Sibylle Kramer strana 2 z 2

Shipping containers are the most conspicuous symbol of the globalized world economy 20 or 40 feet of pure steel reduced to the essentials. They are robust, standardized, inexpensive, universally available, and quickly assembled. Whether as single units, piled on top of each other, or placed in a row, covered or cut open contemporary architecture uses containers as extremely versatile elements for a great variety of contexts. Their esthetic of practicality accommodates minimalistic temporary solutions, experimental design concepts, as well as highly demanding and complex building structures. The contemporary projects presented in this volume showcase the many functional and creative faces of the utilization of containers. Almost everything seems possible in the developing field of container architecture."

Without having to rely on the power of engines, sailing yachts glide effortlessly through the waves, fulfilling dreams of freedom, adventure, luxury or relaxation. Next to the challenges posed by using materials and spatial concepts that must withstand the forces of wind and water, designers and shipyards must also creatively comply with the increasingly extravagant wishes of the owners. Current trends include extremely flexible fittings that turn the time spent on board into a very special experience such as a cockpit table that converts into a sun bed with a simple twist of the hand, or into an inviting lounge at the push of a button. This book presents a selection of 40 sailing yachts constituting the entire range of available models of this type of boat from racers to cruisers, and from the 7 meter-long maritime design gem to the luxury-class mega-yacht with a length of more than 100 meters. Welcome on board "

The concept of taking the existing material as an idea is what is behind the expression Rough Interiors . The building and rooms are taken as they are and the traces of the past are preserved in the sense of remaining visible, into which the design concept is integrated. Old shells are given a new life with the aid of very different design interventions. It is the breaks, contrasts and contradictions instead of perfect harmony and smooth surfaces which characterise these works. The interiors presented range from low-budget to luxury projects. A fascinating interplay between past and present emerges in the interplay of rough ceilings, un-plastered walls and visible concrete beams together with creative re-use ideas, modern materials and innovative form language.

Since the origin of the villa culture in ancient times, the term villa has been invested with a special magic. Seen formerly as a genteel country estate and companion piece to city palace, today this type of dwelling is represented more as a refined, noble, free standing house. The villa is the gleaming diamond of housing construction, the expression of distinguished living style and elevated standard of living. For an architect, the planning or reconstruction of a villa represents the exciting challenge of a new interpretation of a classical building task, guided by their own, special ideas. This volume portrays famous architects as well as exciting works by younger architecture firms. The international selection shows the manifold and intriguing spectrum of contemporary architecture.

Motor yachts are the essence of luxury, comfort and boundless freedom. Their design and fittings stand for premium quality. Motor yachts as swimming mansions are exposed to very particular conditions which confront the boat designer with special challenges. The materials must be able to withstand the forces of wind and weather, and spatial concepts must adapt to the special physical characteristics of water. The selection of approximately 60 motor yachts, each presented on at least two double pages, covers the entire spectrum of this species of boat: from relatively affordable, serially produced motor yachts, to the 150 meter long, one-of-a-kind luxury mega yachts. The volume is an invitation to discover and explore the maritime fantasies and visions of the 21st century.