Conceptual Architecture and Holistic interiors
How does our built environment influence us? And how do we influence the spaces that surround us? Which energies flow through a room and how can they be used? Questions like these have occupied architect Doris Maassen since the beginning of her career. In her projects Doris Maassen focusses on mindfulness in architecture and harmony between man and the built environment.
Doris’ in-depth knowledge of environmental psychology and subtle energies, i.e. the non-material energies that surround us, enables her to find holistic solutions to structural tasks. Her aim is to create harmony in living spaces, going beyond pure aesthetics to focus on the people inhabiting these spaces and their well-being.
Doris Maassen has gathered extensive experience in contemporary workplace design, private homes, yoga studios and hospitality. Doris worked for Ateliers Jean Nouvel on public facilities and the DEGW Group, which specialises on contemporary work environments, in Paris and London. She also worked for RKW, one of the largest German architectural firms for workspace and commercial architecture.
Doris holds a degree in Architecture from the Technical University of Munich (TU). She is registered with the British Architects Registration Board (ARB) and is a member of the Bavarian Chamber of Architects in Germany.
Doris also holds a masters’ degree in traditional Feng Shui. She has studied with internationally renowned experts, such as the “Grand Master” of the International Feng Shui Association (IFSA) and bestselling author Raymond Lo from Hong Kong and Alan Stirling, founder of the FSI and the Feng Shui School of Excellence in London.
Since 2009 Doris Maassen is running her own studio for conceptual architecture, holistic interiors and consultancy for sensory and cognitive wellbeing, in Munich and London.
Philosophy
“In my projects, I employ form and function as well as principles from ancient – almost 4000 years old– empirical science, environmental and colour psychology in order to generate space that resonates with the individual in a positive way. Ultimately, it is with our evolving understanding of the links between the physical body, the non-physical states, cognition and perception along with imagination, feelings and awareness of our capacity to change our ways of thinking and wellbeing, that major benefits can be accomplished.”
In today’s hectic times, people long for places of retreat. They are looking for an environment where they can find peace, recharge and be themselves. These can be private living spaces, public facilities or the working environment. But although people usually choose and furnish these places themselves, too little consideration is often given to the psychology of space. The result is a malaise that can hardly be explained. This is exactly where Doris Maassens’ philosophy comes in. In her understanding, architecture is an integral part of our life and also of our feelings. Every place has its own laws and energies, just like every person who lives in it. Both the room and its inhabitant influence each other and can – as long as they are in harmony with each other – trigger positive effects that improve everyday life.
Doris Maassen’s aesthetical and philosophical approach always takes a sustainable component into account. Unchangeable elements (e.g. the location of a building, the incidence of light, walls) and changeable elements (furniture, decoration, colours) are coordinated within her analysis in such a way that, even without the use of new objects, positive forces and dynamics are created that bring harmony to the space and improve the experience of everyday life.
Studio Doris Maassen is located in London and Munich. Projects are international in the fields of residential architecture, work environments, yoga studios, medical practices and conservation of historical monuments.
Concept
Concept
“Why think about architecture, art and design? Being in mindfully designed places makes it much more likely we are happy, healthy and wise. When we are in a good mood we think more broadly, we communicate more easily with one another and are better at solving problems and effective at making decisions. We are also more creative when we feel well supported – and positive things are more likely to happen.”
“I intend to reduce stress in the built environment as it degrades our physical, emotional, and cognitive wellbeing. The influence that space and objects have on your psychological state is the reason that design matters.”
Project Phases
Doris´ projects include personal assessments (private and/or professional) of individuals and/or communities, analysis of space and place, consultation and the integration of a holistic concept in a newly built or transformed environment.
PHASE 1: Consultancy for sensory and cognitive wellbeing
- Personal assessment in individual or continuous sessions
- Evaluation of the actual living or working situation
- Analysis of space and ambiance from a holistic point of view
- Setting intentions for the future use of space and personal development
- Holistic spatial concept combining architecture and aesthetics with sustainability and spatial energy
- Recommendations for further action
PHASE 2: CONCEPT IMPLEMENTATION
- Architectural works
- Interior design
- Choice of colours, objects, furniture, and materials
- Communication of intention in phase 1
- Planning and coordination of works
It is possible to book Phase 1 only as well as individual modules within a planning process.
“The aim of my work is personal growth of my customers and authenticity, rather than a self-indulgent luxury. My recommendations are experimental and progressive as well as practical. The outcome is always highly personal and invigorating.“