L'Architettura 'es sueno'?
Architecture by Alfonso Femia
Photography by Stefano Anzini
“Architecture exists in solidarity with history, which is in our conscience, even as a sort of future history. History is rich, and rather than impoverishing it we must confront it, admitting our need to create a complex universe. Rather than invent we must reunite visions, memories, expectations, and dreams and enrich reality.”
“Connection and exploration. Doubt vs certainty. Answers vs questions. Nonsense vs reality. Rules vs imaginary realism. Projection into the future or responsibility. Giving form to knowledge and skill in order to share them. Architecture transcends building, Kant would have called it a “mathesis universalis” that requires as much thought as it does technique.”
“A building is a physical object with an ability to create connections. Each generates its own language and its own music. Architecture requires perceptive emotions, harmony with the environment, with urban reality and those who inhabit it, and with the legacy and mythos of the territory.”
“The architect isn't the creator of the universe, he doesn't fight against the world to impose his vision. Instead, the architect generously unites similar energies to develop inclusive projects”
“Adolf Loos did his time. Decoration isn't a crime, it isn't ostentation. Details are an important part of every project. Decoration always has a reason, decorating with materials that amplify the architectural narration is vital to ward off kitsch and superficiality. It is moderation and exaltation.”
“The choice of materials should in no way be connected to current trends. The material is the active ingredient which allows escape form the flattening force of repetition and indifference. It makes architecture unique and recognizable, the art of connecting with our emotions. Attention to detail is critical.”
“Architecture is never born fully formed and clad in weapons, like Athena from the head of Zeus. There are circumstances and needs to be weighed and bargained with, most of all the needs of people and of territories, from the inhabitants to the scenery. There are compromises and negotiations. The architect must accept the role of orchestra conductor, bringing together sometimes dissonant voices to create a single work.
“As an architect the first step is accepting the small size of your role, if the harmony of the project depends on it. Simplify, accept society's metamorphosis, tie yourself to the territory as it exists in the present, renouncing any form of aggression. Being fragile does not equate to being weak. We are eternal, fragility is our essence. We must build worlds, not destroy them.”
“To fight for what is best, despite the circumstances, to adapt and give it your all, putting your vision in the service of the project.”