ANGLES
We would like to explore other architectural typologies , in particular , churches and temples , or concert halls . We look for working methods which trigger resonance among the different types of communities we work with by way of combining place and atmosphere .
What is a material you wish more architects should use ?
More than specific materials , we think architects should consider combining the usage of more local materials together with contemporary ones . It is important to explore and discuss chemistry between these two types of materials as their interplay can add more texture and character to spaces .
What do you want to champion or bring to public consciousness about vernacular architecture in China ?
We ’ d like to heighten appreciation of the singular and context-responsive brand of traditional vernacular architecture that we have in western China ; it is a completely poetic tectonic system that marries complicated topography and the social character of its subcultures . It is centered on human relations ( social structure ), the wild ( unorthodox ), poetics ( moments and scenes that bring back memories ) and the geographical relationship between mountains and rivers .
This we interpret into the contemporary setting by emphasizing body perception , dealing with the relationship between man and nature in a formalistic and emotional approach . We are trying to redevelop the essence reflected by these traditional vernacular spaces with the prevailing technical systems while addressing contemporary needs . We hope our end-users feel a connection towards culture and place by experiencing our spaces .
With this team we feel we can achive originality and construction quality for large and medium-sized projects . In this environment , the lead architect can easily communicate and discuss with each and every designer face-to-face .
Is there a typology that you ’ ve always wanted to do but haven ’ t ? Why this in particular ?
What do you want your end users to gain from their interaction with your architecture ?
We hope the people who experience our architecture can obtain the genius loci of a place , as well as develop a sense of community .
To view more of West-Line Studio ' s contemporized ode to vernacular architecture , visit their website at china-west-line . com
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