Wiel Arets: Autobiographical References opens up a unique and richly layered view of the architectural work and thinking of this internationally renowned Dutch architect. Underlying Arets practice, research and teaching is his concept of "a wonderful world", an optimistic outlook on how the world will evolve in the next 75 years.In addition to portfolios of 60 exemplary projects and designs by his studio, this book presents 5 lectures, and 5 debates between Arets and other thinkers and practitioners, as well as an extensive series of 10 interviews with Arets.
More than simply presenting his work alongside essays and project descriptions, Wiel Arets: Autobiographical References reveals the interaction between Arets biography and his architectural thinking, teaching and design in the evolution of his distinguished career.
As well as being a congenial interview partner, Robert McCarter, Professor of Architecture at Washington University (St. Louis), provides an insightful concluding essay on Arets dialogical practice. The multi-layered content finds perfect form and expression in the exceptional book design and layout by Irma Boom Office.
Robert McCarter is a practicing architect and has been Ruth and Norman Moore Professor of Architecture at Washington University in St. Louis since 2007. He taught previously at the University of Florida, where he was Director of the School of Architecture from 1991 2001, and Columbia University, among others. He has also been Director of the Museum of Finnish Architecture (1978-83) and Rector of the Institute of Industrial Arts, Helsinki (1972-4).
