MAYNE, THOM
"Morphosis: Recent Works" is the fourth in a series of monographs featuring the works of individual architects by PlanetArchitecture.com. Over the past three decades Thom Mayne, principal of Morphosis, has designed some of the most exciting and innovative buildings to be seen in the U.S. and abroad. His non-traditional exploration of architecture, which transcends materials, forms, and tectonics, embody an architecture rooted in time, place and purpose. Featured are two recently completed buildings: Hypo Alpe-Adria-Center in Klagenfurt, Austria and Diamond Ranch High School in Pomona, U.S. The conceptualization of landscape and building as one is further developed in the Hypo Alpe-Adria-Center, the headquarters for a bank, which through urban patterns attempts to reconnect with the fabric of the city. The conceptualization and design of Diamond Ranch high School similarly draws upon relationships with the larger landscape beyond its own boundaries. The results are marvelous forms that play with and against the sloping site, and framed vistas that connect with the scenery beyond. Also included are five projects in various stages of design and development. Extensive use of computer models, drawings and renderings illustrate the extensive lengths Thom Mayne explores each project.
This CD-ROM features an intuitive, multi-referenced interface used to access the entire e-archive (electronic archive) of video interviews, photographs, writings, virtual reality panoramas, and drawings. The unique graphical interface takes full advantage of the interactive media and makes the self guided explorations both user friendly and enjoyable. This e-archive provides comprehensive documentation and virtual experiences unparalleled by any single medium. Nearly 50 photographs of interiors, exteriors, and details document these projects like never before. 36 virtual reality panoramas (allowing 360 degree panning) take you there "virtually." An extensive 33 minute video interview with Thom Mayne brings new insights in understanding the Architect behind Morphosis. A comprehensive collection of drawings, models, and computer renderings (over 140 in all) illustrate the conceptual ideas and process of developing the unusual forms and structures. A text and photo based introduction by R.E. Somol provides a new perspective on Thom Mayne, the principal of Morphosis.
