PLACES: Discover favourite places of different architects, Part II

Where we come from, where we feel good, where we can breathe out and relax – home, a sense of security, space to be ourselves. We need this place. It is essential, specific and shapes us; it’s an expression of our identity. But how do we really define home? Can you design and construct it? Where are our roots? And what does it mean to arrive home?

We asked architects and interior designers about their personal feel-good spots and were impressed with the wide range of favourite places we found out about. They reveal the meaning of design and creativity that determines our living space and our everyday life – whether we’re alone or in the company of others. Dive in with us, renew your strength and be inspired by freedom, enthusiasm, fantasy and relaxation.

team i29
Ouder, Amstel, NL

www.i29.nl

1. WHAT DOES HOME MEAN TO ME?

In a professional context, that would be our very own studio! We started working from this location as soon as we finished school so this place has both a professional and an emotional place in our minds.

2. TOWN OR COUNTRY?

We prefer towns.

3. CAN YOU CONSTRUCT ‘HOME’?

‘Feeling at home’ happens when people feel comfortable and the space around them is understand-
able and recognisable. In our vision it’s important to make the physical space around us clear, effective and surprising. Therefore, we deliver work that stands out for its simplicity.

Prof. Sabine Keggenhoff

KEGGENHOFF | PARTNER
Arnsberg

www.keggenhoff.de

1. WHAT DOES HOME MEAN TO ME?

The feeling of being at home is the essence of a highly individual complex structure of lifelong impressions. These include cultural contexts, personal history, experiences and identity debates, and they merge together with questions of perspective and the relationships I have with the people around me. For me, the physical home is, in essence, the classic four dimensions that make up my living and working spaces: Region – Town – District – Street.

2. TOWN OR COUNTRY?

I grew up in the Sauerland region and after studying and working abroad I returned here to focus on both my personal and professional life. When I think about the Sauerland region in South Westphalia, I can’t help but think about nature. In everyday life its beauty and primitiveness are not always as present as I’d like them to be, but I know that they’re firmly anchored in my head and my heart; they’re always a part of me. I’m so glad that I’ve been surrounded by hills, green meadows and even greener forests my entire life. There’s a kind of freedom in the distance and a calmness in the tempo that I wouldn’t want to be without.

3. CAN YOU CONSTRUCT ‘HOME’?

Architecture and interior design have the power to position us within actual built space. They give us a roof, a house, a home. They give us the protection we need. They’re a kind of framework concept for our social activity and directly reflect on our actions in both private and public. As these two areas can be tailored so precisely, they can also have an effect on meaning and identity, and intensify the feeling of home.

Home is: Openness, being inspired, discovering new things, keeping active, a sharp mind, and the careful curation of influences, perspectives and found objects.