Design Responds to Local History and Subtropical Conditions

Metropolis' Think Tank is a series of discussions with industry leaders on important issues surrounding human-centered design and led by Susan S. Szenasy, director of design innovation.  "Design Responds to Local History and Subtropical Conditions" is a panel discussion with Miami architects from Touzet Studio and FIU's Miami Beach Urban Studios. The conversation touched upon the unique conditions architects face when balancing the needs of global retail and tech brands with site-specific limitations and opportunities in Miami's subtropical climate.

"The studio that Carlos and I run, Touzet, is concerned with the type of architecture that has a connection to time and place with a real attention to craftsmanship and local materials. When people see our buildings, we want them to feel that it’s definitely a Miami building. We think we fall short when architecture misses that opportunity." – Jacqueline Gonzalez Touzet, Principal, AIA, LEED AP

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For Carlos, climate and culture are integral to the design process:

"The specifics of the culture...add to a building’s program in such a way that the building really speaks to you in very different ways. The vegetation and the way the sun comes into buildings are some things to consider that can really flavor a space. Miami basically has one large season, but there are subtleties. I love being able to satisfy the program by bringing things to the building that emphasize the experience of being in the space over time." - Carlos, Principal, AIA

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Read the full interview transcript here.