WORDS Celeste Jacobs
Get to know the Cape Town-based architect a little better here. Jane Visser shares some of her passions and interests that have grown over her 27-year architectural practice.
Which of your previous projects are you particularly proud of?
That’s a bit like asking who’s your favourite child! I’m proud of our unique solutions to the particular challenges of every commission – from a tiny home on a tight budget to a complex heritage or environmentally sensitive property. However, I am very proud of our design for the Science Visitors’ Centre for the Southern African Large Telescope at Sutherland – a giant disc submerged in the landscape.
Can you tell us more about how you’re a part of the VIA TV series, Die argitekte, and what it is about?
Die Argitekte is a series that shows you how various architects’ homes and work reflect their thoughts in architecture and references an influential building – it’s interesting to see what inspires others!
What inspired you to become an architect?
I think architecture’s about noticing, wondering about and feeling the world around you – I’ve always been fascinated! And, like many architects, I grew up with architects in my family
Whose work influenced you or helped foster your love for architecture?
It’s an endless list! Francesco Borromini, Carlo Scarpa, Sigurd Lewerentz, Alvar Aalto, Louis Kahn, Frank Lloyd Wright, Luis Barragán, Renzo Piano, Peter Zumthor, Álvaro Siza, Rafael Moneo and thousands of nameless makers of beautiful old buildings and urban spaces. Locally, Jack Barnett and Gawie Fagan.
How would you describe your philosophy and approach to architecture?
I like to have a conversation with the client and study the site to develop a good brief. I think an architectural solution needs to fulfil the brief, appropriately respond to its context, be practical but also be surprising, poetic and uplifting!
What drives you to continue working in the field? Has it changed what inspired you to start?
I didn’t consciously choose architecture with enough knowledge of what architecture is! However, I’m glad I did. It’s a lifelong training and fulfils my curiosity about the world – there is just not enough time… My understanding and enjoyment of this way of thinking and making grows and changes all the time.
What are you looking forward to next?
The next commission. Each new client and site opens up a new avenue of new and interesting experiences!
If you missed Die Argitekte, you’re in luck and can still watch the repeat on VIA TV (channel 147) from Mondays to Thursday at 16:30.
Love this series? Check out our interview with Jan Smit who also features on Die argitekte.
