Last year, we had great feedback when we proposed the question of which books to include in an architecture library. After spending the better half of the year in Scandinavia, I have found my architecture library to be filled with new additions.
While back in New York, I had enjoyed these firms’ work and theories, only once I took residence in Scandinavia did I feel a strong urge to totally immerse myself in the local talent of Denmark, Sweden and Norway, educating myself as much as possible about their sensitivity toward the environment, their sophisticated aesthetics and material choices.
Now, my architecture library includes pieces about contemporary firms such as Dorte Mandrup, Cebra and JAJA, in addition to classic names of the region like Arne Jacobsen. I’ve found myself comparing projects of larger firms – take, for instance, Snohetta and Schmidt Hammer Lassen and Henning Larsen Architects. Plus, I’ve developed a new interest in Finnish architecture as many young firms, such as Avanto Architects, K2S Architects, Verstas, Anttinen Oiva Architects and so on, are producing dynamic work that should be better known internationally for the country’s architecture is more than just Aalto and Saarinen.
My collection also includes a great museum book from the Louisiana Art Museum in Copenhagen. We’ve featured the exhibit, Living: Frontiers of Architecture, and the book is a great summary of the exhibit and a perfect addition to my library.
So, what new books does your architecture library hold? Whether you need some inspiration or have some inspiration to pass along, share your thoughts with us!
