At Fublis, our Design Dialogues series highlights architects and designers whose work pushes boundaries, fosters innovation, and shapes the built environment in meaningful ways. Through in-depth conversations, we explore their creative journeys, design philosophies, and the impact of their work on contemporary architecture.

In this edition, we feature Faire, a practice that seamlessly integrates construction, research, teaching, and political engagement. Rooted in an interdisciplinary approach, Faire’s projects balance technical precision with artistic vision, always mindful of environmental and social contexts. From the material interplay in the Auger project to the delicate preservation of Chanteloup, their work demonstrates a commitment to sustainability, craftsmanship, and spatial storytelling.

Join us as Faire shares insights into their design strategies, ecological renovation techniques, and vision for the future of architecture. Their holistic approach offers a compelling perspective on how architecture can evolve in response to society’s shifting needs while maintaining integrity, sustainability, and engagement with broader cultural and political landscapes.

Faire emphasizes an interdisciplinary approach at the crossroads of construction, research, teaching, and political engagement. How do you integrate these diverse elements into your architectural projects without compromising on design integrity?

Faire: At Faire, we have cultivated an interdisciplinary practice that seamlessly blends construction, research, teaching, and political engagement. This holistic approach is rooted in our belief that architecture is a collaborative art dedicated to transforming and sustaining our environment. By actively participating in various facets of the architectural process—from hands-on carpentry to academic research and pedagogy— we aim to ensure that a rich tapestry informs each project of insights and experiences. This methodology preserves design integrity and fosters a practice deeply engaged with societal and environmental contexts.

Could you elaborate on the design strategy behind the layering of hues and the interplay of materials like oak, terracotta, and beech in the project Auger? How did these choices contribute to the evolving dialogue within the space?

Faire: In the Auger project, the strategic layering of hues and materials such as oak, terracotta, and beech was developed to create a dynamic and evolving spatial dialogue. These material choices were carefully selected for their tactile qualities and their ability, as natural materials, to age well, contributing to a space that evolves over time. The combination of these materials fosters a warm and inviting atmosphere, enhancing the sensory experience of the inhabitants and promoting a continuous interaction between the occupants and their environment.

With the owners’ lifestyle and daily routines in mind, how did you approach spatial orientation and natural light integration? What role did these considerations play in enhancing the overall living experience?

Faire: Understanding the owners’ lifestyle and daily routines was pivotal in shaping the spatial orientation and integration of natural light in the Auger project. Spaces were organised to align with the natural flow of daily activities, ensuring functionality and comfort. Large openings and strategically placed windows were incorporated to maximize the influx of natural light, in the master bedroom, kitchen and dining room in the morning, and playroom and living room in the evening, creating bright and airy interiors that enhance well-being and maximise daylight. This thoughtful design approach not only elevates the living experience but also fosters a harmonious connection between the interior spaces and the external environment.

The Chanteloup project emphasizes minimal interventions while preserving the barn’s original character. What were the key challenges in maintaining this balance, and how did you decide which elements to preserve versus modernize?

Faire: In the Chanteloup project, maintaining the barn’s original character while implementing minimal interventions posed significant challenges. The key was to identify and preserve elements that embodied the structure’s historical essence, such as original wooden beams and stone walls, while introducing modern amenities that meet contemporary living standards. Decisions on what to preserve versus modernise were guided by a respect for the building’s heritage and an understanding of the clients’ needs, resulting in a balanced fusion of old and new that honours the past while embracing the present.

Ecological renovation was central to this project, including the use of lime and hemp for insulation and moisture regulation. Could you elaborate on the environmental and functional benefits of these materials, and why they were preferred over conventional options?

Faire: The ecological renovation of Chanteloup prioritised the use of sustainable materials like lime and hemp for insulation and moisture regulation. These natural materials offer excellent breathability, reducing the risk of mould and enhancing indoor air quality. Additionally, they have low environmental footprints compared to conventional insulation options, aligning with our commitment to an environmentally responsible architecture.

Your research projects explore complex themes like interconnected human and non-human systems. How does this research influence your practical design choices and material selections in everyday architectural practice?

Faire: Faire’s research projects delve into the intricate relationships of our social ecosystems, exploring themes of interconnectedness and cohabitation. This research informs practical design choices by encouraging the selection of materials and construction methods that are environmentally sustainable and promote biodiversity. For instance, understanding the ecological impact of certain building materials can lead to choices that support local ecosystems, thereby fostering a symbiotic relationship between built and natural environments. This research-driven approach ensures that their architectural practice not only meets human needs but also contributes positively to the broader ecological context.

In the Ségur project, you used three sculptural wooden structures to define space while maintaining fluidity. What inspired this design approach, and how did you balance functionality with artistic expression in these bespoke pieces?

Faire: In the Ségur project, the inspiration behind the use of three sculptural wooden structures was to define distinct areas within an open-plan layout while preserving a sense of fluidity and openness. These bespoke pieces serve functional purposes—such as storage or seating—while also acting as artistic elements that enhance the aesthetic appeal of the space. Balancing functionality with spatial expression was achieved through meticulous design and craftsmanship, ensuring that each piece contributes both practically and visually to the overall environment.

The project showcases a meticulous contrast of materials, including okoumé and birch plywood, fluted glass, and granite. What was your thought process behind this palette, and how did you ensure harmony between these diverse textures and tones?

Faire: The material palette in the Ségur project, featuring solid ipé and beech, and okoumé and birch plywood, fluted glass, and granite, was chosen to create a harmonious contrast of textures and tones. The warm hues of the wood complement the cool, sleek surfaces of the glass and granite, resulting in a balanced and cohesive aesthetic. This thoughtful selection and combination of materials enhance the sensory experience of the space, providing visual interest and tactile richness that contribute to the overall ambiance.

Looking ahead, how do you envision the role of architecture evolving in response to the changing needs of society, and how is your firm preparing to shape and adapt to this future?

Faire: Looking ahead, Faire envisions architecture playing a pivotal role in addressing the evolving needs of society, particularly in the realms of sustainability, community engagement, and adaptive reuse. The firm is preparing to shape and adapt to this future by continuing to integrate interdisciplinary approaches, continuing to develop projects as architects and carpenter, to research, to teach, but also to boost a strong political engagement. To that extent, we are part of the board of the Syndicat de l’Architecture and the Branche Architecture. We are also members of the UIA (Union Internationale des Architectes) and the CAE (Conseil des Architectes d’Europe, within which we work towards a better recognition for architecture as a whole.