Imane Hocini

Throughout my two years at KCAD, I witnessed my design approach and perception of architecture evolve significantly. The strong interconnectedness of studio, with courses based on providing a theoretical framework, matured my ideas as a designer. In addition, it made my architectural solutions more systemized, allowing me to acquire a solid academic foundation based on thinking, discussing, criticizing, and writing about architecture which needed to be added to my primary education. Furthermore, I realized that good theory produces good practice, which insulates the discipline of architecture from the charges of superficiality and cosmetics.

During my time as an M.Arch student, I discovered a deep interest in the duality of globalization versus the localization of architecture. As a result, I decided to investigate approaches to balancing global rational ideas and the local architectural identity. 
My definition of contextualism and how it relates differently to natural and built environments also shifted tremendously. I developed a passion for exploring various ways to connect a project with its surroundings by celebrating the site's natural attributes while rejecting any form of romanticism, historicism, and any predictable formal mimicry of the existing built condition. Instead, I strive to create a cohesive ensemble where the new reactivates the old, which becomes a reference and inspiration for sustainable practices, climate integration, local knowledge, and a potential source of materials. 

I believe that the found architectural condition cannot be ignored but should not be passively reproduced to ensure the future continuity of creativity and innovation.