Apricot Square’s founding director, Juan Guilmar Baldoni, speaks with the Architects’ Journal as part of its New Practice series, reflecting on the formation of the studio, ways of working, and architecture’s relationship to contemporary culture.
The interview explores the East London–based studio’s multidisciplinary approach, positioning architecture as a cultural practice shaped by collaboration, intuition, and influences beyond the discipline itself. It touches on emerging generational shifts in how practices operate, the role of AI within the design process, and the value of working across scales and typologies.
More Place, home renovation project by Apricot Square
The AJ article reflects on the uncertain, fragile times we’re working within, marked by increasing pressure on how architecture is made. Rather than treating those conditions as obstacles, the conversation frames them as something to work with, embracing constraints as a way to sharpen ideas and remain responsive to the realities of contemporary life.
The publication also features a selection of Apricot Square’s recent work, including Fairmead House, More Place and A Circus Life, illustrating the studio’s interest in both private domestic settings and cultural, public-facing projects.
From there, the conversation then looks outward, referencing buildings that continue to inform and challenge architectural thinking. Among them is the Lisson Gallery by Tony Fretton, cited as a project that remains influential through its spatial qualities and 'the almost punk, DIY character of its modernist façade.'
With thanks to the Architects’ Journal and Richard Waite for the conversation and publication.
Read the full article here.