A Dialogue Between Architecture and Landscape: Pu Miao's Architectural Design

Chinese architect Pu Miao explores the development of modern Chinese architecture from a localised perspective, focusing on the integration of architecture and landscape. This volume selects 15 architectural designs from his practice since the 1990s, illustrating four modes of integrating buildings and landscape: using outdoor spaces as alternatives for indoor activities, architecture and landscape each playing a unique role in a functional pair, architecture partially taking the form of landscape, and gardens as urban public spaces in a building. Pu Miao's practice demonstrates that traditional craftsmanship is still possible and inspires architects to imagine and try new possibilities.

Format: Hardback
Length: 216 pages
Publication date: 08 November 2022
Publisher: Tongji University Press

Chinese architect Pu Miao has delved deeply into the evolution of modern Chinese architecture, focusing on a localized approach. Through his extensive experience, he has discovered that integrating architecture and landscape holds great potential for localization. This comprehensive volume showcases 15 architectural designs from Pu Miao's practice since the 1990s, with 12 of these projects having been constructed and extensively documented in international and Chinese professional journals and books. The diverse range of building types includes restaurants, retail spaces, exhibitions, worship centers, residential properties, educational institutions, and public facilities. The projects exemplify four distinct modes of integrating buildings and landscape: utilizing outdoor areas as alternatives for indoor activities; architecture and landscape each contributing their unique qualities to a functional pair; architecture partially adopting the form of landscape; and gardens functioning as urban public spaces within buildings. Through detailed analyses of design concepts, accompanied by a vast array of building photos and drawings, including wall sections for select projects, this book serves as a virtual tour of these remarkable spaces. Moreover, it provides meticulous design documentation, making it a valuable resource for architects and enthusiasts alike. It is noteworthy that Pu Miao's approach to architecture is a departure from the traditional practice of working alone. He has successfully demonstrated that such a traditional craftsmanship-driven mode of practice is still feasible, and in doing so, he has inspired us to believe that architectural practice can be more diverse and imaginative than commonly perceived. While Pu Miao's initial objective may have been to meticulously control building detailing, he has inadvertently become a prominent symbol of independent practice in China. His unwavering dedication and innovative approach have set him apart, showcasing the possibilities that arise when architects embrace creativity and challenge conventional norms.

Weight: 970g
Dimension: 250 x 223 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9787560893167