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Todd Saunders Discusses Conflict and Building Relationships in Nordic Architecture in New Book ‘Share’
Initiated by the Norway-based, Canadian architect Todd Saunders, after reaching somewhat of an impasse in his career «Share: Conversations about Contemporary Architecture – The Nordic Countries» takes an in-depth look at the modern architectural process in the Nordic region through a series of beautifully candid interviews with the regions» leading architects including BIG, Studio Puisto, Basalt and Snøhetta, as well as lesser known firms like Studio dominique + serena, Gartnerfuglen Arkitekter and Förstberg Ling.
Saunders compiled a list of 99 questions, built to open-up and revaluate the practice of architecture amongst his peers, after realising that they too had become unenamoured with their work, airports and meeting rooms, missed the outdoors and craved a beneficial «cause» as their «client». The book was dreamt up pre-COVID, but created during the height of the pandemic, where the dialogue about buildings almost became secondary to that around forming relationships, with both clients, places and materials in a virtual world.
With over 25 years of professional experience, Saunders has always been interested in the role of creativity in everyday practice and its potential for impact. Through his interviews, he sheds light on the changing role of the architect, the challenges of contemporary practice, and the delicate balance between client, craft, and innovation. What makes «Share: Conversations about Contemporary Architecture – The Nordic Countries» so unique is its unapologetic insight into the «unglamorous» side of the architecture industry. The book provides insights that go beyond the polished stories that are usually printed, and it highlights the role of challenge, conflict, mistakes, and coincidence in the creative process – something that not just architects, but all creatives, have to deal with and overcome in their practice.
With plans for further volumes that explore the work of architects in North and South America, central Europe, and the Far East, this series will continue to shape the conversation around contemporary architecture for years to come. The book is a must-read for anyone interested in the world of architecture and the ways in which architects navigate the complexities of modern-day practice, but also provides the perfect springboard for conversations around reimagining and redefining processes and outcomes in any creative industry.
«Share: Conversations about Contemporary Architecture – The Nordic Countries» is available to purchase via Artifice Press and at most major book sellers.
