Material Tendencies: Jean-Marie Massaud

Architonic met up with the French architect and designer earlier in the year, whose work ranges from industrial and interior design, through major architectural projects, to one-off items and series production.

Which material would you choose if you had to restrict yourself to working with just one for the next three years?

This is very challenging. I don’t think I have a certain style or preference, so I am open to every kind of material. I like natural materials that are versatile and efficient. Usually it is the merging of high technology and natural material incarnation. I always like to explore the competence of industrial potential and then combine it with something more gentle and warm. I like for example the democratic and affordable aspect of a plastic chair, but then I want to have a soft touch on my bottom. So I add felt or some other natural material to the plastic shell.

… and within the architectural field? Any preferences?

My personal sensitivity is to put some rough stones on the floor, or some rough minerals. If you are outdoors, I also like decking. I always enjoy going barefoot and therefore I prefer natural materials, not alone because of the feeling. For global projects, I like it when it is pure, but not clinical like a hospital. If there is a wall with some Mashrabiya, it could all be just pure concrete. But this all depends on the context. I don’t have a recipe.

With the Axor WaterDream project you had free choice of material. Can you say a few words about your piece ‘Mimicry’?

I wanted to make a faucet that disappears in the landscape of the bathroom. The simple geometric shapes create a landscape of white marble that harmonises with the floating water in a very elegant way. The setting generates a natural ambience that is a friendly contrast to the otherwise more industrial identity of the company. As an architect you usually use white marble in the high-end market, like for the interior of a luxury hotel. This natural stone is pleasant, sensual, but at the same time it is a statement and it is durable. The marble faucet is perfectly integrated into the architecture. It enhances the room's emotional appeal.