Architecture cannot be reduced to any single lens of interpretation. It is not confined to design alone, nor is it merely a technical operation carried out by a sophisticated process of execution. It goes beyond an analysis of lifestyles or a manifesto for environmental preservation. Architecture surpasses the mere summation of the expertise of different disciplines and adheres to a logic of integration.
Architecture is an art that makes us dream. Who hasn't been amazed by a building? A place? Who hasn't thought about becoming an architect? While a bit of intuition is needed to overcome challenges, success largely depends on the iterative collaboration between the client and the design team, as neither holds all the keys to understanding the problems.
Seeking consistency in the multiplicity of approaches
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Questioning the brief with its spatial implications is the starting point. The quality of the spaces and their use is obviously essential. But discovering aspects which were not initially considered is also an issue for the quality of the building with the different uses that could be made. This can be a question of enriching a program, even quite modestly, or of anticipating a different organisation of the building to allow a change of program with relatively simple adaptations (1).
At the level of a dwelling, this one must be able to function with two types of occupants or two functions (living and working) while enabling a certain level of independence.
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The link created with the environment, the relationship and transition with the public realm, are elements which are concurrent to the formation of a project and which give it all its meaning. If the context is formative of a design, it can in turn enrich and further its meaning. This deep link is not of the order of stylistic mimicry but that of the functioning of a whole. This reflection also broadens by recognising the need for a harmonious interaction of construction in a living and diverse environment.
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The link between architecture and material is undeniable. The design process is deepened by the sensitive and astute exploration of the possibilities and characteristics of materials and construction systems: desired goal, appearance, durability, cost, environmental assessment. Considering architecture from the perspective of materials becomes even more crucial, especially with the resurgence of bio- or geo-sourced materials, in a contemporary context where the concept of thermal comfort has evolved. Our research often calls for a critique of existing solutions, including when they appear immutable as a result of regulations, because ultimately ... we observe that the issues are changing. We work upstream with professional federations, manufacturers who find their interest in innovation and specialised contractors.
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The yearning to create is driving the project. It reflects a need for emotion to accompany our places of life. This emotion must be shared, which means that one have to listen to succeed. This common emotion should make it possible to transcend what would otherwise be a simple reaction to reality and an adaptation to constraints.
(1) not requiring heavy intervention. Regulations must be able to evolve in their applications: see our contribution on the subject in the ORF report of May 2018 "Which place for economic activities in urban planning [...]?" p.30 on the subject of fire safety. Questions are pending in relation with city planning control and taxation in the event of a change of destination or use.
