Text K.S.
Photography Kathy Lo
Giancarlo Valle describes his career as a “work in progress.” It’s true that instant gratification is hard to come by in architecture, but we’re not sure we believe him. His list of clients includes designers Jason Wu, Phillip Lim and Thakoon—and he’s only a grad student. “When I am not trying to finish my architecture thesis at Princeton University, I dabble in a variety of design work, from apartments to stores to stage sets to office spaces to children’s playpens.” Does fashion week count as a playpen? Anyway, we’re humbled by Valle’s academic rigor and laundry list of accomplishments. Especially one he was anxious to highlight: yes, that is a real tan.
What’s the number one perk in your profession?
Architects are experts at being overly general. We are trained to know a little about a lot. This killer combination requires massive A.D.D. and relentless patience.
What’s the sleaziest part of your job?
Hunting for jobs. Probably not that different from other professions.
What gets you up in the morning?
My iPhone alarm, and a new set of challenges.
What’s one thing your parents taught you that turned out to be true?
Having a strong hunch can carry you very far. I am also a firm believer in the power of persuasion.
How do you make the world a better place?
I believe I am in a profession that strives towards this motto. Today, environmental issues are at the center of our work, but I think many times we choose to ignore them to satisfy other, more aesthetic demands.
Where do you hide out?
When in New York: my favorite coffee shop in Greenwich Village. When in Princeton: The D-Bar.
If you were Obama, what’s one thing you would do for your country?
Besides installing a basketball court at the White House…
Name three reasons to be in a good mood right now.
1. Obama
2. My new squash racket.
3. Michigan Wolverines can only improve from last year’s season.
How do you stay alive during fashion week?
I stay alive by avoiding fashion week almost altogether, other than a few exceptions: my girlfriend Jane Keltner, Jason Wu, and Thakoon. This season’s set [for Jason Wu] originated from his Arthur Rackham-inspired collection. We wanted the mood to be more theatrical, and envisioned a sort of enchanted forest. The set design was actually finished before the news that Jason’s dress had been chosen by Michelle Obama cast him into the national spotlight. But obviously the anticipation and expectation became very high in light of that, and in fact, we had to adjust the design a little so he could accommodate more guests. It was exciting to be a small part of the show. I consider myself to be just an observer in the world of fashion, but I take take great
inspiration from it, nonetheless. I find the speed and ruthlessnessquite refreshing compared to the slowness and politeness of
architecture.
