Naso is a new architecture firm in Mexico founded in 2018 by young architect Jose Ignacio Vargas. In their view, physical architecture is not an independent existence, but a community of multi-dimensional relations with objects, space and urban forms.
In this open class, the founder José shared how they understand and think about the architectural design process, opening the sharing with a quote from Rem Koolhaas's Delirious New York, 'Focus on the inside of the building and its effect on the human being.' Through analysing the firm's case studies, history and artists' projects, José presented an informative presentation with his extensive knowledge of architecture. Naso believes that the relationship between architecture and people is both subtle and significant, and that as history continues to evolve, so does architectural design in response to people's needs.
Yinjispace：What architect or artist has influenced you the most?
José Ignacio Vargas：There are many architects or artists who have influenced me. For example, I've delved into the DOGMA Studio, I used to lecture about them at university and I'm a big fan of them myself; my tutor, who inspires me a lot; I've read a lot of Foucault, which is very inspiring to me; and I also really like Peter Zumthor.
Yinjispace：Do you find all your design ideas from previous paintings or buildings or ancient cities of your predecessors? How do you find new artistic values from tradition?
José Ignacio Vargas：For me, to study the past is to see the future. When you understand the history, you will reinterpret it under a future background, which is the daily task for us. The past is like a laboratory, and there are highs and lows that we could learn from. As envisioning the past experience, we get new ways to comprehend everything.
Yinjispace：How do you think China's design should interpret and pass on culture nowadays, and what should we work more on?
José Ignacio Vargas：In fact, China is rich in architectural history. I love Chinese residence and there are so many types, the integration of structures and landscapes, also suburban houses. For example, I have seen a circular suburban residence and the community center-based house type. These could one part of Chinese architecture research for they are well designed and with sensible philosophy. Once you understand the system behind it, then you can use, change and transform it into modern society. So I think Chinese history is an incredible source filled with possibilities.
