Products
All products
Sinks
Faucets
Soap dispensers
Hand dryers
Accessories
Recessed
Replacement parts
Access systems
Custom
Downloads
Datasheet
BIM
2D CAD
3D CAD
Sketch Up
Install manuals
Design
Design Solutions
Our Process
Projects
All Projects
Hospitality
Transportation
Retail
Workplace
Venues
About
Overview
Blog
Sustainability
FAQ
Visit a Showroom
Contact
Request Sample
Contact
Request Sample
Back
Voice of an architect: RIO Architects
09.24.18
In the second instalment of our
Voice of an Architect
series, we speak to
RIO Architects
Interior Designer Gareth Davies. With a minimalist architectural aesthetic, use of
biophilic
elements and focus on green and sustainable commercial construction, we are consistently inspired by the ambitious work of this Cardiff-based architecture practice. Here, Davies reveals why Japanese brutalist architecture informs his work and how a less-is-more approach is his preferred design philosophy.
Who and what inspires you?
I'm inspired by pretty much everything; life inspires me. Travelling is where I get most of my inspiration, from the busy back streets of Barcelona to the colossal towering architecture of Tokyo. I try and seek inspiration wherever I can. In terms of who, I would have to say
Tadao Ando
is a big inspiration on me and my work with his symbolic architecture that creates space with empowering and deep meaning in the hopes of spiritual enlightenment. His use of light and landscape is truly remarkable, where light and shadows cast throughout the day redefine spaces.
What is your favourite building and why?
My favourite building has to be the
‘Church of the Light’
in Osaka, Japan, by Tadao Ando. After thoroughly researching Ando’s theories and architecture during university, I had a new-found appreciation for use of concrete and other simple, raw materials that contrast against the light and shadows of the space. Ando links nature and architecture together by creating focus on nature through picture-frame openings and drawing in light to create spiritual meaning. The use of concrete means that the spaces are void of all ornaments, which creates a meaningful, pure and unadorned space. This building is truly a reinforcement of Ando’s principal focus of simplicity and minimalist aesthetics to create meaningful sanctuaries and places of worship.
A cruciform has been cut into the brutalist concrete to form a cross of light
The worship hall repurposed the scaffolding from the project to create the church pews
What is your favourite project you have worked on and why?
So many to choose from, but the office refurbishment for British charity Care for the Family would have to be my favourite so far. It’s a challenging brief and its Tetris-like requirement of achieving the client's aspirations into an existing building has been my most enjoyable yet. Working with great clients who share an appreciation for design and the finer details has been a pleasure and it has allowed me to create something meaningful and motivating for the staff at Care for the Family.
Do you have a favourite quote?
"Architecture is a visual art and the buildings speak for themselves," by American architect Julia Morgan.
What is the most satisfying part of being an architect?
To be able to improve places where we eat, sleep, work and learn is truly motivational and inspiring for me. To be able to interpret a client’s aspiration into a physical form is a skill I’m truly proud of.
How would you describe your design philosophy?
Simple, functional and inspirational tends to summarise my design style. I look to create designs that meet the needs of the client without complex forms or structures. My hope is that my designs will inspire those who reside within the space. Less is more is very much my way of thinking. Images 1, 2 and 3: ‘Church of the Light’ in Ibaraki, Osaka, Japan by Tadao Ando.
Free download
Please complete the form to access the download.
First Name*
Last Name*
Business Email Address*
Company Name*
Company Location*
Alabama
Alaska
Arizona
Arkansas
California
Colorado
Connecticut
Delaware
Florida
Georgia
Hawaii
Idaho
Illinois
Indiana
Iowa
Kansas
Kentucky
Louisiana
Maine
Maryland
Massachusetts
Michigan
Minnesota
Mississippi
Missouri
Montana
Nebraska
Nevada
New Hampshire
New Jersey
New Mexico
New York
North Carolina
North Dakota
Ohio
Oklahoma
Oregon
Pennsylvania
Rhode Island
South Carolina
South Dakota
Tennessee
Texas
Utah
Vermont
Virginia
Washington
West Virginia
Wisconsin
Wyoming
Profession*
Architect/Interior Designer
Contractor
Wholesaler
Owner/Manager
Maintenance
Others
Are you currently working on an active project? *
Yes
No