Name: Anders Tyrrestrup
Company: AART architects
Position within company: Partner
Website: www.aart.dk
How would you describe your personal design style?
I’m motivated not only by creating beautiful and functional architecture, but also by exploring the ways in which society evolves and changes so that I’m able to adapt architecture to modern life in all its aspects. This is why I rely on an empathetic and research-based design approach. In my work, I strive to meld knowledge of aesthetics and building technology with sociology, anthropology etc. as I seek to develop socially innovative projects that create added value for the clients, the users and for society as a whole. In brief, I’m motivated by creating the space for a good life and improving the social qualities of architecture.
Where does your design inspiration come from?
I’m inspired by the challenges our society is facing today. This means, I’m inspired by working on architecture as a problem-solver and providing architectural answers to the challenges faced by our society. My passion is taking responsibility, looking at things with fresh eyes and making a difference both for the clients, the users and for society as a whole.
In what direction do you feel that design is moving towards in a general sense?
Unfortunately, many buildings today are designed as purely iconic buildings that fight each other for attention. A cityscape filled with such iconic buildings where “the daily life follows the form” (and not the other way around) is likely to alienate people. Instead of focusing on this craving for attention, it is important to focus on the people who inhabit the buildings and the urban space. Because architecture is not about shallow forms and sparkling facades. It is about enriching people’s lives by designing safe, sound and stimulating spaces. It is about improving people’s well-being and capturing their imagination by exploring the balance between practical functionality and emotional appeal.
If you could offer one piece of advice when it comes to design, what would it be?
Don’t create architecture that shouts. Create architecture that listens – to the clients, the context and the users. At the end of the day, architecture is about leaving behind a legacy of wonderful experiences for the people who inhabit the buildings and the urban space.
How important are The International Hotel and Property Awards as recognition of talent and achievement?
The International Hotel and Property Awards are very important as the awards highlight specialist skill within the industry to future clients and promote a sound and stimulating criticism as the voting is open to industry professionals and design enthusiasts from all over the world.
What projects are you currently working on?
Currently, I’m working on several school building projects in Scandinavia, including the 11,000-sqm Voss Technical College which will be located in scenic surroundings and designed as Norway’s largest school built of solid wood. The technical college will provide a strong sense of school community as it is based on a clear architectural concept where the vocational areas stretch out from a large common square towards the green landscape. Furthermore, I’m working on the expansion of the Musholm Bay Holiday Resort in Denmark. The holiday resort is located at the beautiful Danish coastline and pushes the potential of accessible architecture. In fact, it is recognised as one of the world’s most accessible holiday resorts for people with disabilities.