Design Thinking: Thomas Hale Architects on Architecture and Interior D

At Hale Architects, architecture and interiors are conceived together. We spoke with Thomas Hale about why material continuity and spatial clarity create buildings that feel coherent long after completion.

Editor’s Note

Architecture and interiors work best when considered together. This conversation explores that relationship in practice.

Foundations

Do you approach interior planning at the same time as architectural design?

Always. Separating them creates tension later. Ceiling heights influence lighting, window positions influence joinery, structural rhythm influences cabinetry. If these are considered together from the start, the building feels whole.

What role does proportion play at an architectural scale?

Proportion governs how light sits in a room. A slightly lower ceiling can create intimacy; a taller opening can elongate perspective. These are small adjustments but they dramatically alter atmosphere.

Material Continuity

How important is material consistency from exterior to interior?

Very. If a building is brick externally, I often try to echo that texture internally — perhaps through clay plaster or exposed structural detail. It creates a subtle narrative.

Where do projects most commonly go wrong?

Over-complication. Too many gestures. Architecture benefits from reduction. The more elements introduced, the harder it becomes to maintain clarity.

Long-Term Thinking

What makes a building age well?

Simplicity and quality. When materials are allowed to weather honestly — timber greying, stone softening — the building gains character rather than deterioration.

Key Takeaways

Architecture and interiors should be conceived simultaneously.
Reduction strengthens clarity.
Honest ageing adds depth over time.

Closing Reflection