The New York based architect Gisela Stromeyer comes from a family of fourth generation German tentmakers. Her father Peter Stromeyer, in partnership with the renowned architect Frei Otto, pioneered exciting innovations in the history of tensile structures. Gisela uses fabric not to create shelter, but to visually and texturally enhance existing spaces. Her sensuous creations can be found in a variety of locations such as private homes, stores, showrooms, theater sets, promotional events and office spaces.
Each of Stromeyer's installations begins with a meticulous examination of the room's frameworks. She develops sketch drawings into finished plans and scale models, then cuts and sews the fabric herself. 'My architecture training taught me how to perceive and define spaces and to turn my vision into a built form. It was my experience as a dancer, however, that allows me to sense space as movement. Spaces are fluid.' while she is aware of the logic behind conventional rectilinear spaces, Stromeyer is drawn to building with fabric because it allows her to create sensuous, moving forms. When accented by light, the graceful symmetries of the forms come to life. 'Architecture can be so linear and rigid. It's usually not shaped like the human body, so it rarely reflects our natural longings for softness, flexibility and flow. We long for spaces that not only contain us, but allow our spirits to soar as well.'
She has been published in magazines and news papers all over the world, like Metropolitan Home, Interior Design, Elle, Decor, Interiors, Harper's Bazaar, New York Times, Metropolis, iD Magazine, VM&SD, Fabrics and Architecture, Suedkurrier, Leonardo, Vogue Brazil, Architecture und Wohnen. And her work has been shown on TV, like ZDF German television and ARD and Kultur Chanel Germany.
She was honored with five awards for outstanding achievement in design and fabrication of the IFAI and best of furniture award by iD magazine.
