21 Questions with Joey Shimoda, AIA
by Danette Riddle, Hon. AIA/LA
I’m not really surprised by the success that my friend Joey Shimoda has enjoyed in his still very young architectural career. He’s immensely talented, bright, and kind–living proof that good karma is a viable concept–and he’s also got a great sense of humor, as you can tell by his interview comments. Since establishing his own studio, Shimoda Design Group, in 1999, his work has been consistently published and award-winning, and the product thus far indicates even greater promise for the future. A little background might be in order: Joey earned his bachelor of architecture degree from California Polytechnic State University in San Luis Obispo in 1988. After graduation Joey worked in several notable studios around Los Angeles, including Morphosis, Frank O. Gehry, Marmol + Radziner, Johannes Von Tilburg and Partners, Keating Mann Jernigan Rottet, and DMJM Design. He also spent time in Europe working for Peter Wilson of the Buros von Bolles + Wilson. The Shimoda Design Group has a core staff of six and currently has projects underway in Los Angeles, Dallas, and Phoenix. Joey has taught at the Southern California Institute of Architecture (SCI-Arc) and continues to participate in symposia and student reviews at USC, UCLA, SCI-Arc, Art Center College of Design, and Woodbury University. He is also an appointed Commissioner for the City of Los Angeles Affordable Housing Commission.
Q: What's your favorite work of art?
A: Just about anything by Gerhard Richter or James Turrell. In terms of something that spoke to me at a young age, it would be Da Vinci's "Annunciation of Christ" in the Uffizzi. Not because I am particularly religious, I just love the moment of seeing that painting for the first time.
Q: Is architecture art?
A: Absolutely, but it is elusive. The definitions can be debated ad infinitum. For me, architecture is an art when my heart is moved far before my mind is.
Q: What is your favorite building in LA?
A: Well, it's not in LA, it is in Southern California though, it's the Salk Institute.
Q: What's your favorite building in the world?
A: Ronchamp
Q: If you could listen to only 5 CDs for the rest of your life, what would they be?
A: Not in any particular order:
PJ Harvey: Home made compilation
This Mortal Coil: It will end in tears
Roxy Music: Avalon
Bach: Six Suites for solo cello
Chet Baker: Funny Valentine
Q: What would be your last meal?
A: I would prefer not to be aware of my last meal but if I had to choose, it would have to be oysters, crab cakes and vodka martinis.
Q: What's your most treasured possession?
A: My imagination
Q: If you could change anything about the profession what would it be?
A: There are really two parts to this question. The first lies in what value does society place on the significance of architecture? The second question is how does the architectural profession maximize its impact in this context?
Given my feelings about the first question, I would advocate that the profession develops stronger political and legislative power. This is very difficult for the profession to accomplish because it is not a natural strength for most architects. Furthermore, architectural education does not place any emphasis on the production of champions for politics or legislation.
Q: Rich or Famous?
A: Rich AND Famous
Q: Dog or cat?
A: Dogs rule
Q: Do you think L.A. is the Florence of our time?
Absolutely, the amount of cultural innovation and creativity that happens in this town is an inspiration to the world. In terms of architecture, I think the big difference is that the beauty that we are creating environmentally in Los Angeles does not currently approach the beauty of Florence. However, we are all still young and there are many more miles to go, so there is still time to have beauty too.
Q: Do you think it's true that architects don't achieve real success until their 50s?
A: I think success occurs little by little for all good architects.
Architecture naturally takes time, so maybe it is really about having enough time to mature as a designer and a builder. I also think there is a very natural correlation between what the architect's abilities, reputation etc. and the age and expectation of any client commanding the resources for a significant commission.
Q: What's your architectural age?
A: Barely pubescent.
Q: Montblanc or Mouse?
A: Montblanc
Q: What made you decide to become an architect?
A: When I was 18 I saw Hoover Dam, I think that did it, I was amazed how such an immense man-made structure existed with the natural landscape.
Q: What do you find most difficult about the creative process?
A: The most difficult part for me is to be able to forget about all the pragmatic aspects of building and just focus on the ideas.
Q: What do you find easiest about the creative process?
A: The ability to get completely carried away.
Q: What is the most important quality you look for in young designers?
A: I think the single most important quality in a young designer is passion. Without it, there will never be a soul in their work.
Q: What is your idea of perfect happiness?
A: A studio space with the following characteristics:
• Interesting / innovative projects throughout the world
• A view of a body of water, sunset friendly because I am not a morning person
• Great people to collaborate with
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A great bar/kitchen
•
An obedient dog
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A great place to go home, one that is farther away than 10 feet above the work area.
Q: What is your favorite journey?
A: Scooter rides on the Amalfi Coast.
Q: Who are your heroes today?
A: I am inspired by many people, but in terms of architects: Thom Mayne, Peter Wilson, Steven Holl & Renzo Piano