JOIN USWhen you first read about Dr Irena Murray, you tend to think that she would be intimidating. When you meet her, you realise she is anything but that. The architectural historian and curator is actually quite charming.
As she begins to talk, you start to discover the many treasures of architecture waiting to be explored. And by the end of the conversation, you appreciate the process and the beautiful products a lot more. Recently in town to deliver a lecture on world-renowned architect Charles Correa’s work, the London-based Czech expert spoke to Deccan Herald about all things architecture. Excerpts from the interaction:
How did you decide on architectural curation as a profession?
I had previously worked as a language specialist and as a curator of collection items like coins and photos. Over time, I came to realise that I wanted to curate architecture as well. Also, the skills that I had developed in these jobs were connected to architectural curation. To get the necessary architectural skills, I took up a postgraduate programme, which immersed me into the world of architecture. While I did not want to let go of architecture, I also didn’t want to restrict myself to writing alone. This led me to curating architecture as it is represented by its collections that includes photos, drawings, and recordings, among other things.
What exactly does your job entail?
Curation essentially shows how an architect thinks and how the building came to be. While curating, one has to ask questions like ‘Did he stay with the original drawing?’ and ‘Who was concerned with the project’s photos, right from its construction to its final output?’ to find out how the present building design came into being. While we may have different opinions regarding the final output, it’s important to understand how it arrived to its present design. We usually have no idea as to what went into building something, who influenced it, and whether the client was receptive or difficult. In that sense, curating is important; you get to experience every single stage of the entire process. The building’s history is what curators love so much and value.
Views on Bengaluru’s architecture...
From what I have seen so far, it is beautiful. I love the variety and there is also a sense of dynamism on how the space is being used and how the buildings are made.
How different is the process in India as opposed to Europe?
Compared to India, Europe has much less space. Additionally, most buildings are built without any regard to the economy of space there. In India, it is an entirely
different scenario. There is much more awareness about not just the space but also the people here. Space needs to be used economically and effectively in order to help a resident go about one’s day smoothly.
Fusion of European and Indian architectural styles...
The best example that comes to my mind is the British Council building in Delhi, which Charles Correa helped design. It is a beautiful building that has landscaped gardens and loggias. In a subtle and ingenious way, it shows the various cultures and faiths that have contributed to the fundamental mix in India. For instance, on one side you have a banyan tree. Each corner of the building has something that symbolises the Hindu, Muslim and European past of India. All the influences that you see are very subtle. But if you are observant, you can read it as the sum of what India is, which I believe is truly beautiful.
What, according to you, makes for a well-designed space?
First, it’s important to have a central idea and what design element that it is going to carry. Take for instance, the Gandhi Memorial in Ahmedabad. Charles devised a path that would lead from one square to another. This created a sense of openness and was connected to a central meeting place. This can be reached by any path one takes. Second, one needs to pay attention to the climate, which is incredibly relevant in today’s age. This is a very important aspect that cannot be stressed upon enough. Disregarding it would greatly undermine the building. Finally, you need to know who are the users of the building: they can be children, office-goers or hospital staff and patients. With these three aspects in mind, a place can be well-designed.
The qualities of a good architect...
Good architects, for me, are those who:
Are shrewd, keen observers.
Are always watching and thinking about how the building can be built, which enhances creativity.
Are dynamic and proactive in how they approach the building’s design.
Think about the people who are going to use the building, so that they can live a happy, healthy life in harmony with their surroundings.
And what makes a good client?
Being a good client is important. For an architect to have a good client is a gift, as it creates a constructive dialogue. It is also important for the client to be willing to
listen to the architect’s ideas and ask the right questions. This is fundamental as it will help the architect to represent your needs the best way he can. Take for
instance, the Champalimaud Centre for the Unknown in Lisbon, Portugal. If they did not talk to Charles, who built it, it wouldn’t have been as good a building. It is also important for clients to be vocal about what they need. At the same time, they should also listen to what can be possible and what cannot.
Favourite architectural style...
Although I am a modernist, I love the architecture of the 1920s and 1930s, like the ones that were epitomised by Le Corbusier. I love contemporary architecture as well, just as long there’s some interesting work.
Why are there such few women in architecture?
Training to be an architect is a very long and demanding process. This is the primary reason as to why women are few in number. Many women fear the long training as they feel that it might delay their plans of starting a family. While practising and even through the studies, many would have to pull in all-nighters, which may prove to be difficult for many women. It would be a challenge to balance work and home in such situations. Hence, it becomes important to give women the necessary space and conducive conditions that will make it possible for them to take up the profession.