Ambassador of life in old houses

Jan Šimnovec, a 29-year-old architect from Kamnič, has become known as an ambassador of life in old houses. His work focuses on renovating historic buildings, preserving their cultural heritage while adapting them for contemporary use. He was recently spotted in Berlin, part of both his professional duties and personal travels. “Berlin is a fascinating place, I’ve been here three times and each time I’m inspired by its architecture, design, galleries, and museums. Here, creativity flows before I return to my completely different Slovenian environment,” he explained. Šimnovec describes himself as more than just an architect. He identifies as a sustainable designer, a participatory architect, a supporter of preservation and renovation of heritage, and a researcher of virtual reality. When asked who he is primarily, he responded, “Too many things interest me to say I am only an architect. Interdisciplinary approach to work and life is essential to me.” He emphasizes that being a participatory architect means seeing the relationship between architects and users differently. Rather than positioning himself as all-knowing, he focuses on engaging with people and their needs. For him, meaningful dialogue allows the creation of spaces that are both architecturally sound and responsive to the user’s requirements. Over the past few years, Šimnovec has focused exclusively on renovations rather than new constructions. This decision stems from his fascination with how to create something meaningful within constraints, both financial and spatial. During his studies, he explored this creativity through research at Slovenia’s Faculty of Architecture and during exchanges in Germany and later at Stanford University. Working in foreign offices further broadened his perspective on how to build a career based on his interests and how to live off these dreams. However, Šimnovec stresses that advocating for one approach, either new construction or renovation, is not sufficient. While new construction will always have a role in the future, the field of renovation receives less public attention and support compared to new developments. The entire industry is optimized around new projects, often viewing older structures as outdated. There is still a stigma attached to working with old buildings, which he believes should change. Renovated homes or apartments may not smell new, but they offer something more. Šimnovec argues that living in renovated houses is distinct because the walls carry stories. He works mainly with two types of clients: older generations who inherit buildings from their ancestors, and younger generations who purchase old buildings and see them as opportunities for a new chapter in life and a way to escape urban stress. Both groups share a respectful attitude toward cultural heritage and a desire to shape new communities within new environments. His work involves extensive conversations with clients, sometimes even with their predecessors, who built the objects. Unwritten, non-material heritage holds immense value for him. It is rewarding to witness satisfaction among all generations, the new ones who will use the space and the old ones who see their efforts preserved. Despite his youth, Šimnovec has already undertaken several notable renovations. One particularly impactful project is the revitalization of the Kreativna četrt Barutana, a creative district that showcases his commitment to community engagement and sustainable design.