Ney Filho is the architect responsible for creating
Sertão Grego , one of the most unusual spaces at
CASACOR Ceará 2019 , where the Zoi restaurant was located. The space was the result of an imaginative relationship established between the sertão of Ceará - with its fauna, flora, colors and folklore - and the Greek world, its forms and mythology. The result was a project that aims to be a separate, fantastical and free universe, in which these two cultures geographically separated by oceans come together and merge. But Ney doesn't limit himself to architecture, he also works as a landscaper and DJ! His projects carry much of his irreverent spirit, diverse training and deep connection with his homeland, Ceará. In an interview with
CASACOR , he shared a little about his creative process, his influences and also revealed some details about his space in the
Janelas CASACOR project! Check out the interview below.
How did the idea of bringing together two such distant places, the backlands and Greece, come about? And how did the fusion between these worlds come about? Sertão Grego emerged from the good relationship between me and the restaurant's operations. Zoi is a Greek restaurant and its chef is recognized for his innovative use of Ceará products with an international twist. So, in line with the restaurant's cuisine, essence and DNA, I observed and absorbed this universe. The result: Ceará and Greece, of course! But which Ceará and which Greece? For me, it would be clear that the sertão would be included, since it is my great inspiration. Greece, on the other hand, came from my memories of European summers, from Mykonos. That was it, it was done! Thus,
Sertão Grego was born, a sweet name that is pleasant to say.
In addition to being an architect, you are also a landscaper and DJ - does your broad worldview help when designing? I think that experiences help in the creative process. Of course, if you try more flavors, you have more chances to expand your palate. This is useful when creating. The universe of music, landscapes and our brands are huge supplements that, together with academia, form a more secure base when it comes to design. None of this is more important than a good relationship with the client, but developing social skills is indeed a big differentiator.
How do your roots influence your creations? It is impossible for artificial elements that are disconnected from my culture to be part of my projects. One example is plants that do not belong to my biome. I also do not design without taking into account the winds and the light. My region is very rich and I make use of this in a firm way. My roots guide my colors, my inclination for crafts. My love for my Ceará makes me a global architect with feet firmly planted in the land of José de Alencar.
You were one of the first enthusiasts of the new Janelas CASACOR project. Will reflecting on post-pandemic living be a challenge? CASACOR , represented by Neuma (Executive Director of the
CASACOR Ceará franchise), was the great supporter of my career. This family believed in my work and made me believe that I could practice my profession in a less orthodox way, I just had to be ethical, original and happy. That's how I was able to grow and work in my field. I am so grateful. That said, I heard about the
CASACOR Windows project very superficially, in fact I only knew the name. I told Neuma, "I'll go anywhere with you, I'm in!" My passion was right, the project is wonderful, democratic, happy, social, far-reaching, modern, and super connected to our new times! I believe this model will be replicated forever. The new way of living, the new dwelling, will be built over the years, over time. What I realize is that the new is very similar to the old: the simplest, the most objective, the multipurpose, the calm. These are the characteristics on which I will base my Janelas. It will be a balcony. A cheerful, happy, airy balcony. It will have a hammock, action and calm, a restlessness.
