'elemental' explores the work and concepts behind alejandro aravena's studio

in 2001, the acclaimed chilean architect alejandro aravena formed the studio ‘elemental’ and in 2016 he was awarded the pritzker prize in architecture. the santiago based studio focuses on projects of public interest and social impact and aravena has become renowned for his work developing social housing. in particular the ‘half house’ that conceived a type of social housing enabling buyers to build the latter half themselves. to mark the exhibition of his work at the louisiana museum of modern art, the latest book, elemental: alejandro aravena: the architect’s studio, has been published by lars müller.

quinta monroy housing, 2004, iquique, chile / image by cristobal palma

published in hardback, the book opens a window into the studio’s work, showcasing the practice’s design process in great detail. readers are taken on a journey through some of elemental’s most important projects. from initial concept sketches and striking working models to the final images of a realized project, the publication shows the working methods and ideas behind the notable studio.

monterrey housing, 2010, monterrey, mexico

the book also includes chapters of interview with aravena, which further explores the methods and concepts behind his design process, and some of the social issues which are so fundamental to his work. the interview makes up four sections that each discuss the important basic approaches and philosophy behind the elemental practice.

innovation center UC, chile / image © nina vidic

the hardback book provides readers with a captivating tour of the elemental studio. the publication’s 240 pages are filled with 240 beautiful color photos, as well as never-before-seen architectural drawings and sketches. in essence, the book delves into the elemental practice and how their work is defining a new generation of architects who are seeking to bridge the gap in our society through positive change and effective architectural strategies.