They say there is no way you could get a lover of human sciences to enjoy maths. This may lead some people to believe that artists can never be good with numbers, but Simone de Gale's architectural firm is ready to prove the world wrong.
With a creative process starting from theoretical and mathematical principles, Simone de Gale relies on the classical rules of architecture to reach a harmony with nature, bringing the beauty of art into each project of the firm. To the point that even a mini-city in Tbilisi can look balanced, creative and – most of all – sustainable.
For this Company Spotlight, we've had a chat with Simone de Gale herself, founder of the firm and a passionate architect falling in love with her own craft every day.
How did you get into the industry?
My grandfather was an Architect in the Caribbean and my father and uncles worked in construction in London. I decided to become an Architect at a very young age, 12 years, and I have followed the path accordingly. In addition, my family includes entrepreneurs and I learnt at a very early age how to be a business person.
Where are you based now and who do you work for?
We are based in the most exclusive part of Belgravia, London. We work with top property developers and high net worth individuals.
If you weren’t in your current industry, what would you be doing?
I would be an artist. But in fact, within my industry, I get to perform artistry everyday, so I guess I haven't missed a thing.
Can you explain your creative process?
We work from a set of theoretical and mathematical principles, developing our projects into an exploration of Rhythm, Pattern and Repetition of form and material. Our innovative use of these classical rules of Architecture inform direction, distance, timing and use of Space. We embody an ethos connecting directly to the original Architect, Nature.
Our Style has developed over a number of years with the most prominent projects developed from our theories in Architecture and translating into a Masterplan in Tbilisi, Georgia, on which we are working with Georgian politicians and their largest manufacturing and distribution firm, the Omega Group. Our Spherical Art Gallery concept has evolved into a Patented Materials Technology, which is now incorporated into defence armour, working with the Ministry of Defence UK and Allied forces.
Research and development manifest our style into a beautiful craftsmanship, acknowledging an effervescence of beauty in space through time, a journey on which architecture articulates its language, and which we embrace.
How has technology affected the way you work (if at all)?
Technology has improved our creative process and opened up limitless opportunities for design potentials. We use BIM on all our projects.
What’s the work achievement you’re most proud of?
Our best and largest project to date is Didi Dighomi Mini-City project. This is a mixed use scheme made up of 3000 homes, retail and leisure centre, commercial hub and luxury public park and other amenities. It is based in Tbilisi, Georgia, and we have submitted the project for government approvals. Once permitted, we will proceed to construction.
What’s your one big hope for the future of the creative industries?
I'm not sure about the industry, but from a personal perspective, I just want to continue to engage with our projects and limitless opportunities to create beautiful and innovative spaces all around the world. It is such a pleasure to have an idea in your mind, and then be able to translate that into a real construction.
