Q&A with Serquis + Associates Landscape Architecture
Get to know Serquis + Associates...
Where do you find inspiration when starting a new project?
“We’re inspired by: just looking out the window and taking in the Natural landscape; the opportunity to collaborate with people to realize new spaces; feelings and the possibility of experiential learning through design.”
Where did you grow up? Has that had an influence on your design aesthetic?
“At S+A we are as diverse as our aesthetics, we’re from New Mexico and B.A. Argentina.
Our cultures influence material choices and the intense passion we put into our projects.
The minimalism of the our natural landscape teaches us that less is more; this lesson is
embedded within our design aesthetic.”
What inspired (most excited) you about this year's theme / house?
“We were most excited to explore the historical aspects of Hacienda architecture.
We based our concept on the historical and contemporary functions of the hacienda.
In our practice, we aim to frame the house within the outdoor space—exploit the
interconnected interior and exterior environments where families create memories,
their histories.”
Is there a design rule you love to break?
“We are by nature rule breakers. In design, the plan is king. Although it is a super useful tool,
we love to consider it flexible when on site. The beauty in construction comes when were able
to break away from the plan when the site or materials present new opportunities; colors, shapes, butterflies and bees are all welcome to influence us!”
If you were reborn as a piece of furniture or decor object, what would it be? and why?
“We all find value in specific elements of the design process. Israel will be reborn as AutoCad
because after many years of use, the program has become permanently embedded in his DNA! Rachelle wants to be reborn as a pathway so she can observe how people deviate from prescribed paths to make their own. Solange will be reborn as a bird, who inherits the gift of longevity, migrating to and from great climates, and the ability to learn the way through guiding others.”
Is there a design rule you love to break?
“We are by nature rule breakers. In design, the plan is king. Although it is a super useful tool,
we love to consider it flexible when on site. The beauty in construction comes when were able
to break away from the plan when the site or materials present new opportunities; colors, shapes, butterflies and bees are all welcome to influence us!”
If you were reborn as a piece of furniture or decor object, what would it be? and why?
“We all find value in specific elements of the design process. Israel will be reborn as AutoCad because after many years of use, the program has become permanently embedded in his DNA! Rachelle wants to be reborn as a pathway so she can observe how people deviate from prescribed paths to make their own. Solange will be reborn as a bird, who inherits the gift of longevity, migrating to and from great climates, and the ability to learn the way through guiding others.”
What would be your dream project?
“Any project that connects people with their outside because all you need is NATURE!”
Finish the sentence: Every room needs _________.
“Potential, Possibility, and the refreshing feeling of a brisk breeze.”