Meet David! David comes to Curran Architecture with extraordinary experiences – both in architecture and life. His love for detail, found through his travels across the world, makes for a unique skill set that brings value to every project.
How did you get into the industry?
I have always taken a liking to design, but my passions intensified after high school when traveling across Europe. Where I am from in South Africa, it is common to take a gap year to explore the world. This is the year my interest in Architecture grew. It was fascinating entering historic buildings, filled with incredible details and discovering how these spaces evoke certain emotions. This sparked my interest in studying architecture, graduating from Tshwane University and soon after continuing to grad school where I earned my Master of Architecture from the University of Victoria.
What is your favorite part of working in Architecture?
I am drawn to the idea of how a building can make you feel. I bring a great deal of technical expertise to the role, as well as a lot of hands-on experience. Developers compliments my knowledge of building technologies, and I think that reflects in my work. I prioritize the importance of listening to the needs of our clients and creating spaces that can spark joy for a long period of time. It takes a real sense of comradery, both with our team and our clients to get there.
Where are you excited to grow?
I believe that every day is an opportunity to grow. I am really looking forward to growing with the Curran team. I have already learned so much in such a short period of time and am excited to continue expanding my knowledge. I enjoy working on projects that are challenging, creating spaces that meet client’s needs.
Do you have a favorite type of project or build?
Not necessarily. I really like creating spaces that people feel comfortable in. I enjoy looking back at classical architecture from my travels. I sat and watched a mason chiseling a limestone block by hand creating a beautiful column capital and that inspired me to focus on small details on buildings. I completed the detailing for the Carmel Public Safety Building and used that as inspiration to create details that follow the proportions of classical design.
What do you enjoy doing outside of work?
I enjoy woodworking and gifting my work to others. I love to be active and am an avid cyclist. I try to be outside as often as possible, including backpacking, sea kayaking and snowboarding. I have summited numerous mountain peaks in the Americas, Africa, and the Himalayas. I am fortunate to be able to travel and explore the world and I can say with confidence that I have never been disappointed. I find beauty in every place I’ve visited and people I’ve met along the way.
What is something a stranger would be surprised to learn about you?
For over three decades, I have carried an image of Nelson Mandela with his prison number on me. This serves as a constant reminder that we can work through adversity with humility and be compassionate every moment of our lives.
If you could teleport anywhere in the world right now, where would it be and why?
I would teleport to Iceland because it is such a beautiful country/island. All senses get simulated to the max – smelling the sulfur and seeing the alien-colored landscapes and feeling the heat of the thermal springs and mist from the thousands of waterfalls. There is so much to experience, and I would recommend anyone to explore Iceland.