The most visited architecture website in the world, ArchDaily, is a true institution. The best architectural works of the modern era can be found in The ArchDaily Guide to Good Architecture. The book outlines what the “Ten Principles of Good Architecture” state must be accomplished by the art of building both now and in the future.
ArchDaily took the opportunity to reflect on the more than 40,000 projects it has curated over the past 15 years, to distill their contributions, and to respond to the provocative question of what constitutes good architecture in collaboration with renowned international publisher Gestalten. The sheer size of ArchDaily is a reflection of how significant architecture is in today’s society, as our built environment is under increasing pressure and demands as a result of the world’s growing complexity. Architecture must become more open to addressing problems like the climate crisis, energy scarcity, population density, social inequality, housing shortages, rapid urbanization, diminished local identity, and a lack of diversity.
Book Review
In light of this, the book stands out as a spotlight on the most avant-garde and revolutionary architectural projects of our time—those that not only serve a practical purpose and are aesthetically pleasing but also lay the foundation for a sustainable and better future. The book features a wide range of featured projects that are all based on the ten good architecture principles that ArchDaily’s expert team painstakingly developed. These range from actual buildings to imaginative designs, and each one embodies the standards for superior architectural design.
The book invites readers to take a journey through a variety of projects that spark the imagination, from a cleverly sunken restaurant offering underground vistas to the transformation of a Mediterranean cave into an extraordinary home. These global collaborations reveal the common values of a group that helps to create the environment we live in.
The featured architects, who are leaders in their field, contribute their knowledge to answer the general question of what makes good architecture. In his provocative foreword, renowned architect Alejandro Aravena sets the stage for the discussion by delving into the fundamental nature of architecture.
Shaping Reviews and Projects
Insightful interviews with forward-thinking architects like Jeanne Gang (Studio Gang, USA), Isay Weinfeld (Isay Weinfeld Studio, Brazil), Francis Kéré (Francis Kéré Architecture, Burkina Faso), Craig Dykers (Snøhetta, Norway) and Alejandro Aravena (ELEMENTAL, Chile) are also included in the book. They demonstrate that architects are more than just master craftsmen of physical structures; they are also storytellers, thinkers, and visionaries. Their accounts offer a fascinating window into the complex tapestry of architectural design and are an invaluable resource for both aspiring architects and people who value the elegance and inventiveness that architecture can bring to our lives.
These interviews go beyond the idea of a typical conversation and act as windows into the innovatory inner sanctums of the architects. The discussions reveal the intricate workings of their creative processes and give a behind-the-scenes look at their inspiration sources.
About Gestalten
An international publishing house called Gestalten was established in Berlin in 1995. To identify and capture trends in modern visual culture, design, fashion, architecture, and living, as well as nature, mobility, travel, and food and drink, Gestalten frequently collaborates with the biggest names and most exciting players in the creative world.
Whether in the form of iconic books or the digital sphere, Gestalten is renowned by millions of people all over the world for its creativity, inspiration, and high visual standards. Since 2014, Gestalten has also been releasing picture books for kids under the name Kleine Gestalten.
Book Insights
The book begins with an overview of the fundamental ideas behind architecture, outlining what it is and how important it is in influencing the world we live in. It offers insights into the development of architecture, highlighting important movements, styles, and key figures who have influenced the industry.
Design Principles: The book explores the fundamental design principles that direct the development of architecture.
Environmental Impact and Sustainability: The book places a strong emphasis on the value of environmentally friendly architecture and sustainable design.
The book investigates the relationship between architecture, urban planning, and the larger context of towns and cities.
Materials and Construction Methods: Sections that discuss various building materials and construction techniques, as well as their advantages and disadvantages in various situations.
Technology and Innovation: The book discusses how technology is influencing the field of architecture, including digital design tools and sustainable building techniques.
Case Studies: It contains case studies and examples of illustrious architectural endeavors from around the globe. These case studies show how design principles and sustainable practices can be successfully applied.
Future Trends: The book also makes predictions about possible developments in architecture, including the effects of new technology, shifting urban environments, and changing design preferences.
The book has shared a cross-section of some of the most inspiring innovators, ideas, and amazing feats of architecture that we’ve thus far encountered on our ongoing explorations in discovery and dialogue. These innovators, ideas, and incredible feats of architecture range from visionary architects, emerging and established, to the topics and trends driving us toward a better-built future.
It is more than just a book; “The ArchDaily Guide to Good Architecture: The Now and How of Built Environments” is a contemplative exploration that cuts across time and space. It inspires us to look at the present and take a peek at the future of architecture by engaging with the visions, principles, and voices of architectural giants, showing how this profound art form can address the most important problems facing our planet.
References
Kemper, C. (2022) Gestalten – The Archdaily Guide to Good Architecture, THE Stylemate. Available at: https://www.thestylemate.com/gestalten-the-archdaily-guide-to-good-architecture/?lang=en (Accessed: 25 August 2023).
gestalten EU Shop (no date) The ArchDaily Guide to Good Architecture, gestalten EU Shop. Available at: https://gestalten.com/products/the-archdaily-guide-to-good-architecture?utm_campaign=arcda&utm_medium=ArchDailyAnnouncementArticle&utm_source=ArchDaily (Accessed: 24 August 2023).
Basulto, D. (2022) The ArchDaily Guide to Good Architecture, ArchDaily. Available at: https://www.archdaily.com/987050/the-archdaily-guide-to-good-architecture-book-buy-gestalten (Accessed: 24 August 2023).
