Love - the universal driving force of sustainability

In our Personīgā Zīmola Akadēmija exclusive interview, we give you the opportunity to dive into the life and work of Andrejs Staris . Find out what makes him one of the most distinguished and sustainable players in the ever-competitive field of architecture. We will analyze not only his visionary #design philosophy but also how his value system, especially his focus on #love and #sustainability, influences the essence of each of his projects.

If you are touched by the #harmony of #aesthetics and #functionality, if you are convinced of design's ability to transform and sustainably influence our world, or are simply interested in the people behind grand structures and architectural innovations, this #interview will offer you not only an educational but also an inspiring vision.

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Get ready to be inspired!

With your experience in construction and design, what do you consider your superpowers? What do you do better than others in this industry?

In my opinion, one of the superpowers that architects possess is the ability to see both the details and the big picture simultaneously. With our actions, work, and thoughts, we can, to some extent, help people by making the world a potentially better place to live. For example, I remember driving past a village where there once was a meadow, but now dozens of families live there, and it's their little world. It makes me think that these are the superpowers of an architect, creating something that initially was just an idea.

Speaking of myself – my wealth of experience in construction and design allows me to approach these projects holistically. I can think about architecture, engineering, and design simultaneously, meaning all aspects are coordinated right from the project's beginning. Another area where I believe my skills stand out is the integration of sustainable design right from the design phase, where we also involve our clients. I have a deep understanding of how to convert a client's needs and desires into practical, aesthetic, and economic terms. And that makes my work not only visually appealing but also sustainable and environmentally friendly.

Why did you choose to become an entrepreneur?

Actually, my initial passion has always been architecture, not entrepreneurship. However, life and professional experience led me to realize that to fully implement my goals and ideas, I needed more control over resources and processes. Architecture is teamwork, and as the team grows, so does responsibility and tasks. Hence, I concluded that to move forward, I had to become an entrepreneur. Of course, this decision has its advantages and challenges. One of the biggest issues is that the business aspects sometimes take away time I'd like to dedicate solely to architecture. It's a challenge I try to balance every day. But in the end, I still see myself primarily as an architect, even though I'm also an entrepreneur.

What values do you consider most important in your life and work?

The question of values is very personal, and it's very important to me. Family always comes first. They are my foundation and support. In professional life too, family principles are crucial, like trust and support. The next is the strength of the team and participation. I believe that architecture is a collaborative effort where everyone has an essential role. In our company, we've established a horizontal hierarchy, where everyone has equal opportunities and responsibilities. We're not divided into superiors and subordinates; we are all part of one team working towards a common goal. Another fundamental value I've thought a lot about in recent years is sustainability. And I'm talking about sustainability in a broader sense - not just ecological, but also in terms of durable and long-term partnerships, both at work and in personal life. In my opinion, sustainability is one of the cornerstones on which something big and meaningful can be built."

Are there any values that you have adopted from your education at the Biznesa augstskola Turība Business School or from your experience at ''Skonto Buve'' SIA ?

It's hard to answer immediately, but I think definitely. My professional and personal values have been influenced in many ways. Starting with education, I have acquired many technical and managerial skills, but in terms of values, my first internship had a significant impact. Andris Kronbergs from the design office "Arhis" gave me a fundamental understanding of architecture. Although at that time my tasks were technical and not related to larger project directions—for instance, I was drawing details in the Riga airport terminal—interacting with him inspired me to genuinely love architecture. Because a good teacher knows how to create that feeling, that atmosphere—that what I'm doing is really significant, and that might have also instilled in me a love for what I do, and for architecture as such.

Another great experience was at "Skonto Būve", where I worked as a construction manager. There was also a time when I felt I no longer wanted to be just a designer—I wanted to be a builder, because builders are the real men.

During this period, being on the other side of the construction site, I learned a new profession—I was a construction manager, and also oversaw some works. Yes, it gave me another perspective, an understanding of the entire construction process, which now gives me a great opportunity to be an architect with a different view of the construction process than many of my peers. Thanks to this experience, I understand not just design or planning, but also the aspects of realization.

How has your education in architecture and business management influenced your professional life? Do you see synergy between these two fields?

Absolutely, architecture and entrepreneurship are two spheres that often closely intertwine in my practice. Of course, I would have liked to focus only on architecture, but the reality is that business aspects are also inevitable. These aspects allow me to better understand client needs and objectives. Business skills, such as financial management, have helped me establish a sustainable and stable company.

One of our office's main principles is risk minimization. We strive to be so sustainable that even if the workload decreases, we can maintain employee positions and salary levels for at least six months. It's one way we strengthen sustainability and overall team cohesion. So yes, there is a synergy between architecture and business, and they mutually enhance and improve each other.

I've noticed that sustainability is a central element in your work, from employee relationships to project development. Could you give a specific example of how you promote sustainability in the creation of new projects or innovations?

Speaking of sustainability in a team context, I'm proud to say that some of our colleagues have been working with me since the company was founded in 2006. This, I believe, is a great example of sustainable work relationship building.

Regarding sustainability in architecture, we focus on building energy efficiency and the sustainability of materials. For instance, we often use wood, which is a renewable resource and serves as a "carbon bank". We choose wood not only because it's a sustainable material but also because it allows us to create buildings with a good microclimate and an environmentally friendly environment.

We worked on a building that is over 120 years old and have restored it using wood. Despite the fact that this building was abandoned for more than 40 years, most of its wooden structures are still in good condition. This confirms our belief in sustainable building material choices and approach.

What words and phrases do you most often use to describe yourself?

