14 Quick Questions with Francesc Rife

The opening of a new store in the capital is hardly surprising. But the bathroom fixtures boutique on Lenin Prospect deserves special attention: a stylish and minimalist space has appeared on the first floor of a typical residential building, seamlessly integrated into its surroundings. This is not surprising since the project's architect was Francesc Rife, a master of working with forms and textures. We asked him several questions — about his work and more.

How do you like Moscow?

I really love it here, I'm absolutely fascinated by Soviet architecture from the 1960s–70s. Also, over the last ten years I've seen enormous changes in the city: the streets have become more colorful and clean, and people — more open.

Do you remember your first project in Russia?

Of course. Though it's been about twenty years! It was a jewelry store on Novy Arbat for the Louis Vuitton group. After that, most of my projects were private.

Boutique Laufen in Moscow. Design: Francesc Rife Studio

What was the most challenging project for you?

Oh. As an architect, I want to say that all my projects were challenging. Even the smallest ones.

Practically always, the complexity of a project comes from the people who approve it. The more people involved in approving the project — the more complex it becomes: everyone must voice their opinion and defend it at all costs.

What inspires you?

I'm inspired by painting, I very much love Rothko. Also, ancient architecture, which helps to understand modern — they built much better back then than now.

Design: Francesc Rife Studio

What is the most important quality for an architect?

To know how to listen.

Spanish design — what is it like?

Spanish design is diverse. The uniqueness of Spain lies in the fact that there are many provinces, each with its own food, culture, and design. Despite the trend towards globalization in recent years.

For me, as a designer, it's very important to preserve the characteristics of local culture.

But at the same time, I don't want the design to be overtly nationalistic. Only typical elements should remain in it, such as thematic hints.

Design: Francesc Rife

What trends will dominate in 2020?

Now there's a great connection with ecology. Everyone cares about maintaining the cleanliness of the environment. Natural materials, textures — such a natural minimalism. At the same time, its interaction with digital technologies.

But if technology is an inevitability, a product of time, then the trend towards ecological design is more of a marketing solution that sells well.

Do trends matter to you?

They don't matter to me. Not because I've already succeeded as a designer. I think that trends are not always a guarantee of success or good design.

Design: Francesc Rife Studio

Favorite material in your work?

Wood.

If not design, what would you do?

I'd like to be a manager in a restaurant. A unique, special, gastronomically interesting one. The atmosphere of a restaurant and the energy of the kitchen really appeal to me. I've had many projects where I worked with famous chefs. And by the way, it was precisely from them that I learned discipline and organization.

Restaurant Mercato in Barcelona. Design: Francesc Rife Studio

Last movie you watched?

Oy, I don't watch movies much. Recently, I finished the last season of Madman. It's an old series, but I only got around to watching it recently. Enjoyed it thoroughly.

Favorite Instagram account?

Of course! Not just one. I enjoy following the Instagrams of Vincent van Duysen, Kengo Kuma and Piero Lissoni. These are people I know personally. Therefore, I relate to them not only as recognized authorities and professionals but also as close friends. And despite the fact that they have already made a huge contribution to modern design, I still hope to learn much from them.

@pierolissoni @kkaa_official @vincentvanduysen

What’s your phone wallpaper?

This is a painting by Lucio Fontana, an Italian artist who was forced to leave Europe due to the crisis of the 1940s. There, he created his own concept of space: he cut canvases in his works to achieve a three-dimensional effect.

Often I begin my lectures with telling the story of Fontana — a man who disrupted the usual perception of artistic works and changed art in general.

The perfect start to the day is...

Sitting at home at my desk with a cup of coffee. It sounds simple and without frills, but since I'm constantly traveling, such a morning is the most desired for me.

Photo: forma5.com; interioresminimalistas.com; mosbuild.com