Process and Expression in Architectural Form

Generously illustrated with concept development sketches as well as site plans, section drawings, full schematics, and photographs of finished buildings, this engaging volume focuses on "organic synthesis," the creative process that is architect Gunnar Birkerts's methodology and philosophy.

Birkerts likens his organic approach to listening to music: the music must be heard as it unfolds; an attempt to perceive it all at once would reduce it to noise. Organic synthesis occurs as all aspects of a project present themselves: the building site, the building program and budget, available materials and technologies, emotional or intuitive content revealed through architect-client interaction.

Gunnar Birkerts has practiced architecture since 1950. His years as an apprentice to Eero Saarinen and subsequent work with Minoru Yamasaki significantly influenced his direction. A teacher throughout his career, Birkerts is Professor Emeritus of Architecture at University of Michigan and an Honorary, Latvia. He was named the first Bruce Alonzo Goff Professor of Creative Architecture at the University of Oklahoma.