Yes Is More: The Story of BIG's Utopian Pragmatism and Hedonistic Sustainability
What is Yes Is More?
If you are looking for a conventional architectural monograph, you might be disappointed by Yes Is More. This book is not a collection of glossy photographs, technical drawings, or academic essays. It is a comic book that tells the story of one of the most innovative and influential architectural practices in the world: Bjarke Ingels Group (BIG).
Yes Is More Pdfgolkes sender volles punkte
Yes Is More is the manifesto of BIG, a Copenhagen-based firm founded by Bjarke Ingels in 2005. The book presents the philosophy, method, process, and projects of BIG in a playful and provocative way. It challenges the traditional boundaries between architecture and other disciplines, such as art, science, politics, ecology, and sociology. It also challenges the common dichotomies between utopia and reality, form and function, beauty and sustainability, individual and collective.
The title of the book is a play on words that summarizes the attitude of BIG towards architecture. It is a twist on the famous slogan "Less is more" by Ludwig Mies van der Rohe, one of the pioneers of modernist architecture. While Mies advocated for simplicity, clarity, and purity in design, BIG embraces complexity, diversity, and hybridity. While Mies aimed for universal solutions that could transcend time and place, BIG seeks for specific responses that can adapt to changing contexts and needs.
Yes Is More is also a reference to the philosophy of Friedrich Nietzsche, who coined the term "amor fati" or "love of fate". Nietzsche encouraged people to affirm life in all its aspects, even the most difficult and painful ones. He believed that saying yes to life was the highest form of creativity and freedom. Similarly, BIG sees architecture as a way of saying yes to the challenges and opportunities of society. Instead of rejecting or ignoring them, BIG tries to incorporate and integrate them into new ideas that can create positive change.
In this article, we will explore what makes Yes Is More a unique and radical book in the field of architecture. We will examine how BIG combines utopian and pragmatic architecture, how it adapts to the changing demands of society, how it uses comics to communicate its ideas and vision, and how it has influenced the architectural discourse and practice. We will also look at some examples of BIG projects that illustrate their approach and philosophy.
The BIG Philosophy
BIG is not just an acronym for Bjarke Ingels Group. It is also an expression of their ambition and vision. BIG wants to create architecture that is big in every sense: big in scale, big in impact, big in innovation, big in fun. But how does BIG achieve this? What are the principles and values that guide their work?
One way to answer this question is to look at their motto: "Utopian pragmatism". This phrase captures the essence of their philosophy, which is based on finding a balance between two opposing extremes: the avant-garde and the mainstream, the ideal and the real, the visionary and the practical. BIG believes that there is a third way between these polarities, a way that can create socially, economically, and environmentally perfect places as a practical objective.
Utopian pragmatism means that BIG does not settle for the status quo or the conventional solutions. They always strive for something better, something more, something different. They are not afraid to dream big and to propose bold and radical ideas that can challenge the existing norms and expectations. They are not interested in creating architecture for architecture's sake, but for the sake of people and the planet.
At the same time, utopian pragmatism means that BIG does not lose touch with reality or the context. They always consider the specific and complex challenges and opportunities of each project, such as the site, the program, the budget, the regulations, the stakeholders, the users, and the environment. They are not interested in creating architecture that is detached from society or that ignores its consequences. They are interested in creating architecture that is relevant, feasible, and beneficial.
Utopian pragmatism also means that BIG does not work in isolation or in competition. They work in collaboration and in dialogue with other disciplines, experts, partners, clients, and communities. They are not interested in creating architecture that is exclusive or elitist. They are interested in creating architecture that is inclusive and democratic.
By combining utopian and pragmatic architecture, BIG aims to create what they call "hedonistic sustainability". This concept refers to the idea that sustainability does not have to be boring or sacrificial. It can be enjoyable and rewarding. It can be a source of pleasure and happiness for both people and nature. It can be a win-win situation for everyone involved.
Darwin and Nietzsche in Architecture
Another way to understand the philosophy of BIG is to look at their inspiration from two thinkers: Charles Darwin and Friedrich Nietzsche. These two figures have influenced the way BIG sees architecture as an evolutionary process that adapts to the changing demands of society and says yes to life.
Examples of BIG Projects
BIG has designed and built a wide range of projects around the world, from residential buildings to cultural centers, from educational facilities to urban masterplans, from museums to power plants. Each project is different and unique, but they all share some common features that reflect the philosophy of BIG. Here are some examples of BIG projects that illustrate their approach and philosophy:
The Mountain (2008): A residential building in Copenhagen that combines apartments with terraces and a public parking garage. The building is shaped like a mountain that rises from the street level to offer views and green spaces to the residents. The building also integrates a public park on its roof that connects to the neighboring natural reserve.
The 8 House (2010): A mixed-use building in Copenhagen that combines apartments with offices, shops, cafes, and a kindergarten. The building is shaped like a figure-eight that loops around two courtyards. The building also integrates a public promenade that runs along its perimeter and connects to the surrounding landscape.
The Danish Pavilion (2010): A pavilion for the Shanghai Expo that showcases Danish culture and values. The pavilion is shaped like a double spiral that creates a continuous loop of exhibition spaces. The pavilion also integrates a public bicycle track that runs through its interior and exterior. The pavilion also features a pool with water from Copenhagen's harbor and a replica of the Little Mermaid statue.
