As a practice, we are constantly trying to insert meaning into our work by drawing from these contexts, both geographical and historical.
This is the context in which Neri&Hu intentionally situates itself. We gained useful insights from a critical examination of the term-its origin, theories surrounding it, applications in different disciplines, and the various architectural extensions and possibilities this ‘reading’ offers us. When we started the firm in Shanghai, we became interested, and almost obsessed, with the notion of nostalgia. Many things must work simultaneously together for change and renewal. It will be one of the many directions for a renewed pedagogy to be developed. LN: This topic will always be pertinent in exploring urban design and architecture since it’s one of the most important issues for cultural continuity and urban renewal. How do you ensure your projects are rooted into the history and environment of their locations? It’s hard to define and explain with specific examples, but time is directly related to spatial understanding and has remained a mystery in science and philosophy, but always fascinating to imagine possibilities of time in design. The most interesting aspect of time, however, is a more abstract reading, which relates to movement, flow, and memory. On the one hand we must consider “usage in time,” and propose design solutions that will stand the test of time, but we also must understand the historic context for each project. RH: Time is always embedded in the background of each design project, whether it’s a product, interior, or architecture. You also frequently work on adaptive reuse or historic renovations. We also want to point students to theories of wellness in design, relating it to technology, construction, and aesthetics. For example, Finland’s Aalto designed the Paimio Sanatorium, employing ideas of total design, wherein the architecture, interior, finishes, color, and furniture and lighting all work together to bring physical and mental wellness to the patients recovering from tuberculosis. Notable projects in the past by masters have focused on their own ideas of wellness, which we often use as reference case studies to show students. We’re sure the next generation is more mindful to these trends. LN: Environmental consciousness is a must in today’s education.
How do you incorporate wellness principles into what you teach students? Is the next generation more mindful of design in relation to wellness, sustainability, and its impact on the environment? You are both professors of architecture and design. This project derived out of that desire to service this cause but adding to the idea of physical wellness a layer of spiritual wellness, which is often neglected in this contemporary life of chaos and busyness. For example, in Suzhou Chapel project, the development came to us originally with a concept of building a community of wellness and healthy living. There are no perfect buildings, interiors, or products. How do you incorporate those principles into your projects? Not only is wellness important, but design has the ability to effectively improve qualities of wellness. Lyndon Neri: There is a significant design dimension to wellness. How do you define wellness in relation to design?
Today, the accomplished pair, who were inducted into HD’s Platinum Circle last year, molds the world of architecture through education (both are visiting professors at Harvard’s Graduate School of Design and Hu is chair of the architecture department at the College of Architecture and Urban Planning at Tongji University) and projects that exemplify design integrity, as they describe it. Partners in both life and business, Lyndon Neri and Rossana Hu founded their Shanghai-based architectural design practice Neri&Hu Design and Research Office nearly two decades ago.
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