ODA releases rizzoli monograph highlighting human-centric design

rethinking Urban Design Priorities: People First

New York-based architecture firm ODA, known for its innovative and human-centric designs, has announced the publication by Rizzoli of a monograph titled ODA: Office of Design and Architecture. With an introduction by acclaimed architecture critic Paul Goldberger, the book delves into the studio’s philosophy of prioritizing people and community engagement in urban design, challenging the traditional modernist notion of ‘form follows function.’

Eran Chen, founder and executive director of ODA, argues that in today’s technological world, building functions are becoming increasingly fluid. Instead, the team proposes an alternative: ‘form should follow experiences, or function.’ Chen emphasizes the power of design to create meaningful public spaces and experiences. Showcased are a number of completed ODA projects, along with a collection of unbuilt works, that aim to contribute positively to the surrounding urban communities.

ODA Rizzoli Monograph

ODA’s Holistic Approach: From Apartment to Neighborhood

The Rizzoli monograph ODA: Office of Design and Architecture is structured thematically, progressing from individual apartments to entire neighborhoods. This structure reflects the architects‘ holistic design approach, where each project is seen as part of a larger whole. Readers will gain insight into ODA’s unique architectural language, seen in projects like 10 Jay Street, with its faceted facade in New York City, and The Nest, a sculptural work ongoing in Fort Lauderdale. These projects demonstrate how design can ‘inspire visual intrigue’ while remaining respectful of the surrounding streetscape and fostering a vibrant public realm.

ODA Rizzoli Monograph

Beyond Aesthetics: Building Community Through Design

The Rizzoli monograph ODA: Office of Design and Architecture showcases the transformative potential of design. It goes beyond showcasing aesthetically pleasing buildings, highlighting how ODA’s work in architecture, interior design, and landscape design contributes to building stronger communities. Ultimately, the book argues that thoughtful design can transform the way we experience urban life. In the foreword, Paul Goldberger commends ODA for their ‘formal inventiveness, a willingness to solve problems,’ and most importantly, the team’s recognition that ‘no building is purely an object in itself, but a part of a larger urban whole.’