Product Description

Peter Zumthor has described what really constitutes an architectural atmosphere as "this singular density and mood, this feeling of presence, well-being, harmony, beauty...under whose spell I experience what I otherwise would not experience in precisely this way." Zumthor is passionate about the creation of buildings that produce this kind of effect, but how might one actually set out to achieve it? Atmospheres is a poetics of architecture and a window onto Peter Zumthor's personal sources of inspiration. In nine illustrated chapters framed as a process of self-observation, Zumthor describes how he creates the atmosphere of his houses. Images of spaces and buildings that affect him are every bit as important as particular pieces of music or books. From the composition and presence of the materials to the handling of proportions and the effect of light, this book enables the reader to understand what really matters in the process of house design.

Product Details

• Amazon Sales Rank: #66346 in Books
• Published on: 2006-06-01
• Original language: English
• Number of items: 1
• Binding: Hardcover
• 75 pages

Customer Reviews

Its 'NOT' Thinking Architecture
The book is written as a dialogue taken from a lecture, which has had minimal editing. This gives a good insight into Zumthors thinking and inspirations from the cuff,so to speak.

The disappointment is that there is not a lot of grounding theory or thoughts as well defined like those in his essays in 'thinking archtecture'. My feelings are that some ideas are repeatative but presented from a different perspective.

However if you are a true Zumthor fan, you would know that there is not a lot of published material so when its there! Get it!

We'd all be lucky to have coffee with Pete...
This book reads much like an actual conversation with Zumthor, one set in an old cafe, perhaps in the early morning on a cold day, yet the sun is still pleasant.

Simply this is a minimal lecture on our being in our immediate environments. Zumthor literally speaks to you, and you get an excellent look into his mind, how he experiences a place, his opinions on the important of how a place feels, sounds, looks, and so on, and his humor as he delivers the lecture as well. Definitely a must for any student of architecture. "Thinking Architecture" by Zumthor is also highly highly recommended.

Great Purchase
Very happy with the book i bought! Great quality book either in contents and manufacture. I recommend!! Zumthor is the master!