+ Interview «Architecture. Philosophy. Values - The Art of Slowness»
Alex is the architect at DELACAVE in charge of development and design, including houses, furniture, and interior design. Jacky Myers, a member of DELACAVE Architectes' scientific advisory board, invited Alex to sit for an interview.
Jacky Myers
DELACAVE turned down the invitation from the European Cultural Center Italy to participate in the architecture biennial TIME SPACE EXISTENCE in Venice. Why?
Alex
Simple - I refused.
Again, why?
Over the next few years, I'll be leading projects of empirical aesthetics in several different countries. I had to wait nearly thirty years for the opportunity to do this work - I won't interrupt it for anything or anyone. This does not diminish my appreciation for the invitation, which was communicated to the ECC Board of Curators. But I don't seek attention by means of participation for the sake of participation.
How am I supposed to understand that?
That I don’t have to justify myself.
And a big pink «Thank You!» is published on your website. That's at least how it seems: Architecture today is equated with engineering and effect. Do you think that's a mistake?
Standards and values are two different worlds that can be clearly distinguished. I see architecture as a science of structure.
What does that mean?
Having a roof over one's head is something fundamental. Man is a philosophical being, not a commodity - even when he presents himself as such. I approach architecture based on philosophical values, not engineering.
What kind of values are they?
Dignity?
Be specific, please.
By dignity, I don't mean a feeling, but a frame of mind - a clear, strong attitude with respect for other opinions. But let's get back to the question... An architectural structure works for me when I can imagine wanting to die or be born in it.
Is there a God of philosophy?
You're asking whether there's a God of philosophy? He's sitting in front of you (laughs).
Do you consider death and birth in your designs?
How would it be possible not to?
What is the difference between standards and values?
It's the same as the difference between lifestyle and philosophy. Standards are standards - some are successful, and because of that, windows cannot or may not be opened due to misunderstandings about ecology. The idea of gas chambers with a view comes to mind. The value is missing.
The one of dignity.
Ecology, like economy and other fields, is a part of the whole, not the whole itself. If philosophy neglected engineering, the building would fail. It's crucial to stay balanced and at the same time remain uncompromising.
A thin red line.
Wide enough.
Your website says, and I quote «...we work in an interdisciplinary way, especally valuing the seriousness of humour and the urgency of slowness». You don't hear every day that slowness should be a necessity.
…Not that it should be, that it is!
What does that mean?
My thoughts go in several directions at once. It's complex, demands precision, and takes time.
You're saying slow and steady wins the race?
It's a matter of knowledge and discipline to develop, synchronize, and finally synthesize the different tracks and hierarchies. A frantic process in which time stands still, a battle of antagonists and protagonists. In the end, harmony is found in paradox as the sum of slowness.
Which brings us to the aforementioned quote. At the beginning of the interview, you spoke about projects of empirical aesthetics. Can you tell us a little bit about them?
In due time.
You receive invitations from internationally renowned institutions, you build in different countries...
The credibility is in the work.
Thanks for the interview.
My pleasure.
Courtesy Quindoa | New York
Edited by Hannah Hirsh | New York
