Interview with Lawrence Scarpa, FAIA
Revealing the Ordinary Extraordinary

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interviewed by Andrew Caruso, National Building Museum Online contributor

National Building Museum (NBM) Online: Pugh+Scarpa describes “investigation” as a foundation for its practice. What motivates this approach to design?
Cherokee
The Cherokee mixed-use building in West Hollywood, California, which is nearing completion. The project is expected to achieve LEED Platinum certification.
Photo by Tara Wujcik.

Lawrence Scarpa: In some ways, it’s a personal fear. Throughout the careers of architects I admired, they progressively plagiarized themselves. Their work became more predictable and I am always concerned of falling into that same trap. I strive to remain fresh, to never be afraid to do things differently or to take risk[s].

Our office pursues ideas that are experimental in nature— investigative things. This process requires you to be somewhat uncomfortable not only with yourself, but also with your clients who may bring expectations about your work. Through our clients’ interaction with the remnants of these explorations, they help us to advance new ways of thinking.

www.nbm.org/about-us/publications-news/n...wrence-scarpa-interv