For a Novel Architecture: Cine-Roman 2000-2020

This document compiles 20 years of Karim Nader architectural practice and research, presenting 32 projects in an order of thematic correspondences resembling a screenplay. It reconnects all projects in one continuous narrative flow, supporting the sequence of photographic moments. Half of the projects actualise the successes of buildings completed and happily inhabited, while the other remains future potential or aborted attempts. The use of the word "novel" emphasizes the importance of continuously looking at the lived experience of architecture in space and time as its core value, and the requirement for any art to be new beyond the romantic nostalgia of a lost past or the fetishistic celebration of the unknown future.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 228 pages
Publication date: 03 December 2020
Publisher: LetteraVentidue Edizioni srl

This document, presented in the form of a cinematic novel, chronicles 20 years of Karim Nader's architectural practice and research. Thirty-two projects from Karim Nader's current studio and collaborations with Blankpage, Roula, Assaf, Danny Khoury, and others are showcased here, arranged in a thematic order that resembles a screenplay more than a traditional architectural monograph. Re-written for this edition, the text reconnects all projects in a continuous narrative flow, supporting the sequence of photographic moments, which is used exclusively in the absence of other traditional modes of architectural representation.

Some of the projects showcase the successful realization of buildings that are now happily inhabited, while others remain future potential or abandoned attempts, lost forever. This reflects the eternal story of architectural adventure, the challenge of its uncertain path, the temporary pleasures and recurring wonders, the unfulfilled promises, and the unexpected successes that characterize the field.

The use of the word "novel" here does not equate architecture to literature, but rather emphasizes the importance of continuously examining the lived experience of architecture in space and time as its core value, much like in a novel. This perspective seeks to transcend romantic nostalgia for a lost past or the fetishistic celebration of the unknown future, as seen in the novel.

Overall, this document aims to manifest the necessity to live poetically, humanely, and naturally through Karim Nader's relentless passion for architectural practice and the sentimental relationship with every site, every client, and every situation. It serves as a testament to the power of architecture to shape and transform the human experience.

Weight: 785g
Dimension: 290 x 210 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9788862424790