First of all, who is James Law? What are his contributions to the world of architecture?
James Law JP was born in Hong Kong and came from a lower-class family. He was inspired by the movie “The Fountainhead” at a very young age that pushed him to pursue architecture. James entered the Bartlett School of Architecture and was mentored by Peter Cook. He also apprenticed under Itsuko Hasegawa in Tokyo then in 2001 James started his startup, Cybertecture, with no funding. The aim was to design and build innovative projects that will push the boundaries of technology and architecture. He also started the Cybertecture Academy to nurture future designers and breed new architecture’s cream of the crop.
Aside from this, there is also Cybertecture for Humanity Foundation which aims to alleviate suffering and poverty in the world through design. James Law was also recognized by the World Economic Forum as a Young Global Leader as well as by the Hong Kong SAR Government as a Justice for Peace. These in return for all the efforts to change and improve the world through his conviction.
Now, what is Cybertecture and how does it work?
Cybertecture, through architecture, interior design, engineering, master planning, consulting, technology and industrial design, artwork production, and the like aims to change and improve the world by providing state-of-the-art and world acclaimed leading-edge design. There are so many places that have already completed projects of different types and complexity including Hong Kong, Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Moscow, Mumbai, Beijing, New Delhi, and Abidjan.
The design team of Cybertecture maximizes the use of BIM, AR, VR, and 3D Printing which aims to seamlessly work high quality and detail-oriented projects. What are these and how do they contribute to Cybertecture?
Building Information Technology or BIM, it is a 3D modeling process that gives the field of constructions such as architecture and engineering professions the insight and tools to plan, design, construct, and manage buildings and infrastructure efficiently.
Virtual Reality or VR is now commonly used as part of a presentation in the field of design. It is a simulated experience that can be similar to the vision of the designer.
Augmented reality or AR on the other hand is an interactive experience of a real-world environment, enhanced by the computers to relay information using senses like visual, auditory, haptic, olfactory, and somatosensory. Last but not least is 3D Printing, also commonly used to create computer-generated models to real-life models by using a special printer.
James Law Cybertecture is a registered Architecture Practice of the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA), The Hong Kong Institute of Architects, and The Association of Architectural Practices. Their scope includes Architecture and Planning, building Smart Buildings, Mobile Buildings, Mixed-Use Developments, Green Buildings, and the like.
What’s the philosophy behind all of this?
Let’s simply put it this way, Cybertecture is the design of all things through new ideas of architecture and design field for a more intelligent world. Their philosophy is to see humanity undergo a new renaissance of rapid change on this planet by showing that every project that is designed and built should be able to contribute to a sustainable and better world for everyone.
According to James Law, Cybertecture centers on a mission to “innovate the fabric of mankind.” To innovate the environment and society by using a new synergy between design and technology that allows for everyday objects to become something more powerful and empowering. For example is a mirror, every day we reflect our image into this object as it becomes part of our lives. In Cybertecture, a mirror is transformed from a reflective window into digital life, augmenting the reflected image with interactive information that is useful for people.
It is using technology as a medium to alleviate poverty, homelessness, and the less fortunate. The goal is to create changes fast and efficient but one step at a time. Ironic isn’t it? Cybertecture’s goals in the design are to be “holistic to the overall user environment.” Not only should the focus be on man’s needs, but also the planet’s. All elements of nature such as plants, water, sunlight, soil, including man, etc. – should be considered in every design. Cybertecture is about bringing “human sustainability” to spaces, buildings, and objects to enhance the lifestyle of the people using it.
Now that we have understood the concept of Cybertecture, may this be a reminder to every one of the capacity that we have to change this world as designers. Just like James Law, he started his journey with this philosophy that he wants to help create a community and society that are meant for everybody, one project at a time. Never cease to have that drive and mindset of living for others and yourself, create a world that’s meant to be lived for our children and our children’s children.
