Philosophy
Photo: Herbert List/Magnum Photos
ASK Studio is a Midwest-based architecture atelier offering master planning, architectural, interior and product design services. Our work is proudly expressive of our heritage and impelled by an appreciation of the relentless rhythms of the Iowa landscape.
The philosophy of our work is rooted in our definition of architecture, our client's definition of success and resolute respect for place, its beauty, fragility and spirit. Architecture is the art and science of building disciplined by function, economy and ecology. The most basic of architecture meets human needs through rational problem solving and fundamental space. In its most artful form, architecture serves to advance or mirror culture and uplift the spirit. We believe that all projects, regardless of budget or means, deserve the considerations that aspire to be architecture. We embrace the challenges of discipline. Through discipline we define and discern success and excellence.
Regarding this course of invention we find mettle in the ruminations of Pablo Picasso: "Forcing yourself to use restricted means is the sort of restraint that liberates invention. It obliges you to make the kind of progress that you can't even imagine in advance.
I do not seek. I find."