Anouska Hempel speaks about her admiration for the Doges Palace in Venice, a stunning architectural marvel that captivates both day and night viewers with its intricate beauty. She describes how it looks like a floating kilim carpet when seen from the lagoon, highlighting the palace's unique aesthetic appeal amidst the serene waters of Venice. Beyond the Doges Palace, Hempel also expresses her fondness for bridges and moats, viewing them as connectors and separators that add layers to the urban landscape.
Hempel’s words reveal a deep appreciation for how architecture can blend functionality with beauty, serving not just as physical structures but also as elements that shape the identity of places. The bridges she admires connect different aspects of life—houses, people, gardens, and palaces—suggesting a sense of unity and interconnectedness in urban design. Conversely, moats and ha-has (a term for sunken ditches) represent spaces that create separation and privacy, illustrating how architecture can also define personal boundaries and solitude within the bustling city environment.
The quote is attributed to Anouska Hempel, an influential British designer known for her distinctive approach to interior decoration and hotel design. Her work often emphasizes a blend of historical elements with contemporary aesthetics, reflecting her deep appreciation for architectural beauty and its role in enhancing the human experience.
