I’m A Fan of Space But This Is Ridiculous

So, I’ve heard a lot of noise about this John Pawson fellow. An Architect and Interior Designer, he is a devotee of simplicity and embracing a feeling of space. The below image is from his work at Baron House, Sweden. I’m sorry. I’ve tried. I don’t like it. High ceilings? Fantastic; love them. Neutral colour schemes? Bring it on. Simple lines? Yes please. But this ‘space’ is just that: SPACE. To me it is completely lacking in personality, texture, colour, pattern and LIFE!! Even a focal point to help draw the eye to something! Where is the actual utilisation of space?

This is ‘Pawson House’, London 1994: I cannot for the life of me imagine anyone who would feel serene, calm and rejuvenated after a soak in this tub! To me, the utilisation of this space amounts to a room that resembles a large box, that has fitted furniture which resemble smaller boxes. Lots of sharp edges, harsh natural lighting and a corridor effect by having a rectangular bath situated parallel to another rectangular object. Very unappealing in my eyes.

By way of sharp contrast the Banq restaurant is a space that has completely disguised the straight edges of its dimensions by embracing more fluid, organic shapes. The large proportions of this room have been blended into a much more intimate and dramatic space; with heavy use of wood throughout helping to bring a sense of warmth and a very inviting atmospheric quality.