Aldo Rossi: The Sketchbooks 1990-97

by Paolo Portoghesi, Michele Tadini, Massimo Scheurer

One of the most influential architects of the postwar era, Aldo Rossi has enriched the world of design and architecture with his imaginative ideas, his people-friendly buildings, and his dedication to teaching. Capturing the essence of Rossi's multidisciplinary approach are his exquisite drawings. From his treatise The Architecture of the City (1966) and his seminal Cemetery of San Cataldo (1971) to his popular Hotel II Palazzo in Fukuoka (1987) and a public housing project in Berlin (1992-98), his paper explorations and renderings have been an integral part of his creative process and a key to understanding the meaning behind his architecture. This delightful volume collects over two hundred of Rossi's most recent and largely unpublished drawings, executed between 1991 and his tragic death in 1997. From his musings on Casa Alessi (1989-94) to more ambitious projects for the Walt Disney Corporation (1996), each drawing conveys the individuality and idiosyncrasy of a master at work. It is too easy to describe these personal and exuberant images as works of art, for they are much documents, records, visions, and illuminations of a master at work. 226 illustrations, 191 in color.

192 pages, Hardcover

First published October 1, 2000