It was the first time I have travelled to Fiji, a short trip to spend some time away with our children. Absolutely beautiful! The long beaches, the sun, the crystal-clear water of the ocean and the smiley attitude of the local people... We only stayed a few days but we have come recharged and ready to face the restless pace that seems to rule our Sydney life.
But I couldn't just rest. Looking around and trying to discover something about the local culture is the way we travel, and how homes are built is what gets me excited the most. In fact, Architecture is always strongly affected by the local customs and the materials that are available there. Like this hut that is in the resort we stayed in, near the water and charming, aesthetically... but on close inspection we noticed more details than just its exotic appeal....
Tall as columns, the posts that support the roof are tree trunks that haven't been polished or even shaped. Trees that have been cut and apparently used as-is. I had never seen this and it made me wonder about the trouble we go through to achieve posts that are perfectly rounded... the timber beams that support the intricate roof structure are also un-refined tree trunks, instead of cylindrical-shaped beams... truly fascinating.
The ropes that hold the beams together are also beautiful to look at, reproducing tribal motifs with an obvious decorative intention. I couldn't stop taking photos of this structure wondering all the time how much of the building techniques used are intended to entertain the tourists and how much of it comes from a traditional way of building... fascinating.
I love travelling, tasting the local food and drinks and resting of course, but mostly walking aimlessly to discover and experience the architectural differences that distinguish one country from another, one continent from another... The truth is that near or far, at home or away, learning from looking around is what I love doing the most, because Beauty is everywhere.
Beauty Is Where You Find It.
James Treble is an ambassador for Planet Ark and firmly believes in sensible purchasing, recycling and creative re-purposing. James has three decades of accumulated experience in the Building Industry, Real Estate and Interior Design and regularly shares his knowledge and experience in adding value to properties through effective design & styling. Watch his free videos on YouTube, and follow him on Facebook and Instagram for more free information. More of James' knowledge is now accessible via Practical Design Online Course.
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