What is Architecture? And 100 Other Questions

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In our ArchDaily Interviews, we've been asking architects to give their answer to the question "what is architecture?" for years, and the answers we get are often provocative, in many cases provoking more questions in greater detail. Unfortunately, we haven't yet had the chance to pose this question to Rasmus Wærn & Gert Wingårdh of Wingårdh Arkitektkontor; fortunately, their new book released on September 1st, "What is Architecture? And 100 Other Questions" gives us a great insight into the minds of these two practitioners through a series of question and answers which are as provocative and entertaining as they are poignant.

All this week, we've been sharing short, single question excerpts from the book, exploring just a fraction of the questions raised by the volume. Read on for links to all seven excerpts, and for your chance to win one of five giveaway copies of the book.

What is Architecture?

Short answer: The built image of ourselves.

Who Decides What Architecture Is?

Short answer: The trusted, the elected, and those with the money.

Is Architecture Necessary?

Short answer: No. Some people will always be strong enough to make it anyway.

What Is the Worst Thing About Architecture Today?

Short answer: Ceilings.

Is the Architect an Authoritarian?

Short answer: No. Don't confuse the responsibility of proposing solutions with the power to execute them.

Can't We Design Buildings to Look Like They Used To?

Short answer: Sure we can. But everything will always bear the mark of its own time.

How Long Will Modernity be Dressed in Glass?

Short answer: As long as you can claim that glass is almost nothing.

We're giving away 5 copies of "What is Architecture? And 100 Other Questions." Enter for your chance to win via the form below:

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What is Architecture? And 100 Other Questions

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