If we look at organic architecture, it’s a design philosophy that allows the context to dominate the architectural design. A way to build within the site, and not on it. This way, the context guides the designer from ideation to execution. But this doesn’t have to stop here, this design philosophy can rule and is seen in many areas.

Schemata is plural for schema, which is a plan or outline of something. Through Schemata, my design and fashion studio, you’re able to experience this contextual design method in many areas. What birthed from my fascination with organic architecture, came forth fashion, art and digital spaces. Schemata has evolved into a contextual design engine.

In most post apocalyptic films I’ve seen, nature takes back its place across urban ruin over time. A sort of, “I was here first anyway” kind of move. I believe as nature always seems to reclaim its place, at least here in this example, we should embrace it from the very beginning.

3D VISUALIZATION BY JUSTIN MARTIN

In the Bible, God had created the earth and everything in it first. We came afterward. I’m not saying we, as humans, are less significant. God later puts Adam in charge of the context, to take care of and steward it. This is a big responsibility and of utter importance, as we live off the earth. Design and creation are a part our identity, we seem to have forgotten about the “sustainable” prefix.

Walking in nature has you feeling at peace, as if you belong there. A sense of dwelling. It is the architect’s duty to relay this sense when crafting a space or home. This is where organic architecture will always win. But as an architectural designer, why start and stop there? We can implement this in many sectors, designing and creating all kinds of products and experiences that embody that feeling.

We are here to create, so let’s do it sustainably. Let’s feather outside the design boxes. And let’s put context first.