10 · Grafisk Design & Forlag, a Copenhagen-based graphic design and publishing company, has released the first two editions of its new book series, named "Co-creating Architecture".

One of the books features NORD Architects, while the second book features EFFEKT, both firms are Copenhagen-based studio and produce projects in the fields of architecture, urbanism and research - rooted in new Scandinavian architecture. 

"Co-creating Architecture" is a book project that takes a look at the vast potential and use of co-creation within Danish architecture. To do so best "Co-creating Architecture" comes as a series of books in which Danish design studios that emerged during the 2000s and early 2010s are portrayed. 

Books can be purchased from 10 · Grafisk Design & Forlag's website. Price of each book is €30 and price for two books together is €54.

This generation of designers sets a new international standard for Danish architecture with their ability to offer sustainable answers to societal and social challenges in the shape of innovative and lasting design solutions. 

The key to this was and still is co-creation: a collaborative approach that opens up the creative process, inviting users, decision-makers and experts from a wide range of fields to participate in and inform the development of projects. 

Co-creation stimulates interest, sense of ownership, networking and political leverage, creating a strong foundation for any project, small or large-scale.

The same openness characterizes their deliberate use of communication and new media as a powerful process tool that displaces the esoteric design jargon. The result is an architecture that can be used as an important strategic instrument in the development of society.

Each book in the series Co-creating Architecture consists of three parts: an extensive interview with focus on the architects view and use of co-creation as a tool; a catalogue of completed and upcoming projects in which co-creation has played a key role; and, finally, an outside perspective on the design practice with an analysis of its processes, solutions and potentials.

Book 1: Co-creating Architecture / NORD Architects

No. 1 NORD Architects © Adam Moerk

Book 1 introduces NORD Architects, who use their profound interest in social matters to work strategically with co-creation. To them opening up the architectural authorship, without relinquishing the architectural responsibility and influence, simply has far greater potential.

"Changing society is harder than building a society. Nobody can change society on their own, and the ability to include knowledge and expertise from others will therefore be crucial in the future," said Johannes Pedersen, NORD Architects. 

Book 2: Co-creating Architecture / EFFEKT

No. 2 EFFEKT © Rasmus Hjortshoej – COAST Studio

Book 2 introduces EFFEKT who practice co-creation as an integral part of their design process. To them enhancing the quality of their work comes from maintaining a constant dialogue with the world around them. Asking the right questions and getting the right input result in innovative and socially sustainable solutions.

"Architecture doesn’t take place inside a closed room. It’s a close dialogue with the surrounding world when you design buildings and cities. In that sense, there is always an element of co-creation in the development of architecture," said Sinus Lynge, EFFEKT.

Book facts

Editor: Birgitte Kleis, Arkitekturformidling.dk

Essay contributions:

Co-Creating Architecture no. 1 / NORD Architects; Steen Hildebrandt, professor, PhD

Co-Creating Architecture no. 2 / EFFEKT; Boris Brorman Jensen, architect MAA & PhD

Graphic design: Jesper Lind Jans / 10 · GD&F

English-language Richly illustrated Hardback
150 x 240 mm

Co-Creating Architecture no. 1 / NORD Architects 112 pages
ISBN 978-87-93341-03-6
Published March 2020

Co-Creating Architecture no. 2 / EFFEKT 104 pages
ISBN 978-87-93341-02-9
Published March 2020

Cover photo credits:
No. 1 NORD Architects © Adam Moerk
No. 2 EFFEKT © Rasmus Hjortshoej – COAST Studio

All images courtesy of 10 · Grafisk Design & Forlag unless otherwise stated. 

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