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Tell us about yourself and your practice.
The architectural firm that I now have, Haysom Architects, is a relatively new one, although it evolved from the previous practice of Haysom Spender Architects. We are a more specialised practice than Haysom Spender was but we still offer integrated architectural and interior design services.
We now take on fewer projects, and giving those projects a much stronger principal involvement than they would normally receive in a larger firm. We do not intend to grow much larger than the fifteen people that we currently have. With fewer projects to manage, our senior design team concentrates their efforts to ensure that the design and program issues are properly dealt with, so that the brief and budget are respected.
We like to specialise in hospitality projects where we are committed to a strong environmental approach. Good environmental design pays dividends on operating costs and community perceptions. Resort projects that foster environmental, cultural understanding and appreciation as well as a sense of place will also be the projects that will withstand changes in design fashion.Through developing a comprehensive understanding of the site we can also ensure the architectural expression is appropriate to the type and location of the development.
What do you like best about being an architect?
It is tempting to say what I don't like! However the payoff for me is in two stages of the project. The first is when you first start designing it and you have that first insecurity that the idea may not come, then it does and there is a big rush to get it down on paper. It's very exciting and if the idea is good enough and you are committed to it you can convince anyone to accept it. The second stage is when you are finished and you go back to the project and you realise that you have created something that people use and in some cases love. It's always nice to do resorts and see people using the dining spaces and the pool and enjoying themselves.
Why did you decide to use bifold doors when designing the project?
The bifold doors were conceived at the commencement of the design as they were the only door system that truly gave the flexibility we required in the design to allow the spaces to be completely or partially opened or closed.
How did the bifold openings contribute to the look and feel of the Resort?
The idea was to design an open timber platform of which the restaurant and reception formed a part. It was essential that that platform be allowed to be read as one. The openings have made a major contribution to achieving this concept.
What do you think about the functionality of the E3 hardware used on the bifold doors?
The new hardware has proved very easy to use. It is easy to open and lock and it deals well with the load from such large doors.
What made you specify Centor hardware?
For two reasons. Firstly we have had previous success with it in other resort projects due to its high quality engineering. Secondly we really like the design of the hardware and we felt that it fitted well into our overall concept. We also enjoyed the opportunity of working with Centor at the beginning of the job when the new hardware was being developed.
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Ed Haysom