Another interview regarding the exterior architectural design of Algerian houses, with Sara Refes, an architect with a background in project management and a passion for design who delivers a unique combination of artistic talent and technical expertise.
Due to Sara’s 10 years of experience as an Architect designer, we will know more about her perspectives about the Algerian houses, and about the reality behind the dull designs of the Algerian houses.
Why did you choose the field of architecture?
In fact, it was not a direct choice, but on the other hand, I had inclinations for everything that is art and history, I fell in love with this field when I got to know it. However, I hope that the Ministry of Education will make a change in directing students from the first year of high school towards their areas of passion, instead of waiting for the first year of university, and this is to ensure good knowledge and technical formation.
As an architectural designer, can you give us what is the relationship between beauty and architecture?
When we say architecture, we immediately think of beauty. Architecture is characterized by beauty when it has a meaning. I see that the relationship between beauty and architecture lies in perfection and benevolence.
What does the architectural designer mostly struggle with in our country?
I don’t like the word struggling, so I will replace it with diligence and effort. In our country, the architect seeks and strives to improve this field to the best. There are many obstacles for sure; including the mentality of the Algerian client, which sometimes impedes creativity, and the material conditions that do not serve the development of architecture in the country. I think that this is what the architect should study before any project. Because in the end we are designing for an Algerian in an Algerian environment.
What can you say about the designs of Algerian neighborhoods? In other words, how would you describe the exterior design of buildings and houses?
Frankly, the design of Algerian neighborhoods is currently not related to architecture. The Algerian exterior design of buildings and houses cannot be described as engineering design because it is a result and not a design. But the architect must respect it and work to develop it for the better. The exterior design is currently suffering from neglect and the absence of identity. I say this in general, but there are some efforts by architects and project owners, who work to respect and develop the exterior design.
Individuals, coming from dead neighborhoods without beauty, green spots, or spaces. With ruined sidewalks, street lights, broken streetlights and iron black doors; this type of neighborhood is said to affect their mood and personality. What is your opinion about that?
This definitely affects, in the end, the architectural design works to create an environment that suits the human being, every space or space used by the human being must meet the conditions of physical, psychological and intellectual comfort. This is what makes the place livable both inside and outside.
The Algerian house type is similar to a box next to a box, and what is said to be “a villa” is a larger box that has no charm. What do you think is the reason for this kind of lackluster design?
The reason for this type of construction is the decline of Algerian society in all fields, economic, social and intellectual. Civilization is based on the level of development of architecture for any society. This must be seen in our country because it is impossible to build a civilization at the current level. There was a period when the Algerian was not interested in engineering. Thus, he left the building to do whatever he wanted, but now we see a change. The Algerian is consulting the engineer for technical reasons first, then for aesthetic reasons. As for the prices of the construction worker, I think the Algerian should think carefully about this issue, because if the price is higher, this means quality, and if we say quality, then this means the sustainability of the building.
Neighbors tend to imitate the facade of each other’s house. Do you think the owner’s mindset leads to a repetitive approach to home style design
Imitation in all cases indicates laziness of the imitator, it also indicates his closure on the environment in which he lives, as well as the absence of the intention to develop and improve.
All these qualities are what characterize the mentality of the owner, and this reflects negatively on the aesthetics of architecture in our country.
Are architects not professional and creative when it comes to their work? If so, what is the reason in your opinion?
Yes, the lack of creativity and professionalism of some architects in our country must be acknowledged. There are several reasons, including selfishness, the absence of continuous scientific research, and the absence of a collective vision.
Are poverty and corruption factors in the existence of this kind of dull neighborhoods? If so, how?
The economic situation and corruption are among the reasons for this decline, as was added poor management and discipline, and the absence of penalties. The presence of these incomplete neighborhoods is also due to the lack of technical and financial study of the project. For example, if we decide to build a small house that suits the capabilities of the owner, then it will certainly be completed, but on the condition that there is a strict law from the technical body of the municipality in case the owner exceeds the agreed construction period on the ground and not on the sheets.
Another issue is, some landowners or architects, instead of renovating the beautiful antique designs, such as Chaoui or Kabyle style of architecture, Algerians would demolish and replace them with the popular “Algerian modern half-done building style” with red bricks, grille rusty windows, and metal black doors making it look like institutional buildings instead of houses. As a fresh architect designer, what would you change about that style of house designing? What would you add or do to make the neighborhood look more pleasant to live in?
As a certified architectural designer, I am currently working on projects that require me as a development designer. I prefer the exterior design over the interior design, because at the present time it is what our country needs; while the interior design remains an objective work that changes from one person to another. This pattern cannot be changed through each project alone, but it changes through overall planning, planning of neighborhoods and cities, and then comes after that, in the second degree, the design of houses and other projects.
Where do you see Algerian architecture 10 years from now?
As a professional in the profession of engineering design, I am the first to be optimistic. I see that the future of Algerian architecture is improving; I do not say development. There are individual efforts, whether from engineers or project owners. I hope that these efforts become collective and turn into a positive future vision.
How can an architect in a third world country help make the Algerian neighborhood vibrant and beautiful? Do you have any new ideas or projects that would make it so? If yes, can you share it with us please!
The architectural designer in the third world like other designers in other worlds, we design for people, whether in a rich or poor environment. The Algerian neighborhood can be promoted for the better if we first respect the Algerian individual with his traditions, identity, and financial capabilities. As for the ideas that I am working on and that help solve the problem that I mentioned earlier, it is working on the external preparation of the houses. This is my passion now. I do not like studying new projects, because they do not require me to research and develop. As for changing the facades of previously built houses, I find it a challenge and insistence to improve for the better.
