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19 November | Making a statement with understated architecture

Kersten Geers and David van Severen themselves refer to their pragmatic philosophy as an “economy of means”. This young practice is heavily focused on budget and, in line with this, creates impressive buildings using few design elements.

Kersten Geers and David van Severen themselves refer to their pragmatic philosophy as an “economy of means”. This young practice is heavily focused on budget and, in line with this, creates impressive buildings using few design elements. The Belgian architects proved this at the Venice Biennale of Architecture in 2010 when they were awarded the Silver Lion for most promising young participant.

“One of the aims of November Talks is to give young talent a platform for presenting their innovative approaches,” stresses Prof. Peter Cheret, member of the Foundation Council. “This is why we are especially looking forward to Kersten Geers and David Van Severen, who will be providing insights into their work on 19 November.”

When they extended and renovated a weekend house in Merchtem, Belgium, they created functional architecture whose aesthetic appeal lies in modesty. They expanded the building with four rooms arranged in a row in a narrow backyard. White brick walls, glass, and steel give the rooms contour without coming to the fore.

The November Talks take place every Wednesday at 19:00, in Tiefenhörsaal of the University of Stuttgart, with the support of the Sto Foundation. Admission is free.