Victor Salina Furio

Washington, DC

What sparked your interest in architectural design?

I don’t have any family member who is an architect or a designer. I made the decision that I wanted to become one at an early stage of my life. It was in high school, when I was 14 years old. My art professor taught me all about Ancient Greek architecture, Renaissance architects, The Golden Number, Fibonacci sequence and its influence, etc. I felt in love in such a way with this art that I immediately wanted to be a part of it in the future.

How would you describe your design style?

I would say that my style is constantly evolving. I try to make sure that all the experiences I have in life, I absorb them and implement them into my style. I pay attention to my surroundings, to what other architects have previously done, and to other expressions of art. The inspirations that I get from them will directly affect my style, slightly changing the final aesthetic of my design. Nevertheless, I do have some preferences; since I am colorblind, I identify myself projecting with white and grey scale materials. Regarding shapes, I enjoy experimenting with unconventional forms; stackable units, diagonal walls, circular doors, etc. One of my main purposes while I am designing, is to create an experience. I would like people to remember my designs for being unique, something that they haven't been able to experience before, and will remember in the future.

Where do you draw inspiration for your designs?

Any representation of art influences me. Contemporary Art, Fashion Design, and Music are constant inspirations. Daniel Arsham, Yohji Yamamoto, and A Tribe Called Quest are some of the artists I admire with a special mention to my life partner, and muse: Laura Arana Castillo.

You also take amazing photos. What is your personal process to capture a great image?

While I am taking a picture, I try to emphasize what I see through my eyes. In other words, I attempt to highlight those aspects of the building that inspire me. My Photography work is known for being de-saturated, almost black and white geometrical architecture pictures. As previously mentioned, I am color blind; part of my style consists in de-saturating the photography so people can see and perceive buildings the same way I do.

Which photographers have influenced you and how did their influence your work?

Jennifer Bin, Minh T, and NIK. All of them have a powerful photography style. Jennifer uniquely captures futuristic landscapes, showing the rest of us the way she sees the cities. Regarding Minh, I love his architecture preferences and the way he selects every shot and tonality. Last but not least, I draw a lot of inspiration from NIK’s work, his minimalism sense and aesthetic are phenomenal.

What is your dream job?

My dream job is the one that allows me to materialize all my ideas, the one that allows me to take my schemes from concepts to reality, and more importantly, the only that allows me to enjoy and love what I do.

What quote or motto do you live your life by?

Always strive and prosper, everyday aspire to become the best version of yourself.

For more information on this artist, please visit vcsafu.com and follow on social media at @vcsafu