Durrer Architekten

The buildings by Durrer Architekten possess a certain self-evidence, as if they had always been there. Their complexity only becomes apparent at second glance. The pleasant consequence is that, on closer inspection, one repeatedly discovers new and surprising aspects that nonetheless integrate coherently into the larger whole. This effect may stem from the fact that, in their design work, they consistently focus on a strong guiding idea and pursue it rigorously through to completion.

As diverse as the buildings by Durrer Architekten may be, they nevertheless share common features: they are the multifaceted result of a continual search for simple and self-evident solutions, expressed in an appropriate and deliberately restrained manner. Through their careful integration into the built environment, the projects preserve the identity of established townscapes and settlements and complement them with quality and care. The two Lucerne-based architects with roots in Obwalden succeed in this thanks to their profound knowledge of architectural history and their finely tuned sense of what is appropriate in each place and for each task. Their work testifies to a strong sense of responsibility towards society and the environment, manifested in innovative construction techniques and forward-looking, sustainably planned buildings.

This monograph presents a body of work that mediates between tradition and the present and understands architecture as a responsible, sustainable cultural practice, characterised by a finely tuned sense of scale, attitude and significance.