The architectural signature of Pieter Brink (1959) is characterised by the absence of an unambiguous style. With every assignment, he looks at what the location needs and how it can be improved. This makes him a real contextualist, who uses architecture as a means to connect instead of a goal in and of itself. This connection is also reflected in the combination of traditional influences and modernism. This allows him to merge the power of the past and the potential of the future in a design. This creates a sustainable design that also strengthens social functioning.

Innovative

His designs are contemporary, innovative and at times experimental. The latter is mainly reflected in his knowledge of making circular construction a big part of an assignment. The materials and reusing them are paramount.

Pieter Brink has the knowledge and skills to find the balance between the client’s request and the possibilities of the location. Prior to the design process, he answers questions such as, ‘What can improve a person or a place?’ and ‘what stimulates?’ In his view, design is a small part of the assignment. Equally as important are the process and the collaboration.

Career

Pieter Brink started his career as a draughtsman in 1979, after studying at the MTS and HTI. After being encouraged by architect Clay, he started his studies at the Academy of Architecture in Groningen in 1984. This turned out to be a good move, because in his first year, his skill was rewarded with a national architecture award. He graduated cum laude. After his studies, he started the architecture firm Clay en Brink Architecten with Clay in 1991. This laid the foundation for the current B+O Architecture and Urban Design.