EL Croquis 226: OFFICE 2017-2024 -9788412823417

描述

This monographic issue examines recent work by Belgian architects Kersten Geers and David Van Severen and their Brussels-based firm, OFFICE, which was established in 2002 as a means of exploring the prospect of architecture within the contemporary culture and urban environment. Currently a team of about 40 architects, it has evolved a practical and pragmatic approach to design in which architecture becomes nothing less than a civic obligation. An overview of 25 projects, including a crematorium, dental clinic, and art gallery, is introduced by a conversation with Giovanna Borasi, director of the Canadian Centre for Architecture in Montreal, and the two founding architects.

 

OFFICE is a Brussels-based architectural practice founded in 2002 by Kersten Geers (Ghent, 1975) and David Van Severen (Ghent, 1978). The two met while studying at Ghent University and ETSAM (Escuela Técnica Superior de Arquitectura de Madrid). OFFICE was created as a means to explore the future possibilities of architecture within contemporary culture and the urban environment. While building a theoretical blueprint for architecture, OFFICE has developed a practical and pragmatic approach to design, combining skill and cunning in favour of an expeditious decision-making process, to make architecture a civic duty.

In parallel to their practice, OFFICE has conducted project workshops at various institutions, such as the USI Academy of Architecture, Mendrisio – where Kersten Geers is currently a Senior Lecturer – and Harvard GSD, where Kersten and David serve together as Architectural Design Critics. This educational activity – and the various project research results – is in direct relation to their practice and is documented under the motto “Office Without Office” .

OFFICE is a team of about 40 architects, organized as a partnership led by Kersten Geers, David Van Severen and Jan Lenaerts, together with associate members Justine Rossillion, Alexander Smedts, Jacopo Lugli, Inga Karen Traustadottir and Jelena Pančevac.

Works and Projects

Solo House

Incubator

Crematorium

Office Building
[Kortrijk]

Dental Clinic

Residential complex
[Vettenburg]

Tondo

Public Library

Art gallery

Olive Oil Mill

Villa IV

Art Room

Brewery

Department store

Office Building
[Belliard]

University Campus

Residential Complex
[Starlette]

25 Columns

Radio & Television Building
[VRT] II

Twin Towers

Care Center

Van de Velde’s Atelier

Megafactory

Community Center

Faculty of Architecture