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Having recently received critical acclaim in numerous publications and winning several awards, the work of the British agency Jestico + Whiles, founded by Tom Jestico and John Whiles in 1979, is by no means based on provocation. On the contrary. Although a high-quality approach to architecture and technical innovations are their main strong points, they are active in many areas. Architecture is more than buildings. The associates at Jestica + Whiles – architects Heinz Richardson, John Whiles and Tony Ingram – practice their profession with enthusiasm and in all shapes and sizes: from urbanism to interior design and always with the idea that every building has to be pleasant, efficient and unique.
These major and significant projects often have an even greater influence and become a catalyst for urban rejuvenation. An example of this is the conversion of old warehouses (Burrels Wharf) into residential units that reinterpret the industrial language of historic buildings in every detail and add real urban quality to the neighbourhood. The same meticulous attention to the urban context can be seen in the Royal Quay project which will recreate an entire zone of high-density housing, the extension to the famous Central School of Speech and Drama which was established in 1906. This project takes into account the protection of the environment. A particular feature are the curtain walls of solar glass which have been given three different finishes, making it possible to fragment the interior/exterior interaction and to create attractive shadows at night.
Located near Cardiff, the House for the Future is also designed with environmental protection and sustainability in mind. The architects describe the house as "a natural evolution of the traditional Welsh house, taking into consideration the local conditions, the Welsh climate and the availability of materials". The wooden frame system is however very flexible and can be reproduced just about anywhere.
The firm is also highly specialised in architecture for hotels. The projects are attractive because they are simple, contemporary, dynamic and sophisticated. In Prague, the interior decoration of the Andel's Hotel (architecture by D3A Studio) has been executed in a spirit that never sacrifices comfort or design. Evolving around the theme of transparency, Bohemian glass art inspired the design of the grand entrance hall: high, transparent curtains create light partitions and divide the space into intimate zones.
No matter how they intervene in a project, the architects of Jestico + Whiles prefer conceptual solutions that reinforce the identity, improve the workmanship and meet the many requirements of the renovation.
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Heinz Richardson, John Whiles and Tony Ingram
© photo Jestico + Whiles
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