San Diego, Calatrava: A Poem of Movement

Author: Alexander Zinnes [Dutch]
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2006-05-31
Features: In this century surrounded by specialized and fragmented things, few designers can be called polymaths, but Santiago Calatrava is one of the rare exceptions. Rooted in the Swiss School in practice, the Spanish architect creates a poetic and unique form from structure and movement in his architectural, engineering, sculptural, and furniture designs. After blending art and science, technology and architecture, Calatrava's bridge and building designs present a solemn and elegant presence within the specific urban context. Through dynamic curves, inclined vertical elements, and mechanically controlled roofs, these buildings exhibit a latent kinetic energy. In this book, Alexander Zinnes discovers that Calatrava's "poetic movement" is not only evident in his large-scale design works but also in his paintings and sculptures. The book introduces 35 of Calatrava's design projects, each accompanied by photographs, illustrations, and sketches. It includes some of his recent works—such as the Milwaukee Art Museum expansion and the Lisbon Oriental Station—as well as many of his renowned masterpieces—like the Jukka Hill Communication Tower and the Alamillo Bridge.