L’Éléphant’s Eye for Design_Jessica Pereira Esteves

Each member of L’Éléphant was challenged to choose only one design object and one architectural work of choice to share. An exercise of synthesis almost impossible, but that illustrates the influences and the tastes of each member of the L’Éléphant team.

Jessica Pereira Esteves Creative Assistant

637 UTRECHT CHAIR, GERRIT RIETVELD, 1935

One of my favorite design objects is the Utrecht Chair, by Gerrit Rietveld. The dichotomy between the separate pieces and the idea of ​​continuity and synthesis of form is fascinating (the arms and legs of the chair are the same element).

FASS SCHOOL AND TEACHER’S RESIDENCE, TOSHIKO MORI, 2019

In addition to the initial aesthetic appeal, the Fass School marked me for having been designed according to the daily needs of those for whom it was built – students and teachers. Starting with the oval shape, designed to facilitate the movement between classes of the few teachers in the school. In addition to meeting this need, it promotes a sense of community among students.

At the same time, attention was paid to vernacular craft materials and techniques. It not only stimulates the local economy, but respects environmental issues. In this sense, a very resistant straw technique was used that ensures effective insulation against the extreme heat of this area of ​​Senegal, allowing classes not to be affected by this climatic condition.