Today we’d like to introduce you to Edgar Bove.
Hi Edgar, so excited to have you on the platform. So, before we get into questions about your work life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today.
I come from a humble, small country nestled between France and Spain, Andorra, where I spent the initial decade of my life before embarking on a journey to the United States. Growing up, my father’s dedication to fine art significantly influenced my and my sisters’ artistic sensibilities. My siblings through animation and fashion design, while I found a harmonious blend of creativity and logic in architecture.
My fascination with diverse cultures and their peculiarities has been a driving force, leading me to explore, study, and work in various corners of the globe, including Spain, Malaysia, and the United Arab Emirates. Living and working in such distinct environments has enriched my perspective as an architect and designer, providing me with a unique flexibility and sensitivity in my approach to design.
In 2015, I relocated to Dubai to spearhead the establishment of an architecture office for a prominent U.S.-based firm. After several years, I transitioned to a local real estate developer, taking on the role of Head of Design for large-scale commercial projects. However, in December 2019, my wife and I returned to be closer to family. Opting for a more intimate and personal scale, I founded Re-Shape, focusing on single-family residential projects across Southern California. My career has been characterized by a continual evolution, navigating through changes in environment and project types, fostering a perpetual cycle of learning and growth.
Working on residential projects has afforded me the opportunity to delve into intricate details and engage directly with clients on a profoundly personal level. Transitioning from colossal million-square-foot commercial projects to the more modest 2,000-4,000 square-foot homes brings a sense of comfort, as the uncomplicated nature allows for a deeper exploration of how materials come together at a micro scale, presenting both intriguing and occasionally challenging opportunities for cohesive integration.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
While architecture serves as the driving force behind my life’s passion, it also proves to be an exceptionally demanding and draining profession. It stands out as one of the few fields that necessitates the simultaneous engagement of both the creative and analytical hemispheres. This dual demand is essential for crafting aesthetically pleasing and meaningful moments while overcoming real-life challenges, including structural and financial obstacles.
To compound the complexities, each project type introduces its own set of idiosyncrasies. Understanding the intricacies of sectors such as education, retail, mixed-use, hospitality, master planning, and residential has been a challenging yet enriching experience. This diverse range of projects has granted me a unique set of skills and perspective, setting apart my design abilities and processes from others. The ability to draw on lessons learned from various project types enriches my approach to residential design, infusing homes with a distinctive dimension and quality.
Another hurdle, with its own set of advantages, involves immersing oneself in a new culture. Navigating a different mindset and working in a place that demands unique design and functional parameters can initially be daunting. However, over time, this challenge adds flexibility to one’s creative problem-solving abilities, enhancing adaptability and enriching the design process.
Thanks – so, what else should our readers know about Re-Shape Development?
At Re-Shape, we are a team of creative professionals dedicated to crafting spaces and moments that resonate through architectural expressions. My particular focus lies in designing spaces through the exploration of sensory elements, utilizing texture and light to evoke a distinct experience. Our architectural approach is rooted in simplicity and honesty, achieved through the thoughtful use of noble or natural materials.
Operating in cities like Los Angeles, with its rich history and diverse residential styles spanning different eras, allows for a unique design for each home while maintaining subtle common threads. I firmly believe in avoiding the replication of styles from the past; instead, my philosophy is centered around restoring or renovating in a way that honors the old while seamlessly blending with contemporary elements. This eclectic approach is applied when working on existing homes with styles such historic Spanish, Tudor, or mid-century modern. Recognizing the uniqueness of every house and client, I believe in tailoring solutions to fit the specific needs and characteristics of each project.
In line with this philosophy, Re-Shape offers comprehensive architectural and interior design services for single-family homes throughout Southern California. Our commitment to tailored craftsmanship aims to bring joy and pride to homeowners, recognizing the individuality of each residence we have the privilege to reshape.
Do you have any advice for those looking to network or find a mentor?
Throughout my career, I’ve had the honor of collaborating with exceptional architects and professionals. I would suggest that discovering valuable mentors demands a personal commitment and a genuine eagerness to be inquisitive and learn. It is highly beneficial to work for top architectural firms worldwide early in one’s career despite the demanding hours and modest compensation. By demonstrating commitment and diligence, one can advance professionally, undertake more significant and prestigious projects, and simultaneously fortify their professional network.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://re-shape-development.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/re_shape.development/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/re-shape-llc
- Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/re-shape-development-los-angeles
Image Credits
Alex Zarour
Rose Colored Photography
Alyssa Kearney
