Hairchitecture: The Fusion of Architecture and Hairstyle

An Innovative Concept Pushing the Boundaries of Design

HAIRCHITECTURE results from an association between a hairdresser - Gijo, and a group of architects - FAHR 021.3. Motivated by the European Capital of Culture in Guimaraes 2012, they propose an idea to merge two creative methodologies, Architecture & Hairstyle. With the brutalist architecture theme, the result is an amazing new hairstyle denoting a transfiguration hair in absolute communion with architectural structures. The results presented are bold and experimental nature with a strong contemporary interpretation. Teamwork and skill were crucial to make turn a seemingly ordinary hair.

HAIRCHITECTURE, a groundbreaking project by Fahr 021.3 and Fulgêncio Augusto, brings together the worlds of architecture and hairstyling in a unique and innovative way. Inspired by the brutalist architecture of Le Corbusier, Bo Bardi, Niemeyer, and others, this project explores the fusion of these two creative disciplines to create a series of stunning hairstyles that defy convention.

The unique property of this project lies in the unlikely union between architects and hairstylists. By combining their expertise and perspectives, they have developed new ideas that are both attractive and innovative. The result is a collection of hairstyles that transcend traditional boundaries and showcase a transfiguration of hair in perfect harmony with architectural structures.

The realization process of HAIRCHITECTURE was divided into two phases. First, the architects explored the material of hair, illustrating and presenting their ideas to the hairstylist. In the second phase, both parties worked together to bring these ideas to life, utilizing technical skills and additional structures. Some hairstyles were created using traditional cut and coloring techniques, while others were developed using 3D modeling and fabricated with a CNC machine in foam to provide support for the hair.

The project consisted of four essays, each exploring different elements of the brutalist architecture theme. In Essay 01, linear and continuous forms were wrapped by vertical elements. Essay 02 focused on organic structures and volumes as sensorial forms. Essay 03 played with massive sharp volumes, emphasizing gravity. Finally, Essay 04 showcased a raw structure that fit on the head as exaggerated volumes.

The interaction between the architects and hairstylists was crucial to the success of this project. The architects had the opportunity to learn new construction techniques and think about their designs in a completely different time frame than they were accustomed to. For the hairstylists, it was a chance to understand the architectural process from the creative phase to implementation, going beyond the final appearance of a building. The understanding and collaboration between the two parties were essential in achieving the desired cuts, lines, and volumes.

The HAIRCHITECTURE project was realized in Guimaraes, Portugal, starting in 2012. The work was completed in February 2013 at Academia LOreal Porto and presented in March 2013 during the fashion week in Porto. It was later showcased in July 2013 in Guimaraes. The duration of the project allowed for thorough research and experimentation, resulting in the bold and experimental nature of the final hairstyles.

This innovative project has received recognition and accolades in the design world. HAIRCHITECTURE was awarded the Silver A' Design Award in the Performing Arts, Stage, Style, and Scenery Design category in 2014. This prestigious award is given to designs that demonstrate outstanding expertise, innovation, and artistic skill. The project's strong technical characteristics and remarkable level of excellence have captivated audiences and inspired wonder and amazement.


Project Details and Credits

Project Designers: FAHR 021.3
Image Credits: Image #01 FAHR 021.3 Photographer Filipa Frois Almeida, Hairchitecture, 2013; Image #02 FAHR 021.3 Photographer Filipa Frois Almeida, Hairchitecture, 2013; Image #03 FAHR 021.3 Photographer Filipa Frois Almeida, Hairchitecture, 2013; Image #04 FAHR 021.3 Photographer Filipa Frois Almeida, Hairchitecture, 2013; Image #05 FAHR 021.3 Photographer Filipa Frois Almeida, Hairchitecture, 2013; Video Credits: FAHR 021.3, Filipe Lima, Hairchitecture, 2013
Project Team Members: Fahr 021.3 Fulgêncio Augusto
Project Name: Hairchitecture
Project Client: FAHR 021.3


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