Arthur Casas is a Brazilian architect who graduated in 1983 from Mackenzie University in Sao Paulo with a degree in Architecture. His firm, Studio Arthur Casas was founded 25 years ago in Sao Paulo and in 1999 a New York based office was founded. He is experienced in high end projects in hospitality design, retail, residential projects, and furniture design. It has helped him expand his career and obtain international clientele. Sometimes he is interested in City planning; other times designing household tools like a spoon. He is interested in all areas of architecture, urban planning and design. He was gracious enough to take time from his busy schedule for an interview with Architecture Caribbean. Enjoy!
Architecture Caribbean:
What is your firms design philosophy? What led you to do establish your own firm?
Arthur Casas: I always try to optimize the spaces of project, to have an effective cross-ventilation, orthogonal lines and using green and natural materials.
I already had few clients when I was 20 years old. I never thought working for an office where I couldn’t dominate or lead.
AC: How would you define successful design?
ArthurC: There is only success when there is the consumption desire.
PK Iporanga Residence
AC: What feeds your creativity during the design process; (sketching, building physical models, computer programs); what is your main technique for exploring your designs? ArthurC: I draft and sketch the project by hand using pencils and rulers on my drafting table. After, my team will details and use the computer to draft and create the CGI and 3D models.
PK Iporanga Residence
AC: Does the way of life/ culture in Brazil affect the layout and organization of projects, and cities?
ArthurC: Evidently, the culture of each country influences the design aspect in different ways. The leading aspects driving the design in Brazil for example are related to our climate, the humidity, the security factor is a important one in major cities like Sao Paulo.
AC: Are there any characteristics that define Brazilian Architecture? What conditions, (elements, climate), must you take into consideration when designing a project in Brazil? ArthurC: The Brazilian landscape is beautiful and our architecture requires transparency, cross-ventilation reducing the need for an air conditioning and energy consumption. Our winter is mild, and usually we don’t need heater but Brazil is a big country so each area or region should be treated specifically.
AC: What do you read and/ or do for inspiration? ArthurC:We have at least 10 national and international magazine subscriptions (Dwell, Wallpaper, Interior Design, Architectural Record, Summa are some examples). Also I buy around 10 books per month to both offices. Mainly the need is to be updated to understand the new technologies and other practices throughout the world.
AC: I found your PK Iporanga Project enriching. How does it tie in to your design philosophy? ArthurC: Straight, clean, simplicity and the use of green and natural materials such as wood and stone. Every single material and finishes are eco friendly and local. Also the spaces of the house are related to its landscaping design and outdoor areas, the glazed sliding doors establish the connection between the spaces and the outdoor area allowing cross- ventilation throughout the house.
PK Iporanga Residence
AC: What was the most challenging part of the project? ArthurC: The most challenge part was to keep all the native trees in the property.
AC: Who are your favorite Architects & Planners (Brazilian and International), and what do you admire about their work? ArthurC: This is an extensive and complex question, but I would like to mention Alvaro Siza, Chipperfield, and Taniguchi among many others whose way of designing identifies with my way. I seek architects which their designs have a touch of simplicity, balance and economy of materials.
AC:What about your profession excites you? What advice would you give to students entering your field? ArthurC: Each work is specific and unique; there is no routine in my profession. I would tell students to observe things. A good architect must be observant.
PK Iporanga Residence
AC: Is there a particular space in Sao Paolo, Brazil that you'd take someone to if you were going to show them the perfect space or moment? ArthurC: I like the MUBE, the Museum of Brazilian Sculpture designed by Paulo Mendes da Rocha.
AC: Have you ever been to any Caribbean islands, if yes, where and what do you think of Caribbean Architecture? ArthurC: I have been to Turks & Caicos and the Virgin Islands. Caribbean architecture is even more colorful than the Brazilian, which I like a lot, but there are many similarities
AC: What do you think about Architecture Caribbean and its goal to highlight Architecture, Urban Planning and Visual Arts in the Caribbean and other parts of the world? ArthurC: It is very important to include the three subjects in the same issue, architecture, urban planning and visual arts are closely related with each other.
Architecture Caribbean would like to thank Arthur and Studio Arthur Casas for sharing their work and shedding some light on architecture in Brazil. We look forward to staying in touch with Arthur Casas. Thanks again!
