School of Architecture's Eric Strain built his career as owner and chief architect of prestigious firm AssemblageSTUDIO. Now he’s added associate professor to his title. He hopes to impart the importance of sketching and the real meaning of "sustainability" on his students.
Why UNLV?
I’m on my second tour of Las Vegas. I returned 24 years ago specifically because UNLV had started a School of Architecture. When I left Las Vegas, UNLV did not have the school. I saw within the school a potential to change this region’s approach to design from an academic and professional level. To come back now and be part of that potential has been a lifelong pursuit.
Where did you grow up?
Las Vegas. My family moved to Las Vegas in 1969. (I’m a) Chaparral High School graduate.
What inspired you to get into your field?
My grandfather introduced me to architecture. He was a design-build contractor in Salt Lake City and was the first to show me how to draw.
What’s the biggest challenge in your field?
As we progress through computer-aided programs, to not lose the ability to sketch. There is a strong impetus on the computer within the field that has created new forms and ways to construct, but the ability to think and sketch quickly your ideas is a skill this profession needs to maintain. There is a direct connection between the hand and eye and how that translates to construction.
One tip for success?
There is always someone better than you out there…
We hear a lot about sustainability in relation to architecture.
First off, sustainability is not new — maybe it’s been "repackaged" in a shiny marketing campaign — but it has always been present in authentic work.
Architecture moved to a one size, one look to fit all situations — all contexts, all environments, all uses. Fire stations look like houses. Schools all look the same. A house in Southern California looks just like a house in Vegas or Phoenix, right down to the names of the streets. So for a generation or two, sustainability — or an authentic response to project or environment — was practiced by only a few. Dealing with mass consumerism or a global scale was predominant. And now sustainability, in its new package, has become this new-found "ism" overtaking all forms of discussion.
What makes sustainability difficult in Southern Nevada?
This environment is harsh, with stucco wrapped around every project. The question is really, "What are we leaving for our kids — the next generation?"
When the primary design discussion is ONLY "cheaper and quicker" you have to ask yourself if Las Vegas really only has a certain limited life cycle in a transient society? When or what needs to change to make Vegas home?
Sustainability as the new "ism" can't do it alone. It takes an attitude change to “Vegas is Home.” We can't spend 20 years living here talking about some other place as home. Vegas needs to be home. (Only) then we can begin to see schools that are beacons/icons of their neighborhood not just looking like another but "belonging " to your specific neighborhood. Houses will begin to address materials that will survive this environment.
Who was your favorite professor and why?
There was more than a single individual. (As a whole, it was) the ability of each of them to express their individual opinions while still respecting the others that stood out. As a student it was eye-opening to witness the passion of their individual convictions while debating design but still being able to have a beer together after.
Proudest moment in your life?
Being a father.
Pastime or hobbies?
Jet skiing. Reading
