In Conversation with David Moshe Aviv: Architecture, Sustainability and the Value of Collaboration

Architecture is constantly evolving, shaped by changing lifestyles, technological progress and a growing awareness of our responsibility towards the environment. For architects today, the challenge is not simply to design attractive buildings, but to create spaces that are functional, enduring and considerate of the world around them.

In this interview, architect David Moshe Aviv shares his perspective on architectural design, professional collaboration and the opportunities to make sustainability a more integral part of the built environment.

1. Many people develop an interest in their future careers from a young age. What first inspired you to pursue architecture, and what continues to motivate you today?

Architecture appeals to me because it brings together creativity, technical thinking and the opportunity to make a tangible contribution to people’s lives. I find it fascinating that an idea can develop from an initial concept into a physical space that people will use and experience every day. What continues to motivate me is the opportunity to solve problems through design, explore new possibilities and create architecture that responds meaningfully to its surroundings and the needs of its users.

2. Is there a particular architectural project or professional experience that you are especially proud of?

Every project offers its own challenges and opportunities, and I believe that the most rewarding experiences are often those in which a team successfully brings together different ideas, technical requirements and practical considerations. I particularly value projects where collaboration makes it possible to overcome complex challenges while remaining faithful to the original design vision. For me, success is not measured by the finished building alone, but also by the quality of the process and the relationships developed along the way.

3. Are there any cities, buildings or architectural styles that particularly inspire you?

I am inspired by places where architecture responds thoughtfully to its context. This might be a historic building that demonstrates the value of durability and craftsmanship, or a contemporary development that explores new materials, technologies and approaches to sustainability. I believe there is something to learn from different architectural traditions. The most interesting environments often combine a strong sense of identity with a clear understanding of how people interact with the spaces around them.

4. Sustainability is becoming an increasingly important consideration in architecture. How do you believe architects can create environmentally responsible buildings without compromising design quality?

I believe sustainability should be considered from the very beginning of the design process rather than introduced as an additional feature at a later stage. Decisions concerning orientation, natural lighting, ventilation, materials and energy performance can all influence how a building functions throughout its lifetime. The challenge is to bring these considerations together in a way that remains practical, aesthetically coherent and responsive to the client’s needs. Sustainable architecture should not mean compromising on quality. Instead, it should encourage us to think more carefully about how buildings are designed, constructed and used.

5. You have worked with an environmentally conscious architectural company. What value do you see in collaboration between architects and specialist industry partners?

Collaboration is essential because architecture involves a broad range of disciplines and areas of expertise. An architect may establish the overall vision, but delivering a successful project often requires input from engineers, environmental specialists, material experts and other experienced professionals. Working with the right partners allows different perspectives to contribute to the design process and helps ensure that ideas are evaluated from both creative and practical standpoints. I believe this exchange of knowledge can lead to more considered solutions and create opportunities to integrate sustainability more effectively into architectural projects.

6. How has the architecture industry changed in recent years, and what developments do you consider most important for its future?

The industry continues to evolve as new technologies, materials and environmental considerations influence the way projects are conceived and delivered. Digital design tools have expanded the possibilities for visualisation, coordination and technical planning, while sustainability has encouraged greater attention to energy use, material selection and the long-term performance of buildings. At the same time, clients increasingly expect architecture to respond to several priorities simultaneously: functionality, quality, efficiency and environmental responsibility. I believe the profession will continue to benefit from greater collaboration and a willingness to adapt to new knowledge and changing expectations.

7. What are the biggest challenges in turning an architectural concept into a practical and sustainable building?

One of the main challenges is balancing the ambitions of a design with the practical realities of delivering a project. Budgets, regulations, construction methods, material availability and technical requirements all influence the final outcome. Sustainability adds another important dimension, as decisions made during the early stages can have consequences for a building’s long-term performance. Addressing these challenges requires careful planning, clear communication and cooperation between everyone involved. The earlier different specialists contribute their knowledge, the greater the opportunity to identify practical solutions without losing sight of the overall vision.

8. What advice would you give to young architects and graduates who want to build a career in contemporary and sustainable architecture?

My advice would be to develop a strong foundation in architectural principles while remaining curious about the wider industry. Practical experience is extremely valuable because it helps young architects understand how design decisions translate into real projects. I would also encourage graduates to explore different areas of the profession, develop their communication and technical skills, and learn from people with experience across different disciplines. Sustainability is an area in which continuous learning is particularly important. Building a successful career requires patience, commitment and a willingness to keep questioning how things can be done better.

9. What role should established architectural practices and industry leaders play in encouraging more sustainable design, and what opportunities do you see for future collaboration?

Established practices and industry leaders have an opportunity to influence the direction of the built environment through the standards they set, the projects they deliver and the knowledge they share. Collaboration between experienced architects, emerging professionals and specialist partners can help bring innovative ideas into practical application. I believe there is considerable potential in developing stronger professional relationships, exchanging expertise and learning from successful approaches to sustainable design. Progress depends on a collective willingness to explore new methods and recognise that environmental responsibility is a shared consideration across the industry.

10. If you had to describe your architectural philosophy in three words, what would they be, and why?

Thoughtful, collaborative and enduring. Thoughtful, because good architecture begins with understanding the people, purpose and environment behind a project. Collaborative, because the best outcomes often emerge when different skills and perspectives come together. Enduring, because I believe architecture should be designed with a long-term view, considering not only its immediate impact but also its usefulness, quality and relationship with its surroundings over time.

Looking Ahead

For David Moshe Aviv, architecture presents an opportunity to bring creativity, technical expertise and environmental awareness together in meaningful ways. As the built environment responds to changing expectations and sustainability becomes an increasingly important consideration, collaboration between architects and specialist industry partners can help broaden the possibilities for responsible design.

The future of architecture will depend not only on new technologies and materials, but also on the willingness of professionals to exchange knowledge, challenge established practices and consider the long-term consequences of their decisions. Through thoughtful design and collaborative working, the industry can continue exploring ways to create spaces that serve people while respecting the environments in which they exist.

At our company, we share the ambition to encourage a more considered approach to architecture by bringing together in-house expertise and the capabilities of experienced industry partners. Conversations such as this provide an opportunity to explore the ideas and professional perspectives that can contribute to a more sustainable built environment.

Discover more insights into architecture, responsible design and the people helping shape the future of the built environment in our journal.