The affects of sound on our experience of space
Why is it that each time I get into a trendy restaurant- modern interior, minimalistic style- I get so annoyed by the horrible sound of this space? It seems like one fundamental weakness of (interior)…
The forms we prefer
Even though humans have evolved over 100 of thousands of years into very sophisticated beings we still have some of those pre-historical reflexes in us left. One of them is our preference of rounded, contoured…
Transparency III: towards materiality
This is my third article on transparency, this time I will propose qualities that reintroduce materiality and meaning. The modernist appeal for transparent architecture is the direct result of the aesthetic ideal that there should…
17 words that offer inspiration for any bold creative persuit
I didn’t use to be a big fan of the architectural style of architect Daniel Libeskind. To me it was a bit over the top. But two things changed my opinion, the real experience of…
Color psychology
Color can affect our emotions. At least, that’s the idea you get when you see all those websites stating that pink makes you calm and yellow gives you energy, etc. But when I read Universal…
Marian Bantjes: Follow your heart under the guidance of your ego
One thing that distinguishes ‘design’ from ‘art’ might be that design has to serve a purpose whereas (contemporary) art is more about following and expressing your emotions and thoughts. Design is usually about fulfilling a…
Looking at art
Once in a while I like going to a museum to look at art. There is no particular period I like more over the other. I can just as easily be amazed by a painting…
Steve Jobs: Design is how it works
“In most people’s vocabularies, design means veneer. It’s interior decorating. It’s the fabric of the curtains of the sofa. But to me, nothing could be further from the meaning of design. Design is the fundamental…
Transparency II: how transparency results in less freedom and sociability
Last week I argued for a combination of transparency and mystery. Today I will argue why we should aim for less transparency. Openness, or transparency, has been a hot topic over the past decade. Banks,…
Magic of the Real: Peter Zumthor and the creation of atmosphere
One of my favourite architects is Peter Zumthor. Averse to academic concepts and with a passion for craftsmanship he has produced high quality works that show a love for detail, materials and appeal to all…
