Expanding Architecture: Design as Activism - Softcover

Bryan Bell; Katie Wakeford; Steve Badanes; Roberta Feldman; Sergio Palleroni; Katie Swenson; Thomas Fisher

Softcover

ISBN 10: 1933045787 ISBN 13: 9781933045788

Publisher: Metropolis Books, 2008

Synopsis

Expanding Architecture presents a new generation of creative design carried out in the service of the greater public and the greater good. Questioning how design can improve daily lives, editors Bryan Bell and Katie Wakeford map an emerging geography of architectural activism--or "public-interest architecture"--that might function akin to public-interest law or medicine by expanding architecture's all too often elite client base. With 30 essays by practicing architects and designers, urban and community planners, historians, landscape architects, environmental designers and members of other fields, this volume presents recent work from around the world that illustrates the ways in which design can address issues of social justice.

About this title

From the Back Cover:

" Any form of development that is to be sustainable has to optimize ecology, economy, and social equity. New models for design and practice--like the inspiring ones in this book--are integrating these realms in ways that can create catalysts for a positive future." William A. McDonough, FAIA William McDonough + Partners

" This collection of exemplary works should become the subject of continuing education for every architect and required of every student early in his or her academic experience. It provides us with a primer for our conscience and meaning for our work." Marvin J. Malecha, FAIA, DPACSA Dean, NC State University College of Design 2009 AIA President

Review:

"...This visually rich book, (published by Metropolis Books) is an inspiring read for anyone, but its clear and instructive descriptions also make it a reference book of sorts for those interested in acting through architecture...

This book presents diverse examples of architectural projects directed towards the greater public good, in stories told from the perspectives of the architects. The stories aren't about the individuals themselves, but about their experiences. As they discuss projects that range from a public transit shelter in a disadvantaged neighborhood to new dwellings in a rural part of Taiwan, each designer describes the design process, challenges they faced and the proposed solutions...

Expanding Architecture is arranged into eight chapters of various topics that allow designers of all interests to relate. As a professional designer, I found it easy to be inspired by a project. What I found extremely helpful was that this book offered guidance on how to proceed with projects in a similar way to those described, showing me exactly how I could make a difference myself. The architects profiled discuss their processes step by step, telling what worked and the actions they took. It's wonderful to have a collection of stories that so strongly makes this point, by showing the broad array of projects that are already making a difference, and hopefully inspiring more like them in the future.

About this edition

• Publisher: Metropolis Books
• Publication date: 2008
• ISBN 10: 1933045787
• ISBN 13: 9781933045788
• Binding: Paperback
• Number of pages: 288