About Buildings + Cities

In the third episode of our Plečnik miniseries we talked about a couple more churches and the cemetery of Ljubljana. Specifically we discussed: the Church of St Michael, Črna Vas or the Church of St Michael in the Marsh (Cerkev sv. Mihaela na Barju); the Church of St Anthony of Padua, Belgrade (Црква Светог Антуна Падованског) and Žale Central Cemetery, Ljubljana (Centralno pokopališče Žale). Watch this episode on YouTube to follow along with images: https://youtu.be/m2Lhu-3TpuE Edited by Matthew Lloyd Roberts. Support the show on Patreon to receive bonus content for every show. Please rate and review the show on your podcast store to help other people find us! Follow us on twitter // instagram // facebook We’re on the web at aboutbuildingsandcities.org This podcast is powered by Pinecast.

In the second episode of our miniseries on Jože Plečnik, we discussed four of his early church buildings, each representing a unique interlacing of early Christian architecture, 20th century classicism, and his idiosyncratic approach to style, detailing and planning which give all his buildings such a unique atmosphere. In this episode we discussed: St. Bartholomew's Church, Ljubljana (cerkev sv. Jerneja) Church of the Most Sacred Heart of Our Lord, Prague (Kostel Nejsvětějšího Srdce Páně) Church of St. Francis of Assisi, Ljubljana (Župnijska cerkev Frančiška Asiškega) Church of the Ascension, Bogojina (Cerkev Gospodovega vnebohoda) Watch this episode on YouTube to follow along with the images: https://youtu.be/szuyRFu0wis Edited by Matthew Lloyd Roberts. Support the show on Patreon to receive bonus content for every show. Please rate and review the show on your podcast store to help other people find us! Follow us on twitter // instagram // facebook We’re on the web at aboutbuildingsandcities.org This podcast is powered by Pinecast.

This is the first episode in a new series about the Slovenian architect Jože Plečnik, who blended inspiration from deep antiquity with the modern sensibilities he learnt as a student of Otto Wagner (subject of a previous ABC miniseries episodes 79–83). Here we discussed his upbringing and education, time in Italy and his idiosyncratic classical sources from Etruscan deep time and late antiquity. Later his career and earliest commissions in Vienna and Prague, especially the Zacherlhaus, Church of the Holy Spirit and his interventions at Prague Castle. To follow along with the images, find this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/a8S9gA6_j6M Edited by Matthew Lloyd Roberts. Support the show on Patreon to receive bonus content for every show. Please rate and review the show on your podcast store to help other people find us! Follow us on twitter // instagram // facebook We’re on the web at aboutbuildingsandcities.org This podcast is powered by Pinecast.

The discussion dives into the complexities of Rem Koolhaas's 'SMLXL', focusing on its 'XL' section and urban planning challenges. The hosts critique modernist ideals and explore the chaotic nature of contemporary cities. They advocate for vibrant public spaces and innovative designs amidst urban decay and critique the inadequacies of existing city dynamics. The analysis extends to unique architectural proposals, including an undulating library design in Paris, underscoring the interplay of aesthetics and functionality.

Dive into the fascinating concept of 'bigness' in architecture, exploring its allure and implications. Discover how modern design can shift from cold slab-like structures to more human-centric spaces. Engage with critiques on high-tech aesthetics versus functionality, and delve into inventive proposals like a unique library and imaginative towers. Learn about blob architecture and its influential figures, while examining the chaos and contradictions in architectural narratives. It's a rich tapestry of innovation, history, and creative challenges.

This is a preview of a bonus episode available on our Patreon feed, please support the show on Patreon for full access: https://www.patreon.com/c/about_buildings In this bonus we talked about the book-within-the-book, the series of quotations and definitions which run the breadth of the alphabet through SMLXL. It includes the usual Koolhaasian mixture of high and low culture, actress's memoirs, advertising, technical manuals, pornography and even Luke's dad! Edited by Matthew Lloyd Roberts. Support the show on Patreon to receive bonus content for every show. Please rate and review the show on your podcast store to help other people find us! Follow us on twitter // instagram // facebook We’re on the web at aboutbuildingsandcities.org

Delve into the chaotic yet coherent themes of architecture through Rem Koolhaas's work. Explore the evolution of prison design, from historic panopticons to modern rehabilitation methods. Discover the tension between architectural ambitions and societal realities, highlighted by a building's troubled legacy. Enjoy a creative critique of design through a comic narrative, and uncover how cyberpunk aesthetics influence urban proposals. The discussion emphasizes the playful and innovative aspects of contemporary architecture.

Dive into the revolutionary chaos of Rem Koolhaas's iconic work, SMLXL, a striking blend of post-modern design and provocative content from the 90s. Explore the complexities architects face in balancing creativity with commercial demands, alongside a humorous critique of urban landscapes. Discover the aesthetic evolution of architectural documentation and the significance of movement in design. Plus, understand how political contexts intertwine with architectural philosophy and the enduring impact of Koolhaas's ideas on today's practitioners.

Dive into the pulse of contemporary architectural culture with insightful reflections on current trends and emerging themes. Discover the intrigue behind the Sainsbury Wing’s controversial design alterations and a hidden letter revealing its legacy. Delve into unionization efforts shaping the industry while exploring the often-overlooked contributions of architects like Denise Scott Brown. Plus, ponder the role of AI in architectural education and its potential impact on creativity. From Tehran to Vegas, witness innovative designs responding to urban challenges.

Discover the fascinating world of Beaux-Arts architecture and its rich tradition of design education. Delve into the unique terminologies and concepts like 'poche' and 'Parti,' pivotal in shaping modern architectural practices. Explore the intricate dynamics of spatial arrangements, particularly in public spaces, and the balance between creativity and established norms. Enjoy insights into the artistic challenges of architectural pastiche and the decline of quality in contemporary designs. Embrace the journey of creativity and imperfection in architectural development!