(Paragraph opposite figure 14) RJ, “Bold, modern architecture……developed in combination with the basics of proper solar orientation and site protection,and the responsible use of sensible materials and fine craftsmanship, will have the quality to withstand the tests of time. …….increase the longevity of buildings and decrease the consumption of resources by simply doing a good job with the basics first.” Do you think the experiential characteristic of his projects is in anyway compromised by his fundamental basics?

His projects remind me most of discovering cavernous areas of the Atacama desert, climbing earthen-rock formed vertical caves, and the coolth created inside these areas within an extremely hot, arid climate. It is interesting that the experiential quality of his works do not remind me firstly of other architecture, but instead of nature. His modern boxes have translated into something ageless, and I can see these buildings translating into the type of timeless regionalism still evident through the work of an architect such as Alvar Aalto. His fundamental basics seem to comprise the experiential characteristic of his projects, and to me do not seem in opposition.

“We are continually striving to create architecture that is regionally sympathetic and well grounded in the context and community of its place.” Do you think his use of materials and building form are convincing?

Rammed earth architecture and the contextuality of Rick Joy’s desert buildings are certainly admirable.
I can see a connection in time from native adobe buildings and now with crisp edges and clean metal and glass fixtures. This juxtaposition is incredibly subtle given the material differences, and works fantastically.

The “silence” he and Steven Holl discuss is from the experience of being inside an extension of the natural environment, emphasized through the extensive use of these humble materials. From images of his interior spaces, I see similarities with other successful desert works I’ve visited, including the Earthships in Taos, New Mexico, and Donald Judd’s Marfa, Texas compound of old army barracks at the Chinati Foundationa and his Mansana (The Block). These adaptive reuse and fully sustainable projects are most respectful of the natural environment.