Stillness — hardly any other concept resonates more strongly with me in this ever louder world. Often forgotten, stillness should be an important part of our everyday lives. It is not merely the absence of noise, but a state of being, a moment of conscious pause that offers space for contemplation and self-reflection. This philosophical consideration of stillness is the starting point that runs through the pages of the new book by Norm Architects.
Published by gestalten, which is known for its collaboration with creative minds worldwide, this publication documents and explores the essence of Japanese aesthetics in architecture and design from a Scandinavian perspective. In 304 pages, the book is dedicated to the similarities between two very different cultures, which are nevertheless deeply connected by a shared appreciation for simple and functional aesthetics.
The concept of stillness is the common thread running through the book, and you can feel this peaceful and mindful intention on every single page. Each of the five different chapters offers interesting insights into the beauty of Japanese aesthetics, whether through profound essays or through the beautiful photographs by Jonas Bjerre-Poulsen, co-founder of Norm Architects. Aesthetically, Bjerre-Poulsen captures the many nuances of this style and invites us to mindfully experience the present moment while reading the book.
One of the most interesting aspects of this book are the profound dialogues and essays with personalities such as the Japanese architect Shigenori Uoya, the designer Kenya Hara or the Danish professor Anders Brix. With them, the aesthetic connection between Japan and Scandinavia is illuminated in detail in an insightful way. Topics such as the philosophical concepts of “emptiness” and “transience” in Japanese art and architecture, the aesthetic influence of Japan on Denmark, and the reductive aesthetics in both cultures are explored here. Particular emphasis is placed on the mutual admiration and deep cultural resonance between Scandinavia and Japan, which is expressed in a shared appreciation for craftsmanship and natural materials. Projects by Norm Architects and impressions of places they have visited in Japan illustrate these explorations and philosophical thoughts.
Having practiced Zazen meditation for more than 10 years myself, I am particularly drawn to this calm and peaceful aesthetic of Japan. Many of the concepts and philosophical explorations that have accompanied me for years in my daily meditation practice and my appreciation of silence, simplicity and the beauty of nature are addressed in the book. The essays and atmospheric photographs have captured the essence of Japanese aesthetics and its introspective nature in a very authentic way.
Through conversations with Danish and Japanese scholars, architects, designers, and craftspeople, we have embarked on a curious voyage, trying to uncover the narrative that intertwines the nuances of Japanese design with the austere simplicity of our Nordic heritage.
Quote from the book by Jonas Bjerre-Poulsen
The book leaves me with a deep sense of appreciation for the beauty that lies in this aesthetic. “Stillness” invites the reader to experience these concepts and places and discover the deep aesthetic connections between two seemingly different but deeply related cultures.
The book is available in Europe and the UK from August 6th and worldwide starting October 8, 2024 via gestalten and other stores.
Notes for transparency: A review copy was provided to me free of charge.
