Architecture

Architecture as opposed to building is all to do with the flow of spaces in light.

As building has become more regulated, more functional and economic, it is increasingly difficult to make architecture.

My architectural work has been mainly single family houses but there have been commercial projects including health centres and apartments. However as Frank Lloyd Wright said many years ago, the family house is one of the most complicated and involved projects an architect can do and if one can master that one can master anything.

As with painting my work has been based on traditional ecological methods and techniques acquired through years of university training in the USA and work experience in Canada and England; new materials and methods have evolved alongside.

There are many factors to be considered in forming architecture. The sense of place and the elevation of spirit are the philosophical; then there is location, view and relationship to the elements: sun, wind, rain and finally the local vernacular. The local rules and regulations are there to be dealt with and where possible, used to advantage.

My English work has been executed primarily in Cornwall with its strong local style and regulations limiting a great deal of creative breadth. Truly sculptural designs have been elusive. The Italian projects have been in Tuscany and Umbria with their own strong vernacular and equally strict communal policy. These, while limiting the scope of architecture, help to retain the local traditions and set a challenge within which to work. As a matter of fact traditional country houses with their lofty spaces, interesting masonry and fine woodwork offer fantastic opportunities for a creative architect.

I am constantly searching for situations where location, client and community can meet and allow the artist-architect to flourish.

Barrie's architectural legacy is being carried on in Italy by Arco Studios Italia and in the UK by Arco Studios Penzance.