Every Sunday morning, we feature a one-on-one Q&A with Jun, our resident curator, exploring the connection between Zen and architecture.
What role does culture play in your architectural designs?
Culture is absolutely central to my architectural designs. It shapes how I conceive, design, and experience spaces. By immersing myself in the cultural context of a location, I aim to create environments that truly resonate with the local community and reflect their unique identity.
This means incorporating traditional materials, local art, and cultural practices into the design process. It’s about honoring and celebrating the cultural heritage of each project. Additionally, culture influences the functionality and aesthetics of a space, guiding decisions on layout, lighting, and spatial dynamics to ensure that the environment is both beautiful and meaningful.
Ultimately, my goal is to design spaces that do more than just serve their intended purpose—they foster a sense of belonging and pride among those who use them. By integrating cultural elements, I strive to create architectures that are not only visually appealing but also deeply connected to the people and their stories.
Photo: Joe Jun Liao