Chris Middleton
What convinced you to become part of the hej.build architectural advisory board?
It makes absolute sense to learn from each other and share knowledge to improve projects. The fresh approach of hej.build and the demanding exchange of experiences among colleagues convinced me to contribute at this point.
With which thematic focus do you hope to contribute to the hej.build architectural advisory board?
In addition to current topics around New Work paired with Hospitality, my focus is on meaningful strategies for revitalizing existing buildings, which can be addressed with exciting combinations of new uses.
What concerns you most in terms of architecture, interior design, or building products at the moment?
I am currently very concerned with the transformation and enhancement of existing buildings as well as the design of experiential access concepts. Even more so when reuse or recycling products can be employed.
What does good architecture/interior design mean to you?
Good architecture or interior design does not distinguish between the disciplines of interior and exterior. A holistic design is developed both from the inside out with the users in mind and from the outside with the environment in consideration. When an innovative concept is complemented by precise details, expressive materials come to the fore, and an authentic story is told, then I would speak of good architecture.
Is there a current highlight or an all-time favorite project you would like to tell us about?
The project »House of Knowledge« in Bochum is one of our current highlight projects. It involves combining the city library with a public market hall in the former central post office building. The existing structure is complemented by a new build. In addition to the adult education center and the unification of Bochum's universities, a rich array of public interior spaces is being created, inviting more than just one target group to stroll around. The terraced roof with a rooftop bar and impressive views rounds off the experience. What particularly excites me here is the diversity and the exciting access through the open levels of an impressive space. From Kinzo's side, we are overseeing the interior design in close cooperation with Cross Architecture and are currently in the execution planning phase.
