In Practice: Anders Holmberg Arkitekter
Swedish architect Anders Holmberg tells AVOLT why durable materials, simple shapes matter in every studio and home.
In 2007 Anders Holmberg started his office with one aim: design houses that last. We visited him to talk sustainable materials, pink kitchens and why a square-shaped extension cord now sits on his desk instead of under it.
We want buildings that survive for a really long time
“We use good materials that can manage time and wear and tear. We also stay in the project from the first sketch to the finished building so that we can take ownership of everything between cost and construction."
"In Sweden architects have become consultants; we try to keep the older role where the architect is responsible for the whole process.”
The three-year process
“I love the whole two-and-a-half to three-year process. People think architecture is quick; it isn’t. The best moment is still the first time I see a wall I drew on paper standing full-size on site.”
Good design is “not over-designed”
“Good design looks simple. It is much harder to make something simple than to add more. Only simple design survives over time.”
Villa Olson, the next-level concrete house
Function versus feeling
“If we designed only for pure function every building would be boring. Sometimes you need a high ceiling or a roof light nobody ‘uses’. The same goes for products: a white car or white pants are impractical, yet we choose them because they make us happy.”
Why Architect Anders Holmberg Ditched Ugly Extension Cables for AVOLT Squares
"Extension cords are usually hidden on the floor, but AVOLT created a Square that’s meant to be seen. I can place it on the table, and it fits perfectly with both my studio and my pink kitchen at home. For the first time, the power source feels like part of the interior, and it's made from recycled plastics"
