Three concepts

Since the 1980s, Peter Zumthor's buildings have exerted a quiet and autonomous authority within the contemporary architectural landscape. The craftsmanship of his buildings, their physical presence, simplicity and sensitive use of materials create an extraordinary impression. All of Zumthor's projects proceed from a patient search for a basic composition. So-called structural paintings provide first clues about the design and, at the same time, evoke in themselves a meditative pictorial atmosphere. The publication presents this "world of pre-figurations" with the examples of three new projects by the architect. Conceptual and structural sketches and texts by Zumthor recount the genesis of the Thermal Baths in the mountain village of Vals (opened in 1996), of the art museum in Bregenz (opening in 1997) and the memorial and museum building Topography of Terror in Berlin (planned). A series of plans and photographs of the models or realized buildings complete the documentation.