Art & Entertainment

Sir Peter Cook

The ace architect talks on his craft

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Sir Peter Cook
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You are called the Picasso of architecture.

I think I’m temperamentally different. As for being a trailblazer, I’d like to think that some of my works do two things: look intriguing and be full of workable applications.

How do you approach each work, and how is each different and similar to others?

Each project has a core message or theme. It may be a function of something, or a subconscious recourse to something I’ve wanted to do, or it could be rhetorical: a ‘drawn statement’.

This is your first show of ‘Drawings and Sketches’ in Asia.

This is the first show in a gallery, though I have academically shown my works before.

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Why did you decide on India?

I hear and read about acceptance to newer architectural styles here. The energy Renu Modi, my gallerist, and Akshat Bhatt of Architecture Discipline brought to the project was great.

What is unique in Indian architecture?

The old architecture is strikingly inventive; the new stuff is not very interesting.

These sketches have been done over 40 years. What architectural changes have you seen over these years?

Worldwide, a tremendous march of technology, lifting building out of the wet-craft period; a potential of computer-controlled milling and buildings ‘grown’ via nanotechnology.

Any suggestions for improvement?

Better architectural education—less teaching by quasi-intellectuals or failed practitioners.

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Which do you think is the best architecturally designed city in the world, or your favourite?

Probably the Neo-Classical part of Helsinki or Edinburgh New Town. Favourite city (apart from London) Santa Monica, California.

Any other passions?

Listening to music, mostly classical, eating and gossiping.

What is next?

I'd like to design a town, build a bit of it.

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