Architecture is always political.

If you live in a squalid environment, then of course you are going to want to get out of it, you are probably going to want to get into the country, because that’s what it does.

In Florence, classical buildings sit against medieval buildings. It’s that contrast we like.

Today is much more an age of greed.

I don’t understand why everyone has to wear black, grey and white.

I believe very strongly, and have fought since many years ago – at least over 30 years ago – to get architecture not just within schools, but architecture talked about under history, geography, science, technology, art.

Dyslexia, though, made me realise that people who say ‘but you can’t do that’ aren’t actually very important. I don’t take ‘no’ too seriously.

Sustainable development: Meeting present needs without compromising the stock of natural resources remaining for future generations. In terms of buildings, it implies resource efficiency, minimum energy use, flexibility and long life.

My passion and great enjoyment for architecture, and the reason the older I get the more I enjoy it, is because I believe we – architects – can effect the quality of life of the people.

Architecture is measured against the past, you build in the present, and try to imagine the future.