Where Buildings Dream: A Poetic Exploration of Modern Spanish Architecture

This captivating tome delves into the depths of Spain’s architectural soul, weaving a tapestry of concrete and dreams that speaks to both the rational mind and the intuitive heart.

Published in 2018 by the esteemed Barcelona-based publishing house Gustavo Gili, “Where Buildings Dream” is not your typical architecture book. It eschews dry technical jargon and exhaustive floor plans in favor of a more poetic and evocative approach. Authored by the renowned Spanish architect and architectural historian Paloma Fernández Durán, the book invites readers to embark on a journey through the vibrant landscape of contemporary Spanish architecture.

Durán’s eloquent prose acts as a bridge between the tangible structures and the intangible emotions they evoke. She masterfully interweaves historical context with insightful analyses of individual buildings, highlighting the unique characteristics of each architect and their respective contributions to the evolving architectural discourse in Spain. The book is structured thematically rather than chronologically, allowing readers to explore specific concepts such as “Urban Fabric,” “Light and Shadow,” and “Materiality” through a carefully curated selection of architectural marvels.

One particularly striking feature of “Where Buildings Dream” is its stunning visual presentation. High-quality photographs by renowned architectural photographer Fernando Guerra capture the essence of each building with breathtaking clarity and artistry.

These images are not mere documentation; they are evocative works of art in their own right, imbued with a sense of wonder and awe that transcends the purely functional nature of architecture.

Exploring Thematic Threads

Here’s a glimpse into some of the key themes explored in “Where Buildings Dream”:

• Urban Fabric: Durán examines how contemporary Spanish architects are navigating the challenges of dense urban environments, creating innovative solutions that integrate seamlessly with existing historical contexts while forging new pathways for urban living. Projects featured in this section range from revitalized industrial complexes transformed into vibrant cultural hubs to meticulously designed residential buildings that prioritize communal spaces and sustainable practices.

• Light and Shadow: Spain’s unique climate and intense sunlight play a pivotal role in shaping its architecture. Durán delves into how architects utilize light and shadow as fundamental design elements, crafting spaces that are not only aesthetically pleasing but also responsive to the changing rhythms of the day. From soaring atriums bathed in natural light to meticulously designed courtyards offering respite from the midday sun, the interplay of light and shadow is explored as a defining characteristic of Spanish architectural sensibility.

• Materiality: Durán celebrates the diversity of materials employed in contemporary Spanish architecture, ranging from traditional stone and brick to innovative sustainable materials. She explores how architects use these materials not merely as structural components but as expressive elements that contribute to the overall identity of a building.

Beyond the Visual:

“Where Buildings Dream” transcends the purely visual by delving into the philosophical underpinnings of Spanish architecture. Durán’s insightful essays explore the influence of historical traditions, cultural context, and contemporary social concerns on the built environment. She analyzes how architects grapple with issues such as sustainability, accessibility, and the role of public space in shaping a more just and equitable society.

A Timeless Treasure:

“Where Buildings Dream” is not merely a book about architecture; it is an invitation to contemplate the profound relationship between human beings and their built environment. Through its evocative prose, breathtaking photography, and insightful analyses, this book reveals the transformative power of architecture to inspire, challenge, and ultimately enrich our lives. It is a timeless treasure that will continue to captivate and enlighten readers for generations to come.