designboom book report: herzog & de meuron 1997 - 2001

author: gerhard mack

publisher: birkhäuser basel

year: first edition published december 1, 2008, available in 2009

size: 352 pages, 33.5 x 24.13 x 3.3 cm

ISBN: 978-3-7643-8640-5

designboom rating:

herzog & de meuron architects have developed a topographical conception of architecture that not
only locates their designs in a larger context but also frequently structures them as landscapes.

the tate modern in london made herzog & de meuron famous all over the world, and the projects
and structures they have built since then are distinguished by the sensitive treatment of materials for
which the architects are known. 'herzog & de meuron 1997 - 2001', is the fourth volume of a set of books
which survey the complete works of the architectural duo every four years. the book is bound with a simple
green cloth hardcover, as to keep the real focus on the extensive pages of images, as well as essays written
by the architect's themselves and how they see their projects in a broader context.

with all the art and design related books out there today, most are focused on the end product,
the finished work. instead, 'herzog & de meuron 1997 - 2001' guides readers through the various stages
of development of a project, taking a look at the entire background / origins of how a concept begins
and evolves with stories about clients and briefs, providing plan and site drawings, concept models,
prototypes and images of the actual industrial process of materials and construction.

is it for me?
this book is a documentary work of reference, giving good insight into the architectural process.

the inspirational pages of work, stories and essays capture the innovation and spirit of
herzog & de meuron's work in great detail and is recommended for those practicing in the field,
as well as architecture and design enthusiasts.
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