Although my clients might give a more accurate assessment, I describe myself as an innovator and combiner. I believe that two very important qualities that characterize a successful architect are patience and persistence. These qualities help me not only develop projects but also evaluate and integrate new technologies. We are constantly striving to improve, mastering both old and new technologies. I also approach certain trends, such as the European Union's Green Course, with some skepticism. We critically assess which green technologies are truly ready for implementation and which are not. Because by making hasty decisions, we risk creating disproportionately high costs for consumers.

You touched on the topic of technology. How have technologies influenced your work as a building designer and entrepreneur?

Technologies have significantly influenced my work, and their impact can be divided into two groups: design and construction. In the field of design, the biggest change has been 3D modeling. Previously, we made hand-drawn sketches, then moved to computerized drafting, and now use programs that allow us to virtually model buildings. This means we can eliminate many human errors and produce higher quality projects. Now we also use BIM (Building Information Modeling) and are interested in parametric architecture, assisted by artificial intelligence and artificial neural networks

The second category is construction and energy efficiency. Technologies, such as modern heating systems and renewable energy sources like solar and wind energy, are very important. We also try to combine these modern technologies with older ones, such as large wood-burning stoves with enormous thermal capacity. This helps use resources efficiently and reduce costs.

Overall, I think combining technology is fundamental. One example: I worked on a project where the heating costs for a house were only about 50 euros per month for a 220 square meter house area, thanks to the efficient combination of technologies. It should be noted that technology is constantly evolving, and we must be ready to adapt to offer the best and most cost-effective solutions.

What, in your opinion, makes your work results particularly interesting and unique?

Well, our approach differs from competitors in that we provide a full service from the beginning to the end of the project. Clients can come to us with an idea, a desire to purchase only a plot of land, or a need for a particular type of building. We are involved in the entire process - from design to handing over the building for operation.

This is something that sets us apart. Often this approach helps us win orders in competitions or price inquiries, as we offer some added value. So, in my opinion, the fact that we offer a complete service and are with the client from start to finish makes us unique and our work especially valuable.

If I understand correctly, its important for you not only to maintain your team but also to involve the client in the process as a team member. Can you tell more about this approach?

Yes, we pay great attention to team maintenance, and this includes relationships with clients. I've noticed that when a client is involved as a team member, the end result of the process is not only better but also emotionally easier to bear. Construction can be emotionally challenging, especially when it comes to someone's first private home. Clients may have big concerns about every little failure. However, if we control and monitor this process from start to finish, clients usually don't even realize there have been minor issues. They are resolved without additional stress or costs.

Is there a project or achievement that you are particularly proud of?

I have several projects that seem particularly significant to me. For instance, I have worked on the restoration of historic buildings in Jūrmala. These buildings are not only beautiful but also cultural heritage, and I am proud to have been able to help preserve them. Also, I have worked on large factory designs, which were technically very challenging.

In general, all my projects are dear to me, although some are more "bread-and-butter" jobs, and others help satisfy my need for creative expression. I guess I've been lucky in life – I do what I love, and it's my dream profession. Architecture and construction are the only fields I've wanted to work in. Interestingly, in the architecture profession, "architect" essentially means "chief builder" from Latin. Perhaps in the modern world, we've started to strictly separate professions, but essentially we are all part of the construction industry. Therefore, I believe a good architect should also be a good builder.

What recharges you after a long workday or week? What are your hobbies and passions?

I have several hobbies that help me relax and recharge. One of them is mechanical watches. I am fascinated by their precision and craftsmanship, especially those made in the late last century or post-war period. It's both an admiration for history and human skills. They are not only practical but also beautiful, and they were made by hand, and that's something special. I also collect watches with interesting features, such as 24-hour dials. Moreover, I really love sports cars and motorcycles. They are things that help me switch off from work and feel alive. I also once participated in Arctic expeditions, which were very challenging but also very stimulating.

What, in your opinion, is a good company leader?

I believe a good company leader is someone who can ensure several crucial aspects: Firstly, profitability and financial performance are vital; a company should be able to grow and show positive financial indicators.

Secondly, it's crucial for a leader to maintain a strong and consistent team. This means that staff turnover should be kept as low as possible because a stable team is more effective.

Thirdly, a leader should do something that leaves a positive impact on society or the business sector. As an example, I can mention a company that has created a valuable product or service that has genuinely changed people's lives for the better.

So, if a leader can realize these three aspects—financial stability, a strong team, and a positive social impact—I believe he or she is a good company leader.

But are there specific qualities or skills that you would recommend to those considering becoming company leaders?

In my opinion, first and foremost, it's essential to focus on what you love and what excites you and makes your eyes "shine". Then nurture this passion progressively with knowledge and experience, continuously learning. I realized this principle when I was 30 years old and understood the significance of continuous education, especially in a changing world where technological advancement is rapidly increasing. As an example, I can cite artificial intelligence, which can design structures much faster and more efficiently than humans. Therefore, it's essential to find a way to use these technologies to your advantage, understand the risks, and set your limits. Everything in the world is changing, so one must be able to adapt to new situations whether you're 20, 30, 40, 50, 60 years old, and so on.

As grand poet Rainis said, what exists will change.

Exactly, Rainis' words are still relevant today. Although technologies and society change, the human role remains constant. You can also quote another poet Ziedonis, "times are not important – the person is." Technology can replace human labor in various fields, but no mechanism can replace human values and emotions.

Moreover, we cannot forget about love as a driving force. Love for work, nature, profession, family, and loved ones is what keeps the world in a healthy state. I think that often economic and social crises arise from a lack of love in a broader sense.

Therefore, I wish for people to learn to love people and use things, not the other way around. If we can use financial and material resources as sources of energy to transform in various ways, then everything will be fine. This approach could be particularly beneficial for entrepreneurs, as finances and annual reports are just sources of energy that can be transformed in various positive ways.