Architectures, Vol. 1
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An excellent assortment of buildings is highlighted on this disk, and though the architecture is beautiful what truly makes these disks worthwhile is how the filmakers place the architecture in its society and elaborate on the building’s role in it. Architecture’s social, political, and aesthetic aspects are all touched upon in these vignettes, providing one with a unique view of the structures. These videos are better than some books, even, not only in their depth but also because through film one gets a unique view of the building and how it “lives” in its environment. Very informative, always beautifully shot, the “Architectures” series is a thought-provoking addition to any architectural library.
There are times when I think the French are completely incapable of anything coherent, and then I encounter something like this. This is an excellent series. Comes in three different languages (French – spoken, and German and English – voice-overs and subtitles). Some of the verbage is a bit over the top and grandiose, but the coverage of the different architectural examples is always excellent. Where they can, they include interviews with the architect; always show work drawings and detailed graphical diagrams; always show detailed examples of current life within the results, along with honest discussion of some of the practical problems encountered during design, construction, and maintenance.
The only thing you could wish for is coverage of more examples. Even with five different volumes with coverage of six designs per volume, a hard core architecture junkie would have several hundred (thousand) more examples for the list. In addition, they were smart enough to let each design speak for itself. For example with Walter Gropius, you can see why Bauhaus does/does not work for you, without the usual lecture on why you should/should not worship at that particular altar.