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PROFILE:
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CARLO DISTEFANO
space, light, landscape Architecture is large scale art
BY DOROTHY BROTHERTON
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t’s no surprise to trace the growth of a boy into a successful architect and see the similarity to the growth of an idea into a home complex. Carlo DiStefano grew up racing karts with his brothers and dreaming of being a comic book illustrator. Concrete inspired him–no surprise because his family owns a large concrete supply company in Calgary. While studying in Calgary, Montreal and Barcelona, Carlo gained a global design perspective. He worked on architectural projects in Quebec, Ontario and the United States, then returned to Calgary to work with Hutchinson Architects. But the future held his own distinct role. Carlo explains how architecture captured him so completely: “Coming from an arts background the creation and creative process is my driving force. Extend your outdoor experience up to year Architecture is essentially large scale art that deals with space, light, and round with a Sunview Solarium or Conservatory. connections to the landscape and of course this is layered with the functional needs of the building. Bringing all these elements seamlessly together leaves the user feeling inspired and connected to the land, and this is extremely rewarding.” This was the vision that launched DiStefano Architecture. Before long, a prime Kelowna project lured the firm to the Okanagan: Prato Square. It started with the same kinds of creative urges that shaped Carlo’s youth. People dreamed of homes–simple, connected, with an artistic flare. “One of the most rewarding parts of being an architect is being inspired by my clients as we work through ideas for their home or project,” said Carlo. Prato Square sits graciously on the corner of Harvey and Ellis near city centre, offering the dream of a home to 144 families. The first phase is complete, with 48 suites in a seven storey building. Contemporary styling and classic sophistication define Prato Square. The second and third phases will feature outdoor amenity space with trellised rooftop terraces. The fourth phase will nearly mirror the first. When complete, Prato Square will group four buildings around a central landscaped plaza. That outdoor space plus grand scale balconies were main driving points of the design. Affordable suites will be mixed throughout as a commitment to community housing. In the structure you see Carlo’s touch: Smooth-faced brick interplays with rough split-face concrete block. Metal canopies wrap the buildings, cap them and mark entry points. Exposed architectural concrete plinth provides anchor. Still a lover of racing and drawing, Carlo clearly puts his creative urges into 1-800-668-2870 www.sunviewsolariums.ca N his architectural work. Custom Built in Canada, Just for You! Solariums • Patio Covers • Conservatories
Could this be your home?
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