Self-taught architect aims to create unique designs

Monique French has authored the book, ‘R etreats: Residential Designs of Monique French; Inspired And Unique Designs To Create Beautiful Living Spaces’. It is a combination of diverse styles that are all located in a tropical climate. A self-taught architect, she works on places and spaces we call home.

The desire she said is to create unique and aesthetically pleasing designs, a journey that blends innovation with functionality. Every architectural project presents an opportunity to craft something distinctive, a structure that stands out while harmoniously blending with its surroundings.

Beauty in architecture she said goes beyond aesthetics. “It encompasses the harmony between form and function, the ability to evoke emotions, and the reflection of cultural values. In modern architecture, beauty emerges from the innovative use of materials, integration with the environment, and creating meaningful spaces,” French said.

She has a certificate in interior design from HEART/NSTA Trust, a certificate in interior design from New York School, and has completed the University of Texas’ summer programme in architecture.

Seven residential projects are presented in the book, with floor plans and a wide range of photos. “I love design, architecture and art. This is a certainty born out of a constant gravitation to all things design for as long as I have memory. It is a simple and humble undertaking to see something as it can be in the place it should be. Through work and the journey with a room, it becomes ‘a room of one’s own’. Sometimes before and after meeting the intended ‘one’, you experience joy when the things, the room, and the one come together,” French said.

At the heart of unique architectural design is innovation. That she says means stepping outside conventional norms and experimenting with new forms, materials, and technologies. It is about thinking creatively to solve design challenges in ways that are practical and visually striking.

“This book shows the arrival at the end of that journey for several residential projects. They were completed in a topical climate, which at any moment might offer rain, sun, hurricane, earthquake and/or drought,” she added.

Whether it is a residential home with an unconventional layout or a commercial building that challenges traditional aesthetics, the key she said is to push the boundaries of standard architectural practices.

“One trend gaining momentum in unique architectural designs is the integration of natural elements. That can range from incorporating green spaces within urban structures to using natural light as a significant design element. The use of glass, for instance, to create light-filled spaces or to provide stunning views of the surroundings, can transform an ordinary building into a piece of art,” French said.

Architecture is more than just the construction of buildings. It is the art of designing and creating spaces that are both functional and beautiful. One of the key components of architectural design is the use of decorative elements that add visual interest and highlight the unique features of a building.

“Decorative architectural elements can take many forms, from intricate carvings and mouldings to colourful tiles and stained-glass windows. They serve as a way to distinguish one building from another and to reflect the cultural and artistic styles of a particular time period,” French said.

She believes that a beautifull built environment creates quality of life for a community. With this vision in mind, French has completed several interior design projects, mostly residential. These projects have ranged from the floor plan and interior design for the conversion of space from commercial to residential use, to construction projects, to the extensive renovation of residential properties, and the updating of the interior of commercial offices. Colour, texture, craft are elements French enjoys using regardless of the aesthetic style.

“As architecture continues to evolve, so too will the use of decorative elements. New materials and technologies are making it possible to create intricate designs and patterns that were once impossible to achieve. At the same time, there is a growing appreciation for the value of historic architecture and the need to preserve it for future generations,” French said.

“Whether through the use of traditional or modern decorative elements, architects will continue to use design as a way to create beautiful and functional spaces that inspire and delight,” she added.