John Smart: Grand plans
Architect John Smart didn’t just design the eye-catching DKH building, he also lives there. Here he tells Living South about his innovative home between Camberwell and East Dulwich
Above: Architect John Smart lives in the housing project he designed at Dog Kennel Hill
Where is your home?
At DKH. It doesn’t get much better than living in your own bespoke home, though my wife at times shares a different view.
How long have you been there?
Four years in building it, but so far only one month of enjoying it.
How do you sum up your style?
My silent mantra is "appropriation and invention".
When did it dawn on you that you would have a career in architecture?
Most of my childhood photos involve me making things – of sorts. I have no shame in saying that I’m better in directing others to build out my own DIY – that’s why architects enjoy being architects.
If you didn’t do what you do, what job would you like to have?
Sadly, my youthful dream of being an eternal DJ on a white beach is yet to expire.
What’s your favourite place to pick up a bargain?
A fresh, off-the-radar site from an estate agent’s bottom drawer.
What is your most recent purchase for your home?
As it’s a new home, almost everything! My most painful expense though was the penga penga flooring. As my wife’s Danish, carpets were not an option and it went throughout.
Do you have any collections?
The material library in the studio; it’s my anthology.
Is there a single star gadget that’s changed your life for the better?
A TomTom… until we both overheated.
Is there a colour or material you can’t get enough of at the moment?
I like to reinvent, either from layering materials or treating everyday materials to make something greater and unexpected from the parts.
In terms of your work, what projects are you working on now?
Our work ranges from unique bespoke one-off houses to various progressive apartment buildings within the UK. Ultimately we aim to challenge the chronic quality of new-build housing in the UK having our own construction company and design team.
Do you have a green thumb? What do you grow?
I have one potted plant that I take great care of.
Are you a good cook? What’s your speciality?
I have five emergency recipes and usually use all of them when cooking.
Are there any hobbies or crafts you’re passionate about?
Most sports, especially sailing. But thankfully my work is my passion.
Is there a designer, artist or architect whose work you really admire?
No one I’m stalking right now, but I tend to get pulled in the moment of seeing something I like rather than being a fan of anyone.
What’s the biggest architectural no-no in your eyes?
Just everyday unimaginative stuff – it’s worse than pastiche. Sadly so many developers do both.
What’s your favourite place to be in your house?
The terrace has fantastic panoramic views of moving weather fronts across Saaarth Laaardon. It’s the closest thing to the view aboard a sea ferry.
If you didn’t live in south London in 2007, where and when would you like to live?
The constant debate! Essentials are by the sea, in a city and with high quality of living. Given my wife is a Scandi, Copenhagen is in theory the logical answer, but Antibes in the south of France is a clear contender too. East Dulwich the compromise for us until we get tugged in the direction of somewhere better than East Dulwich – if it exists!
www.johnsmartarchitects.co.uk