Fabrics are frequently used for temporary architecture and interior design. As a result of current research and new technology new types of fabrics have been developed with special qualities in terms of load, elasticity and ductility. These can be used also for structural designs, for example in the design of fa ades, so a wide range of new possibilities for its usage is available now. This volume presents 60 international architecture and design projects that show by means of texts, photos as well as plans and drawings the different ways how fabrics are used today.

Glass stands for openness and transparency. In contemporary glass architecture these associations are utilized in a subtle and highly intentional way. Some buildings appear low-key and reduced to express elegance and seriousness, other provide deep insights to set a stage for profiling and a vivid exchange between inside and outside. In either case innovative glass buildings generate unexpected perspectives, individual communication channels and a temporary feeling of freedom in an actually closed spatiality. In this title about 60 projects from

Street furniture is the secret star of urban outdoor design. Though rarely noticed at first glance, it significantly contributes towards the urban experience. Benches, fountains, street lamps, rubbish bins, post boxes, tourist information signs, bus stops as well as public toilets are items that reoccur in various urban spaces. Just like outstanding monuments and landmarks, they determine the identity of a square, street or town. This volume introduces 100 exceptional examples of contemporary street furniture, presenting both items that are one-of-a-kind as well as objects that are part of a...

Theaters, concert halls and opera houses belong to the main building tasks of our times. Numerous cities as well as communities are adding stage buildings for performing arts to their cultural infrastructure and are renewing historical buildings. The acoustics and stage mechanisms are adjusted to modern requirements, while the standards of the in-house technology and the amenities for visitors are decidedly improved. Prestigious projects for various towns and states result in extraordinary buildings. These not only convince in terms of their interior design, but also make an impact on the...

Serving as gateways to the cities, train stations were the most important urban building developments at the turn of the 20th century. One century later this building mission is experiencing a fascinating renaissance. On a world-wide basis new facilities are emerging that need to fulfill various functions ? so very often they have to serve as shopping malls. However, even small stations for regional trains, subways and trams belong to the past, if they are purpose-built only. They also have an important influence on the urban identity. Just like the larger facilities, they have to be able to...

Buildings and spaces bearing traces of the past that are integrated into new functional and artistic concepts are galvanizing the architecture and design scene. As a result of the increased awareness of sustainability issues and growing appreciation for existing building structures more and more often the decision is being made to convert rather than demolish - sometimes also because of economic considerations. This volume explores the question of the functional and creative possibilities emerging from revitalization that respects existing structures. The projects carefully selected for this...