A beautiful building is not an architect’s only goal. We want to solve problems, and to do this we need to design with purpose. At Veld Architects, our purpose is governed by who our clients are and what they are about. This allows us to design intentionally with function at the core.
But there is another, equally important, driving force behind what truly gives our projects deeper meaning, and that’s redemptive purpose.
We need our projects to bring about positive change for people and the environment. That’s the building blocks of good architecture.
Designing with such a strong purpose is impossible without a set of core values that underpin it. We happily share our six core values with you over this two-part blog series.
RELATED: DESIGNING HOMES WITH PURPOSE.
Core Value #1: Designing with integrity
integrity
/ɪnˈtɛɡrɪti/
(noun)
” the quality of being honest and having strong moral principles”
You can’t cut corners in architecture. First off, the very safety of the building’s occupants depends on integrity. But it also creates trust between the firm and the client and leads to more durable and sustainable buildings.
That’s why architects have to adhere to a code of conduct and standards. At Veld Architects, we ensure that the design process and outcomes not only align with ethical principles but also respects and responds to the surrounding environment.
But integrity in architecture goes beyond the literal meaning. It also means working honestly with raw materials, light, space, ventilation and colour.
In practice, architectural integrity includes:
- Exposing structural elements to showcase the building’s construction.
- Using local, sustainable materials.
- Designing to complement the local landscape.
- Being transparent when communicating design choices to clients.
Core Value #2: Designing with authenticity
authenticity
/ˌɔːθɛnˈtɪsɪti/
(noun)
“the quality of being real or true”
Authenticity in architectural design is the ability to genuinely express a building’s purpose, context, and materials. It’s about creating structures that avoid artificiality or imitation. Simply put, it is the creation of buildings that just feels “right”.
By implementing authentic design, architects can create meaningful spaces that instil a sense of place (genius loci) and help to connect people (on a deeper level) with the building.
At Veld Architects we address this value by:
- Using local materials and building techniques.
- Implementing climate-responsive and resilient strategies.
- Preserving historical elements in renovations.
- Designing spaces without unnecessary ornamentation.
- Integrating traditional cultural elements in contemporary ways.
Core Value #3: Designing with joy
joy
/dʒɔɪ/
(noun)
“a feeling of great pleasure and happiness”
Why just live or work in a building when you can thrive in it?
That’s where joy in architecture comes in. At Veld Architects, we intend to create spaces that evoke positive emotions, uplift spirits, and enhance creativity, productivity and overall well-being. We achieve this by including elements that stimulate the senses, prioritise human experience and bring in nature as much as possible.
Practically speaking, we bring about joy in design by:
- Ensuring an abundance of natural light and views of outdoors.
- Including natural textures and materials that invite touch.
- Integrating art, interactive elements, or culturally-important features.
- Adding biophilic design elements like indoor gardens or water features.
- Including thoughtful details that surprise and delight.
It makes us happy if our buildings can make occupants feel content. It is as simple as that.
Join the VELD Lifestyle.
Make your next design a VELD design.
xxx
Love,
Gill
