6 Jun |
Interview with Javier Barba![]() |
photo: AD
The Spanish architect Javier Barba is one of the leaders of the Green Movement. His architecture is based on the concept of integrated architecture, which is architecture that is respectful of nature and its resources. Named to Architectural Digest list of top 100 interior designers and architects in the world, Javier Barba tries to incorporate photovoltaic panels and geothermal power into every project. He makes the first drawings by hand with his Caran d’Ache pencil and his Caran d’Ache watercolors.
photo: BC estudio
How would you describe your own style?
Respect towards nature and integrated architecture.
What was the moment when you knew you would be an architect?
I am the fourth generation of architects and I never doubted becoming one.
Which are your favorite architects from the past?
Frank Lloyd Wright.
What are the most amazing buildings you’ve seen?
The Parthenon, the Coliseum, Naveta dels Tudons, some of the houses of Frank Lloyd Wright, some Renzo Piano projects, the Mies Van der Rohe Barcelona pavillion among others.
Your houses look like a part of the landscape. How do you achieve this?
By initial visits to the land, which is where inspiration appears, and if it’s possible spending a few days at or near the land to feel the energy, the winds, the views, the stones, the trees, smells, and after getting a distant perspective from the land and seeing how a project would be seen from other places.
photo: BC estudio
How do you complete a project from the start to finish?
It all starts with getting to know the client to see his needs and with the visit to the land. After that the process follows in consecutive phases when the project is discussed with the client and it evolves as it is developed.
And the building you wished you’d designed?
More than a “building”, the Mesa Verde Anasazi settlement.
Your favorite writers?
Herman Hesse, Nietzche, Ortega y Gasset.
What do you consider to be your greatest achievement?
Popularizing in a certain way green architecture and integrated architecture in Spain and the respect towards vernacular architecture in the different countries in which we work.
What does success mean to you?
The client’s satisfaction after finishing the project, either if it is residential or a more public space. Fortunately this occurs often. Also when a project is finished and somebody says that the building looks as if it has always been there. That means that the integration in the landscape has been a success.
What are the most important design elements?
The orientation of the project on the site, the pre-existing elements on the land such as trees, water, rocks and the views.
Kommentare
25 Kommentare zu “Interview with Javier Barba”
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Just send him to my house
Happy new week, Maria!
Kristin xo
What an amazing architect!
I love your architecture updates!
(You´ve got an award in my blog)
I admire the importance he gives to integrating each project into the landscape and the existing architecture. And that’s right: the house in the images above just looks as if it’s been there forever. ps: have you watched the Roland Garros final?
Love this interview Maria, it’s especially nice to read about how he visits the places he’s trying to imbue into his work, such a nice detail. His inspirations are also all my favorites–so this was a wonderful chance to learn about a new architect–thank you! Hope you’re off to a happy new week!
xo Mary Jo
Love how he is influenced by nature and the surrounding landscapes!
xo
Alexa
Ein interessanter Mann !!!
so nice to read that Maria really beautiful too have a good week fay xx
Thank you for introducing me to Javier Barba, I am now a fan! I truly admire his work and everything he puts into his designs. I love the natural look and think He ROCKS!
Take care,
I’m impressed with his integrating the outside elements (landscaping) with the project. And, I love when a structure looks as though it has been there for many years!
Hi, Maria!
Mesa Verde Anasazi is quite an amazing inspiration, don’t yu think?
He is fabulous.
Wish you a blessed week.
Hugs
Tereza
I love his response to “What does success mean to you” – integration in the landscape, yes! Thank you for a great interview Maria and many hugs!
this is a really great interview…and frank lloyd wright is one of my favorites as well, i’ve read some books about him – he had a really interesting life!
What a talent! I am always fascinated with homes that blend into the surrounding scenery!
I’m very supportive of design integration! And, I absolutely love when a structure (commercial or residential) appears to have been there all along! His design is beautiful!
Most impressive interview with a truly impressive architect and human being. Congratulations! xo
Spectacular. Wonderful post and interview of an extraordinary, interesting gentleman and talented architect… wonder to what degree he incorporates what he learned from his family of architects and how they influence his work…
Cheers,
Pam and Oded
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Great interview Maria and beautiful images too. Thanks for sharing, Stephie x
Great interview!
I love his approach of incorporating nature into the design of the home. What better inspiration can there be than the the wind, the views, the smells…
integrating architecture with the landscape is such a beautiful and commendable approach..more so in today’s world..lovely interview, maria..have a wonderful day..xx meenal
wonderful interview!!! such a great guy!!!!
xxxx
White is so simple yet clean and sophisticated!! Thanks for your sweet comment on my blog!
This is truly on how to take the best from the landscape. Great perspective
have a look at more inspirations:
http://www.bocadolobo.com
I always come to this blog when I look for javier barba!
Nice interview!
http://www.bocadolobo.com