Pompei – architect unknown – personal archive

Big picture 

Our world is composed not only of the new but of everything that has come before. Ancient ruins and historical landmarks remind us of our roots and the lessons we can learn from the past. The beauty of the craftsmanship and the architectural heritage shapes our experience. The interaction between architecture and environment is a fascinating reflection on the relationship between human creativity and nature. Cities and landscapes embodies our visions of progress and our cultural identities. Reflections about architecture are not only limited to the physical world. Architecture defines us, influences us and shapes our mind.  As we ponder upon reflections on architecture, we should be reminded of the profound impact it has on our lives.

1314 Bologna – personal archive

Judging your own pictures 

The concept of the Italian journey is not only about travelling through the Italy but about travelling as a form of learning from the past. Of course it refers to the Italienische Reise written by Goethe which in bigger picture refers to Voyage en Italie which means that travelling and studying the land of Italy is a part of being finally an architect. Personally I do not know how you can reach a sense of maturity in architecture without extensively studying what was happening in the lands of contemporary Italy. All great architects like Michaelangelo, Corbusier, Khan or Zumthor did it.

Reflecting on the history of architecture is crucial for anyone aspiring to become an architect. If I could offer advice to young architects, it would be to travel and gain perspective. Personally, my journey in Italy has been an ongoing exploration of different ways of seeing and approach which gave me freedom, the most valuable asset that you will ever have.

In today’s world just like in the past you gonna learn about architecture not between the faculties but between the buildings. Travelling gives you the perspective and most importantly a big picture. A big picture is something that only a few will finally find. At the end architecture like in the past consist of philosophical idea of the time we live in and materials we use to define it.

1956 Stockholm – personal archive

Reflections about Leverentz 

Craftsmanship in architecture emphasizes the significance of paying close attention to detail. Architects who value craftsmanship recognize that even the smallest details can greatly impact the quality of a building. Great architecture must  have the potential to withstand the test of time and become important landmark.

Leverentz has worked closely with builders, engineers, and other specialists to ensure that his designs are executed with precision and attention to details. Peter Zumthor embraced the same mindset. Another important lesson that flows from Leverentz is the importance of collaboration and teamwork. 

One of the key principles of holistic approach is the rational use of materials and construction techniques. This allowed Leverentz to create buildings that were more efficient and cost-effective to build, as well as more durable and sustainable. Important thing to say is that best architecture is not expensive. 

The lessons learned from Leverentz brings us to the term of Gesamtkunstwerk. The importance of Gesamtkunstwerk lies in its ability to create a holistic and immersive artistic experience. Gesamtkunstwerk has tremendous implications for the role of art and architecture in society through the history. 

910 – 1747 Bologna – personal archive

The Reason of the past _ Über die Kontinuität

In a famous lecture once, Jacques Herzog vaguely defined architecture as the “art of addition”. Jacques presented the current architect’s approach to confronting centuries-old structures such as the city. The city is a sign of the past for millions of people who built the given structure over the centuries. The approach that Jacques proposed was pioneering for its time because it took into account the context of the place. The term “enrichment” used by Adam Caruso to depict the evolution of architecture over time also comes to mind. A strong aspect of continuity in the city is a key concept. The issue of continuity is now gaining even greater significance in the context of the contemporary definition of architecture.

The continuity of architectural styles and structures provides a tangible connection to our past, offering a lens through which we can explore and understand the journeys of our ancestors. Every architectural style, be it gothic or modernist, encapsulates the influences and ambitions of the era from which it originated.

1845 – 1848 Potsdam – personal archive

Architektur als eine Raumskulptur

Cooming soon