PROJECT DESCRIPTION

This is an architectural book about a history of architectural books—a publication
comprised of publications. The illustrations of this volume are other volumes themselves. As such, it models the “mis-en-abyme”, and this reflexive strategy serves as a primary motif for the project.

The anthology is composed of both thematic essays and monographic studies of key world histories of architecture. Two layouts are used to distinguish the contributions on a consistent grid; the former uses the full page with larger type size and the latter is structured as a book within a book, with generous lower and outer margins and smaller type size.

We sidestep the traditional notion of illustrations supporting the text. We worked closely with the Canadian Centre for Architecture to art direct photography of first editions in their archives. These primary sources are reproduced as full-bleed imagery at relative scale. In contrast, minor illustrations in the form of smaller portraits, or sketches sit tightly beside the essays.

This is not a singular work nor a singular perspective. We highlight the plurality of contributions through both the typography and materiality of the cover. Many of the world histories of architecture featured conventional frontispieces with elaborate typesetting – we bring that sensibility to the cover. It serves as both a stylistic gesture and a functional one, because we can highlight the entire cast of editors and contributing authors on the cover. Speaking to that plurality, we use three very distinctive but coordinated materials for the back, spine, and front cover.

BOOK INFORMATION

Trim Size: 8.875 x 11.75in

Number of Pages: 564

Binding Method: Smyth-sewn, casebound

Paper: Interior: Munken Print White 125gsm / Cover: Fedrigoni Nettuno Perla 140gsm (front), Peyer Naturelle Cotton Zimt (spine), Peyer Cryluxe Alligator Havana (back)

Typefaces: Mercure

CREDIT INFORMATION

Creative Director:

Art Director: Ben Fehrman-Lee

Book Designer: Ben Fehrman-Lee, Julia Novitch

Jacket/Cover Designer: Ben Fehrman-Lee, Julia Novitch

Illustrator:

Photographer:

Picture Editor:

Production Director:

Production Coordinator:

Production Artist:

Other Credits: DawkinsColour, UK – Color Separations

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