Robyn Byn
Gloria, please introduce yourself:
I am Gloria, also known as Robyn Byn, a trained architect, content creator and model, constantly in search of beauty in everyday life.
Z33 Francesca Torzo, Robyn Byn, Photo: © Anka Kuznyetsova
#1 How did you come to study architecture?
I was always interested in architecture, but it took me a few detours to actually pursue studying it. At the beginning I started with modeling and working as a content creator but eventually found it more exciting to be behind the camera in order to realize my own projects in a better way.
Like in any creative field, I’m always in search of beauty. I always had the urge to capture what I experience through photography. During my travels, I began capturing local architecture and if I remember correctly, it was after a solo trip to Rome that I finally made the decision to study architecture.
#2 How does architecture influence your view of fashion?
Architecture has broadened my perspective on fashion by helping me pay more attention to structures, shapes, and details. I’ve learned to observe things more consciously and deeply— essentially, questioning things I buy, wear and like more.
Before this, I almost blindly followed the status quo of beauty without questioning it, whereas now I consciously reflect on it. Now I ask myself „is it practical“ or „is it wearable?“ more. Much like in architecture, I also consider functionality.
MUDEC Chipperfield, Robyn Byn
#3 How would you describe your personal clothing style?
Minimalistic, androgynous, chic.
I almost exclusively wear oversized pieces and love layering. I find it exciting to combine different cuts, silhouettes, colors, and fabrics with each other—especially when it comes to darker tones. In summer, this isn’t always easy, but that's why autumn is my favorite season.
I have a particular fondness for shirts and blouses with unique cuts, often with oversized cuffs or striking collars. I like it when clothing has an artistic, asymmetrical touch. Monochrome suits and two-piece outfits are also among my favorites, as they combine elegance with a clear, minimalist style.
#4 How do you combine your passion for architecture and fashion on your Instagram account @bynrobyn?
My feed is a mix of architectural photography and spaces that I find inspiring or have visited, along with portraits or styled looks that come from my work as a content creator. The beauty of it is that both areas are so deeply embedded in my life that this combination happens quite naturally.
The intersection between these two worlds is photography, which is where it all started for me. Through photography, I found a way to unite and capture both of my passions. I am a very visual person and often think in images or describe a particular feeling or atmosphere that I want to express through pictures.
Hotel Nomad Buchner Bründler, Robyn Byn, Photo: © Sinah Osner
#5 Which fashion trends would you like to integrate into architecture?
This is difficult to answer, as I don’t really follow trends. However, one fashion hype that I’ve noticed particularly among Gen Z is the rise of wearing vintage or secondhand clothing, which has made the awareness of more sustainable fashion almost feel second nature.
What we are increasingly seeing in architecture in terms of material reuse and circular design is still in its early stages. In this regard, the fashion industry is a step ahead of architecture. Whether it is truly successful or not is up for debate, as there is a lot of greenwashing happening as well. For me, the important thing is that these topics are being talked about more and that general awareness is being raised.
I think many people outside of the architecture field are unaware that the construction industry is responsible for 40% of global CO2 emissions and 60% of global waste. Even more striking, only about 1% of building materials are actually reused, despite significant potential for recycling. Given that both industries are significant contributors to the climate crisis, I certainly hope this isn't just a passing trend.
#6 Favorite new possession over the past year?
The Ikebana vase by Fritz Hansen. Especially when the winter blues set in, small things like a flower arrangement in this vase bring me joy.
Ricardo Bofill, Robyn Byn, Photo: © Sinah Osner
#7 How do you see the role of an architect in today’s society?
I see the role of architects in today’s society as an opportunity to create spaces that improve people’s lives, offer dignity, and provide a better quality of life—especially in growing cities and in terms of affordable housing.
It is part of an architect's responsibility to think beyond the mere construction of buildings and to find solutions that strengthen communities and respect the cultural context. We often talk about sustainability, but we tend to get lost in discussions about alternative energy sources.
Sustainable building practices have existed for many years. It is more a matter of the will to revive this knowledge. Sustainability is not just about using new technologies but also about rediscovering our cultural heritage.
#8 How does the urban environment influence your fashion choices?
That’s a good question. To be honest, it probably happens unconsciously for me. I always have a camera with me—even if it’s just my smartphone—and I love capturing beautiful moments. Just this morning, when I had my daily walk, I saw a maple tree with yellow leaves in front of a gray office building from the 60s. Imagine this striking contrast on a quiet Sunday morning, surrounded by warm gray tones. It wasn’t only an architectural moment, but could work well as a look combination, too.
I approach things similarly in the digital space. I collect images of artists, films, landscapes, food, graphics, and packaging. Beauty is everywhere—even in a sink filled with dirty coffee cups and half-empty wine glasses, there’s a certain aesthetic to be found.
All of these influences certainly impact my personal style in one way or another.
privates Wohnhaus Belgien, Robyn Byn, Photo: © Sinah Osner
#9 Three things that inspire you at the moment:
Recently, I watched In the Mood for Love by Wong Kar-Wai for the first time, and it completely blew me away. The cinematography, the colors, and the camera work at just the right moments—especially in the slow-motion scenes—are impressive. Highly recommended!
I’m also inspired by Carrie Mae Weems' exhibition The Evidence of Things Not Seen (Basel, 2023), which addresses social injustice and racist structures. I find her photo series The Kitchen Table Series (1990/1999) particularly fascinating, as it captures the complex life of a Black woman in the context of her kitchen—simply brilliant!
Lastly, I love the small architectural models by Mary Duggan on her Instagram.
#10 What do you currently read, watch, listen to?
Read: Die Wut, die bleibt by Mareike Fallwickl
Watched: Nobody Wants This on Netflix
New discovery: Breathe by Emma Nissen on Spotify
pivates Wohnhaus Belgien, Robyn Byn, Photo: © Nina Zoe
Links
Instagram: bynrobyn
Photo Credits: © Robyn Byn, © Anka Kuznyetsova, © Nina Zoe, © Sinah Osner
Interview by Caroline Steffen