Way Beyond Bigness: The Need for a Watershed Architecture

Way Beyond Bigness is a design-research project that studies the Mekong, Mississippi, and Rhine river basins, focusing on multi-scaled, water-based infrastructural transformation. It proposes a three-part, integrative design-research methodology to realign watersheds and architecture across scales, disciplines, narratives, and venues. The research critiques and recasts the Oxford Dictionary's definitions for a watershed and architecture and highlights the author's comprehensive work over more than a decade.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 592 pages
Publication date: 25 October 2023
Publisher: Oro Editions

Way Beyond Bigness is a captivating design-research project that delves into the intricate landscapes of the Mekong, Mississippi, and Rhine river basins, with a special emphasis on the transformative power of multi-scaled, water-based infrastructures. This comprehensive book presents a straightforward yet innovative framework, employing a three-part, integrative design-research methodology. This methodology is structured as Appreciate + Analyze, Speculate + Synthesize, and Collaborate + Catalyze, each phase contributing to a holistic understanding of the subject matter.

To achieve this, Way Beyond Bigness reimagines watersheds and architecture across multiple scales, disciplines, narratives, and venues. It realigns these elements to create a cohesive and interdisciplinary approach, bridging the gap between ecologists, economists, hyperbolic thinkers, and pragmatic practitioners. By doing so, the research challenges and redefines the traditional definitions of watersheds and architecture offered by the Oxford Dictionary.

The book showcases the author's extensive and groundbreaking work, spanning over a decade of in-depth field research across the Mekong, Mississippi, and Rhine. This research is complemented by a diverse range of academic and professional collaborations, ranging from speculative to community-based initiatives. Through these collaborations, the author has fostered a deep understanding of the complex dynamics and challenges associated with water-based infrastructure development, while also exploring innovative solutions and strategies for sustainable growth and development.

In conclusion, Way Beyond Bigness is a thought-provoking and groundbreaking work that offers a fresh perspective on the development of water-based infrastructures. Through its innovative framework, interdisciplinary approach, and comprehensive research, the book provides valuable insights and solutions for addressing the complex challenges facing our world today. It serves as a testament to the power of design and research in shaping a more sustainable and resilient future.

Dimension: 229 x 152 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781940743592