“We shape our buildings; thereafter they shape us.” - Winston Churchill, 1943
SPIKE is a full service architecture and interior design studio based in the Gatineau Hills of Western Québec. We believe that informed design begins at the intersection of body, mind and built environment. Much of our understanding and perception of the external world is encoded in neuronal signals or spikes that our brain interprets, like language. It is our aim to integrate a multidisciplinary approach to today’s traditional architectural process by drawing from evidence based research in neuroscience, phenomenology and psychology.
est. Jan 2022
Architecture
Neuroarchitecture is an emerging field of study that seeks to understand the role the built environment plays in our experiential reality. Its goal is to understand how ones mental state, sense of well being, freedom of movement, or influence is shaped and enabled by the the physical context we find ourselves in.
We are at a turning point today where our approach to consumption, construction and production requires a more conserving, nurturing, culturally sensitive and ecological approach. Sustainability demands to become a foundational element in all design and construction practices with the goal of guaranteeing the future of our planet. In addition to sustainable design, Spike offers an alternative, human centred approach by focusing on how design choices impact the brain and body. This methodology hopes to unify building design with human physiology, ultimately reducing internal bodily disruption and stress by providing supportive environments intended to help tackle life’s everyday challenges.
Process
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Where ideas are hatched. By encouraging collaboration and adopting unique qualitative research methods throughout the design process, we begin by identifying the feeling or language of the space. These practices move us beyond visual consumption to include a multi-sensory approach to design.
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This is when information collected during the research period is integrated into a comprehensive design. By connecting somatic experiences with the built environment, we are better able to facilitate desired outcomes.
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As with any rigorous practice, technique and repetition produce insights and results. Feedback post-occupancy generates an information loop that informs the next project and serves to benefit society as a whole. This is arguably the most important, and often overlooked part of a design/construction project. Without it, concepts can’t be proofed, and will continue to encourage subjectivity in design.
info@spikestudio.ca
721 Chemin Riverside, Suite 206
Wakefield, QC J0X 3G0