I like entertainment and think mastery is good, though I don't feel like a master. If a theme means having a story that's legible, then that's certainly what we do. But we don't treat design as an add-on layer.

The quote "I like entertainment and think mastery is good, though I don't feel like a master. If a theme means having a story that's legible, then that's certainly what we do. But we don't treat design as an add-on layer," by David Rockwell, highlights his approach to design and entertainment. Rockwell, a renowned architect and designer known for his work in theater and entertainment environments, emphasizes the importance of creating cohesive and understandable themes within his designs. His perspective on mastery suggests that while excellence in design is important, he doesn’t view himself as a distant "master" but rather as someone deeply involved in the creative process.

Rockwell asserts that a theme in design is not just a superficial concept but something that serves to make a story or experience more legible and accessible. He emphasizes that the storytelling aspect of design is crucial in making a space or experience engaging and meaningful. This focus on legibility in design ensures that the audience can easily understand and connect with the underlying narrative, whether in a theater production, a theme park, or any entertainment setting.

In the quote, Rockwell also highlights his belief that design should be integral to the experience, not something that is merely tacked on as an afterthought. For him, design should be a central component of the creative process, woven into the very fabric of the story or experience. It is not just about aesthetic appeal but about how design supports and enhances the overall theme and narrative, making it a cohesive and immersive experience for the audience.

In essence, this quote reflects Rockwell’s philosophy of design as a functional and narrative-driven process that enhances the entertainment experience. His focus on mastery is not about achieving perfection but about creating designs that are clear, engaging, and deeply integrated into the storytelling, making them much more than just decorative elements.