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.

The firm is good at retaining the original elements and structures, and adding new and modern elements to create an interesting dialogue between old and new buildings. At the same time, they are skilled in combining the original characteristics of the site to design, retaining the original charm and endowing it with a contemporary aesthetic, so as to enhance the convenience of the use of architectural functions and unique aesthetic experience.

Yinjispace：What is the source of the studio name?

Naso：I didn’t want to have a studio name but it was an impossible path, a very close friend suggested my nickname (naso) and it just clicked. That’s how it all happened.

What do you get from the work experience with Legorreta in the early stage?

Naso：I was a student back then without any work experience, it was incredible and surreal to have crossed paths with Ricardo. I had the opportunity to listen to many conversations regarding his thoughts on architecture and his personal life, this lead to understand architecture as a projection of oneself.

Yinjispace：We know that you are also a university teacher. What's the difference between teaching and doing?

Naso：With teaching you get the opportunity of continuous experimentation and exhausting architectural dialog. In doing you have a client a budget and loads of constrains.

Yinjispace：Your projects are harmonious and natural. How to have a comprehensive view of elements in the concept stage?

Naso：We are always searching to give simple design solutions to complex spatial problems. Sometimes it can be a tough road because everything has to be thought many times, but as a result there is always something magical happening regarding the design spatial qualities.

Yinjispace：Where do you find inspiration?

Naso：By analyzing things that challenge thought it could be anything (images, books, music, films, events, nature, conversations… etc).

Yinjispace：Do you know anything about oriental design?

Naso：I only know oriental design through books, articles and films. I haven’t had the opportunity to travel to the east, and I know it’s going to be massive source of inspiration.

Yinjispace：Is there any changes in your design during the pandemic situation?

Naso：To understand our responsibility as architects because space has the capacity to challenge its inhabitants for better or worse.