5 QUESTIONS ASKED BY ETEM - PHILLIPPE FOUCHÉ, SAOTA ARCHITECTURE & DESIGN

Mon, 10/25/2021 - 12:50
5 QUESTIONS ASKED BY ETEM - PHILLIPPE FOUCHÉ, SAOTA ARCHITECTURE & DESIGN

Take on the role of prophet and tell us how you see the city of the future 50 years from now? What will be the architecture then?

There is an interesting saying that it is easier for a person to be a prophet outside their own village. I am from Cape Town, from the southern part of South Africa, which is a relatively small town, and with my team, we have the privilege of being able to take on the role of "prophets" by looking at the big cities abroad and getting inspired. I am not an expert on urbanism and it is difficult for me to predict what technology can bring us in the future. But if I have to guess, I think cities of the future will be different ecosystems that allow nature to function within them. This will restore the balance in the environment.

If you can only remember one of your projects – which will it be?

The next one. I'm always chasing my next project and I strive to be better. We are a growing company, currently operating in more than 60 countries and 122 cities around the world. We learn from the different communities we work in and try to become better at interacting with nature and improving our lives in those communities.

What is your favorite book and what are you reading right now?

I am currently reading a book by Bjarke Ingels - Hot to Cold, which presents the various options to respond to climate change through specific projects.

What is your favorite movie?

“The Big Lebowski” by the Cohen brothers. This is an old movie that I really like. From recent films, I like sci-fiction productions like the latest Blade Runner.

Who is the architect whose projects inspire you most?

The architect Jacques Herzog, who is one of the creators of the Tate Modern Gallery and has many interesting international projects. He demonstrates an exceptional approach to the place and how the project should connect with it, which inspires me.

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