It was truly delightful to do Q&A with the accomplished Mexico City-based architect, Ludwig Godefroy. His portfolio boasts projects that exude remarkable individuality and character, with his latest project, Casa TO, in La Punta Zicatela, Mexico, standing as a testament to his visionary work. We were captivated by his creations, particularly recent Casa TO (visit https://www.casato.mx/ for a visual journey), and eagerly wanted to learn about his world and aspirations.
Casa TO, Hotel. Architect Ludwig Godefroy. Photographer credit Levi Wells.
Q: When it comes to architecture, what does beauty mean to you?
Ludwig: Beauty, in the realm of architecture, is profoundly subjective. To me, it represents a feeling brimming with emotional resonance. It's that sensation you encounter as you step into a building, an experience intrinsically tied to the interplay of light and space. As architects, we possess the extraordinary ability to craft emotions, forging unforgettable moments etched in the memory of those who experienced our structures. Thus, for me, beauty is the mastery of capturing and eliciting emotions within the very essence of architectural design.
Q: Could you describe your approach to the design process when tackling a new project? What are the first three steps you take?
Ludwig: When embarking on a new project, I adopt an attitude of patient exploration. Time becomes my closest ally, permitting me to immerse myself in understanding and idea generation. The initial phase involves writing – I strive to articulate the precise emotions I aim to invoke. Finding the right words to encapsulate these feelings is crucial. Finally, I focus on defining the concept that underpins that singular, potent idea. Strengthening this initial belief is vital, as it serves as the foundation upon which the entire structure is built. The design process is an inherently unhurried journey, one where ideas must be tested and honed over time.
Q: Are there architects you admire, and if so, what draws you to their work?
Ludwig: Among the pantheon of modern architects, figures like Le Corbusier, Carlo Scarpa, and Louis Kahn resonate deeply with me. Carlo Scarpa, in particular, captivates me through his sensitivity to materials, landscapes, and the rich history of Venetian culture and Japan. Louis Kahn's conviction that architecture begins with the "making of a room" and his profound appreciation for natural light, and evident in projects like the National Parliament House in Dhaka aspects of his work that I find truly inspiring.
Villa Ottolenghi Bardolino- Italy. Bardolino-Italy. Photo by Ake E:Son Lindman
National Parliament House in Dhaka. Architect Louis Kahn.
Q: Nature seems to play a significant role in your life and work. Could you elaborate on this connection?
Ludwig: Nature holds an enduring allure for me. I deeply appreciate the Japanese approach, where the boundaries between indoor and outdoor spaces blur seamlessly. Living in Mexico, this harmony between the built environment and nature is vividly pronounced. Here, we create structures that shield from the sun and rain, allowing the rest to meld with the natural habitat. This integration of light and nature, akin to the lush landscapes of Brazil, exemplifies what I term "tropical brutalism” which is very inspiring to me.
Q: Can you share your design philosophy, if you have one?
Ludwig: My design philosophy revolves around eliminating the unnecessary. I gravitate towards minimalism and brutalism, favoring a select palette of materials – concrete, stone, wood, a touch of glass, and hints of steel. The structural elements are becoming the aesthetics presented in robust manner. I eschew designs that won't stand the test of time, always contemplating how natural patina will gracefully settle upon the structure, evolving it into a timeless entity. My aim is to craft structures that span generations, avoiding the need for frequent refurbishment – a testament to my desirable standards.
Q: In three words, how would you like to be remembered as an architect?
Ludwig: Contemporary, uncompromised, and generous. My passion lies in creating spaces that offer enjoyment, comfort, and a sanctuary for well-being.
Q: What kind of music resonates with you and motivates you in your work?
Ludwig: My musical tastes span a wide spectrum, depending on my mood and surroundings. A diverse choices one day it could be Chopin, another tunes of Luri, or the experimental realms of jazz and electronic music.
Q: Do you have a wellness routine you follow?
Ludwig: My daily wellness routine commences – with a good cup of coffee in the morning in the tranquility of my garden. Following that, I drive my daughter to school before embarking on an hour-long bike ride. My creative energies peak in the morning, with the afternoon reserved for problem-solving.
Q: What are three things you particularly cherish about Mexico?
Ludwig: Mexico's allure is multifaceted, but three things stand out – its cuisine, rich culture and above all, the cherished sense of freedom. I initially arrived here as a traveler and never left.
Q: Is there a city, architecturally, that you hold in high regard?
Ludwig: It's challenging to pinpoint a single favorite city, as my travels expose me to a variety of architectural wonders worldwide. I hold a profound admiration for Islamic architecture, steeped in intrigue and hidden secrets. Japan and India, despite their vast differences, both captivate me with their unwavering uniqueness and beauty. I also have a deep love for New York, and a recent visit to Istanbul left me amazed. The act of travel, in itself, fuels my soul and provides an endless source of inspiration.
Q: As a child, did you aspire to be an architect, or did you have other dreams?
Ludwig: From a teenage age, I harbored the dream of becoming an architect. This aspiration was deeply rooted, stemming from my father, who was also an architect. His untimely passing when I was just ten years old further fueled my determination to follow in his footsteps.
Thank you Ludwig we are so grateful for your sharing and we look forward to visiting and learning from your existing and future projects.
Follow Ludwig work on Instagram @ludwiggoderfroy
Merida House / Ludwig Godefroy Architecture. Photographer credit Rory Gardiner
Written and interviewed by Lana Alexander.