Il colore delle idee

Abstract

The myth of white in architecture has ancient roots partially sprouting from a classic ideal revived by modernism that now seems to acquire new values. Also in light of its current global dissemination – from the US to Europe and Japan – white architecture cannot be considered as a fad, nor can it be reduced to a mere Mediterranean character. Fran Silvestre Arquitectos’ production exemplifies the complexity of this phenomenon with its presence in the contemporary international scene and a range of works, mostly housing designs, of remarkable quality. The trajectory illustrated in this book partially results from the re-reading of the modern as well as Mediterranean architectural tradition, and has additionally benefitted from a constant experimentation on construction techniques, technologies and materials. The choice of white for these architectures is not disconnected from spatial principles – quite the opposite, as it contributes to composition, highlights its effects, underlines its contrasts and consistency, and affects the relationships between forms and the relations with the site. Designing white architecture means above all enhancing the importance of light, form, space and its perception.