"Credibility over spectacle—true architecture lasts beyond the wow factor."
In the world of architecture, there’s often a temptation to chase the "wow" factor—the incredible structures that make headlines and dominate social media. But at Studio Lobato, we believe that credibility should always come before spectacle. In our view, great architecture isn’t about creating something that simply looks good in a photo. It’s about designing spaces that respect their surroundings, work within realistic budgets, and serve a meaningful purpose for the people who will use them.
In my opinion, architecture that doesn't follow the basic principles of design, that ignores the constraints of the site, or that disregards the budget isn’t just reckless—it’s irresponsible. If we as architects are truly committed to building sustainable, lasting structures, we need to shift the focus away from the pursuit of the incredible and toward the pursuit of the credible.
Follow Design Principles, Not Fads
Too often, we see designs that sacrifice long-term functionality for the sake of aesthetics. Eye-catching, yes, but will those buildings still be relevant in 10, 20, or even 50 years? Following core design principles—like material honesty, functionality, and simplicity—is what allows architecture to stand the test of time. These principles are our foundation, ensuring that every project has structural integrity and a clear purpose. At Studio Lobato, we’re committed to architecture that is guided by these principles rather than trends, because design fads come and go, but good architecture is forever.
The Site Speaks, We Listen
Another crucial part of credible design is responding to the site. We’ve all seen projects where the building feels out of place, like it was dropped there with no thought of its surroundings. Architecture, in my view, should feel like it belongs. It should listen to the landscape, respond to the climate, and respect the environment.
At Studio Lobato, we approach each site as a partner in the design process. Whether we’re working on a beachfront property in Bali or a hillside retreat, the site informs every decision we make. This goes beyond aesthetics—it’s about making smart, sustainable choices that ensure the building works with, not against, its environment.
Budget: Not a Limitation, but a Creative Tool
Budget is often seen as the enemy of creative architecture, but I disagree. Following a budget isn’t about cutting corners; it’s about finding creative ways to maximize resources. There’s elegance in restraint. I believe that a project’s budget can actually drive better design, forcing us to be more innovative with materials, space, and techniques.
In our projects, we take the budget seriously, because it’s not just about the client’s investment; it’s about making sure that every dollar spent brings value to the project. This is where credibility comes into play again—being transparent about costs, setting realistic expectations, and delivering results that are worth the investment. In the end, that’s how trust is built.
Context: Architecture as a Reflection of Its People
Finally, credible architecture must respond to its context—not just in terms of physical surroundings, but also cultural and social factors. Architecture should reflect the identity of the community it serves. It should be a thoughtful response to the traditions, values, and needs of the people who will live in or interact with the space.
At Studio Lobato, we believe that architecture has the power to elevate a place, but only when it is rooted in an understanding of the local context. We don’t believe in imposing foreign ideas or designs that ignore the local culture. Instead, we take the time to understand the specific needs and values of the communities where we work, and we let that understanding shape the design.
In a time where architecture often seeks the spotlight, I think it’s more important than ever to prioritize credibility. Following design principles, listening to the site, respecting the budget, and designing within the context are not limitations—they are the foundation of responsible, sustainable architecture.
At Studio Lobato, we choose to focus on the credible over the incredible, because we believe that the best buildings are the ones that are thoughtful, respectful, and enduring. These are the projects that don’t just look good today, but will continue to serve their purpose—and their people—for years to come.
Building Trust, Not Just Buildings.
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