Architecture is not just about the purely physical feel of buildings, but about appealing to all the senses, triggering emotions and touching the soul. It is a unique opportunity to create something lasting that is not only functional but also inspiring. Architects who take this approach strive not only to create spaces in their work, but also to evoke experiences and emotions that leave a lasting impression. In this interview, we delve into the working world of Giovanni Ferrara, an experienced Basel architect who has shaped the landscape with his outstanding works for over two decades and continues to do so.
Giovanni Ferrara is now the owner of several successful companies in the construction industry. As CEO and Chairman of the Board of Directors, he not only holds a management position, but also knows the industry from the ground up. After studying architecture at ETH Zurich, he gained professional experience before opening his own architecture firm in 2005. Ferrara Architects AG founded. Whether new build or refurbishment, listed building, detached house or cooperative apartments: The portfolio of the Ferrara Architects AG is broad and varied. The company structure covers almost all services, from planning, project development, construction, execution, management and consulting to interior design.
Giovanni Ferrara looks back on 25 years in the business, during which he has witnessed some profound changes: "Construction used to be a lot slower. Many things, but not everything, can be accelerated - and that's a good thing," as the experienced businessman tells us in the interview. He is also skeptical about another development: An architect today is often no longer a generalist, but a specialist who operates in a narrowly defined field. "However, there are risks associated with too much specialization, as many interfaces represent potential sources of error," says the Managing Director.
Honesty and sincerity form the foundation of his work, and he sees architecture not just as a building, but as the result of a moral and ethical approach. While the keywords "sustainability" and "circular economy" dominate modern discussions in the construction industry, it is crucial for him that architecture internalizes these principles not only in its projects, but also in its philosophy. Authenticity and integrity are very important to the managing director, who does not allow himself to be influenced by short-term trends. His proven principles and values are reflected in the many years of employee loyalty in his companies and his long-term vision. For Giovanni Ferrara, success is not just a question of constantly chasing profits, but rather a result of focusing on humanity and team performance. This approach creates a harmonious bond, be it with a client or a project.
Mr. Ferrara, if you had taken a different path when you were younger, what would you have become?
"I would probably have immersed myself in the fascinating world of history and languages. With Italian as my mother tongue and German as my second language, it was always my goal to master all the languages of the Basel border region and explore their histories. Learning French was the logical step for me, a secondo born in Switzerland, to expand my language skills.
In addition, my passion for architecture was always present. This fire was kindled by my godfather and my mother. I was captivated by the idea of designing buildings that were not only functional but also aesthetically pleasing. I am very happy with the choices I have made and how they have made me the person I am today."
What is your favorite way to start your day?
"My ideal start to the day begins comfortably at around 5:00 a.m., like my father when he was working. I love to make myself a cup of fresh coffee and read the news first. These quiet moments are a perfect opportunity for me to start the day calmly and prepare myself for what's to come.
After my relaxed morning ritual, I devote the first two hours at home to work, now known as the home office. Here I can work on projects in peace, answer emails and prepare for the everyday tasks ahead. This productive time alone at home allows me to develop a clear focus and sort out my thoughts. Finally, I make my way to the architecture office, where my team and I dedicate ourselves to our vocation, architecture. Here I immerse myself in another world, planning, designing and working closely with my team to turn our visions into reality. The mix of quiet mornings, productive early work and creative work in the office is the perfect start to the day for me."
What does success mean to you personally?
"For me personally, success means realizing challenging goals in a harmonious way with the people around me. For me, success is not just about achieving goals, but also about the path to them and the way in which these goals are achieved and dreams are realized.
It's about working together as a team, creating synergies and working together on projects that inspire us. It is the joy that arises when we combine our skills and passions as a group to create great things. Success means finding a harmony and balance in this collaboration in which each individual can contribute their strengths and we can achieve top performance together.
For me, true success is the art of being in harmony with my fellow human beings and my environment."
What would you work for free for a week?
"I'm very fascinated by landscape architecture and I generally like working outdoors. Spontaneously, I would be interested in agriculture, for example working with vines, olive trees and fruit trees. We also have an urban gardening project at our office in Basel, which is very close to my heart."
What was the best professional advice you ever received?
"The best professional advice I ever received was: "A generation needs to know where it has come from in order to accept where it is and understand where it is going." This advice embodies the idea that our decisions are influenced by both the past and the present. It means looking back at our roots and experiences in order to accept the present and understand what goals and visions we have for the future. In architecture as a discipline that influences space and people alike, it is of great importance to reflect on what legacy we want to leave to society. It encourages us to make conscious decisions and focus our professional work on the contribution we want to make to shaping our environment and society."
We would like to thank Mr. Ferrara for his contribution to this article.
This interview was conducted orally.
Batterman Consulting Basel AG
Executive Search,
Byfangweg 1a, CH-4051 Basel
T +41 58 680 55 55
basel@batterman.ch
