Gerhard Mack Book order

The Elbphilharmonie is Hamburg’s new landmark and is already an icon of contemporary architecture. In this book, Herzog & de Meuron document their project: extensive archive material, plans, and photographs are used to illustrate the process of the creation of this once-in-a-hundred-years building from the first sketch and the various design stages with their many challenges, through to completion of the finished building. The dialog between historical brick plinth and contemporary glass crystal, the combination of different functions, the development of the spectacular large concert hall, the design of a public plaza for the population are just some of the many aspects that contribute to the attractiveness of the building.

Sustainability has become a guiding principle of the twenty-first century. For the architectural office Bob Gysin + Partner BGP, this is not only an ecological premise but also stimulates and drives its architectural work. They have been setting standards with this approach for forty years and count among the leaders and pioneers in the European architecture scene. The catalogue presents their modes of thought and methods and provides insight into their planning and implementation practices, which can be attributed to the uniqueness of their projects-from the Chriesbach aquatic research institute to the new headquarters of Greenpeace. It is furthermore an opportunity to address the simultaneous practice of architecture and art and their interconnectedness with sustainability. At the same time, it repeatedly succeeds in transgressing boundaries as well as connecting social involvement and cultural relevance with one another.

The book explores the innovative approaches of Herzog & de Meuron in preserving and transforming historical architecture, particularly their work on the Park Avenue Armory in New York. Originally built in 1881 for the National Guard, this culturally rich site has undergone a thoughtful transformation that intertwines restoration with modern elements. The architects' multi-layered strategy emphasizes the importance of revealing historical structures while integrating new features, showcasing how architectural evolution can harmonize tradition and innovation.

Describes the library designed by Herzog & de Meuron in collaboration with artist Thomas Ruff.