Mecanoo. Composition, contrast, complexity

Since starting up in 1984, the Dutch practice Mecanoo has achieved international recognition winning a number of awards, including one at the recent art biennial in San Paolo, Brazil. The Dutch exhibition, organised by the two founding partners (Henk Döll and Francine Houben) presents their most recent work: the library for Delft University of Technology (1997), the Dutch Open-Air Museum in Arnhem (2000); housing in Nieuw Terbregge (2000), and the Cultural Centre in Alkmaar (2000). A series of photographs accompany models of the buildings; whilst a number of videos and computers allow the projects to be seen in further detail and provide the opportunity to explore the studio’s web site. An interdisciplinary approach combining architecture, landscape and urban planning (applied well in the Delft library) and the relationship between architect and client (who creates an additional dimension to which to respond to) are the central elements in the architecture of Mecanoo. The exhibition is strongly characterised by the colour blue, use of which occurs frequently in their work until 25 February Netherlands Architecture Institute (NAI), Rotterdam

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Exterior Library Delft University of Technology (1997). Photo Christiaan Richters

A house turns its back on the road to open up to the landscape

The single-family house project designed by Elena Gianesini engages in a dialogue with the Vicenza landscape, combining tranquility and contemporary style through essential geometries and the Mazzonetto metal roofing.