This is a pivotal time for urban regeneration. We must take a long term view.

Architecture is about public space held by buildings.

In Florence, classical buildings sit against medieval buildings. It's that contrast we like.

Technology cannot be an end in itself but must aim at solving long term social and ecological problems.

My passion and great enjoyment for architecture, and the reason the older I get the more I enjoy it, is because I believe we - architects - can effect the quality of life of the people.

Dyslexia, though, made me realise that people who say "but you can't do that" aren't actually very important. I don't take "no" too seriously.

I'm just saying that there are high quality materials, and when we change them then there should be a way of changing them so that you can celebrate that change - rather than just 'mix it up'.