On occasion of the International Architecture Exhibition in Venice Rem Koolhaas wrote the book 'Elements of Architecture'. As a follow-up to S,M,L,XL this encyclopedic tome illustrates the research project lying behind the 14th International Architecture Biennale.

The focus of the book 'Elements of Architecture' is the evolution of the elements used by architects of every age throughout the history of architecture. Doors, windows, ceilings, floors, stairs, balconies, and other basic elements of architecture - often overlooked but universally familiar - are studied, analyzed, and cataloged by means of an endless variety of visual references, from ancient times to modern developments. By looking at the evolution of architectural elements that are common to all cultures, this exploration avoids the classical Eurocentrism that often still characterizes architectural discourse. National identity has seemingly been sacrificed to modernity. Nevertheless, unique national features and mentalities continue to exist and flourish just as international collaboration and exchange intensifies.

On occasion of the International Architecture Exhibition in Venice Rem Koolhaas wrote the book 'Elements of Architecture'. As a follow-up to S,M,L,XL this encyclopedic tome illustrates the research project lying behind the 14th International Architecture Biennale.

The focus of the book 'Elements of Architecture' is the evolution of the elements used by architects of every age throughout the history of architecture. Doors, windows, ceilings, floors, stairs, balconies, and other basic elements of architecture - often overlooked but universally familiar - are studied, analyzed, and cataloged by means of an endless variety of visual references, from ancient times to modern developments. By looking at the evolution of architectural elements that are common to all cultures, this exploration avoids the classical Eurocentrism that often still characterizes architectural discourse. National identity has seemingly been sacrificed to modernity. Nevertheless, unique national features and mentalities continue to exist and flourish just as international collaboration and exchange intensifies.


Rem Koolhaas, winner of the Golden Lion for Lifetime Achievement at the Biennale Architettura 2010, and the Pritzker Prize in 2000, founded OMA (Office for Metropolitan Architecture) in 1975 together with Elia and Zoe Zenghelis and Madelon Vriesendorp. Recently completed OMA buildings led by Koolhaas include the new headquarters for China Central Television in Beijing, a new headquarters for Rothschild Bank in London, the Wyly Theatre, Dallas, and Milstein Hall, an extension to Cornell's College of Architecture, Art, and Planning.