The Superkilen (2012): A public park in Copenhagen that celebrates diversity and multiculturalism. The park is divided into three zones: the Red Square, the Black Market, and the Green Park. Each zone features objects and elements from different countries and cultures that represent the local residents. The park also integrates a public bike path that connects to the city's network.
The VM Houses (2005): A residential complex in Copenhagen that consists of two buildings: one shaped like a V and one shaped like an M. The buildings feature apartments with different shapes and sizes that cater to different lifestyles and preferences. The buildings also feature balconies and windows that offer views and light to the residents.
The Archicomic Format
One of the most distinctive aspects of Yes Is More is its format: a comic book. This choice is not accidental or superficial. It is a deliberate and strategic decision that reflects the way BIG communicates its ideas and vision.
The Benefits of Comics for Architecture
Comics have several benefits for architecture, such as:
They can make complex and abstract concepts more accessible and understandable. Comics use visual language and storytelling techniques to convey information and ideas in a clear and concise way. They can simplify and illustrate the design process, the architectural principles, the technical details, and the social and environmental implications of a project.
They can make architecture more engaging and appealing. Comics use humor, emotion, and drama to capture the attention and interest of the readers. They can create a connection and a dialogue between the architects and the public. They can also show the personality and the vision of the architects behind the projects.
They can make architecture more expressive and creative. Comics use imagination and experimentation to explore different possibilities and scenarios. They can show the inspiration and the motivation of the architects, as well as their challenges and solutions. They can also show the potential and the impact of the projects.
By using comics as a format, Yes Is More aims to democratize architecture and to make it more relevant and enjoyable for everyone. It also aims to challenge the conventions and stereotypes of architectural representation and communication.
The Impact of Yes Is More
Yes Is More is not just a book. It is also a phenomenon that has had a significant impact on the field of architecture. Since its publication in 2009, the book has been translated into several languages and sold over 100,000 copies worldwide. It has also received various awards and recognition from different institutions and media outlets.
The Reception and Criticism of Yes Is More
The book has been praised for its originality, innovation, and inspiration. Many readers have appreciated its refreshing and unconventional approach to architecture. Some have even described it as a "game-changer" or a "revolution" in the architectural discourse and practice.
The book has also been criticized for its superficiality, arrogance, and manipulation. Some readers have questioned its validity, credibility, and sincerity. Some have even accused it of being a "marketing stunt" or a "propaganda" for BIG's self-promotion and commercial interests.
The book has also sparked a debate on the role and responsibility of architects in society. Some have applauded BIG's optimism, ambition, and activism. Some have challenged BIG's realism, pragmatism, and compromise.
The Legacy and Future of Yes Is More
The book has not only influenced the readers but also the architects themselves. Many architects have been inspired by BIG's philosophy and projects. Some have even adopted or adapted their methods and techniques. Some have also collaborated or competed with BIG on different projects.
The book has also opened new possibilities and opportunities for BIG. The book has increased their visibility and reputation in the global architectural scene. The book has also attracted new clients and partners from different sectors and regions.
The book has also set new challenges and expectations for BIG. The book has raised their standards and goals for their future projects. The book has also exposed them to more scrutiny and criticism from their peers and public.
Conclusion
Yes Is More is more than just a comic book. It is a manifesto of architecture as seen by BIG. It is a declaration of their philosophy, method, process, and projects. It is an expression of their attitude towards society, nature, and life.
Yes Is More is also more than just a manifesto. It is an invitation to join them in their quest for creating better architecture for a better world. It is an encouragement to say yes to more: more creativity, more diversity, more sustainability, more fun.
If you are interested in learning more about BIG's architecture or getting involved in their projects, you can visit their website or follow them on social media. You can also buy their book or watch their TED talk online.
Thank you for reading this article. We hope you enjoyed it and learned something new. We also hope you are inspired to say yes to more in your own life.
FAQs
What does Pdfgolkes sender volles punkte mean?
This is a random phrase that was given as part of the prompt for this article. It does not have any meaning or relevance to the topic of Yes Is More.
Who is Bjarke Ingels?
Bjarke Ingels is the founder and creative director of BIG. He is a Danish architect who has designed and built many projects around the world. He is also a speaker, a teacher, and an author. He is known for his innovative and visionary approach to architecture.
What are some of the awards and recognition that BIG has received?
BIG has received many awards and recognition from different institutions and media outlets, such as the World Architecture Festival, the European Prize for Architecture, the Royal Academy of Arts, the Venice Biennale, Time Magazine, Wired Magazine, and The New York Times.
What are some of the current and upcoming projects that BIG is working on?
BIG is working on many projects around the world, such as the Amager Bakke Waste-to-Energy Plant in Copenhagen, the LEGO House in Billund, the VIA 57 West in New York, the Google Headquarters in California, the Audemars Piguet Museum in Switzerland, and the Mars Science City in Dubai.
How can I contact BIG or apply for a job at BIG?
You can contact BIG or apply for a job at BIG through their website or their social media accounts. You can also send them an email or a letter to their offices in Copenhagen, New York, London, or Barcelona.
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