The Giant Interactive Group Headquarters, completed in 2010 in Shanghai, is emblematic of the architectural energy and innovation of the Chinese city in recent years. Morphosis Architects' ambition; to create an environmentally-friendly office building in the image of a self-contained village complete with rolling hills, canals, outdoor plazas, green roofs, sporting complexes and an artificial lake, has been brilliantly realized. This book provides a compelling insight into the building, its design and construction, featuring critical texts and stunning photography, plans, models and sketches for a comprehensive all-round exploration of a modern great.

• Book Series Extraordinary Buildings Series – China
  
• Text by Rodolphe el-Khoury
• Photography by Nic Lehoux
• Edited by Oscar Riera Ojeda

Contributors Biographies

Nic Lehoux is a Canadian architectural photographer who works with architects that push the boundaries of design of the built environment. Nic is regularly commissioned to document significant buildings around the world with his unique eye, lighting and sense of composition. His images are frequently published in the international architectural press. His professional work puts a particular emphasis on incorporating people within tightly-composed architectural photographs. Nic is influenced by the concept of the “decisive moment” – popularized by Henry Cartier-Bresson – which he adapts to the rigors of architectural photography. His images therefore serve as a reflection on the interaction of people with the built environment.

Morphosis Architects. Founded in 1972, Morphosis is an interdisciplinary practice involved in rigorous design and research that yields innovative, iconic buildings and urban environments. With founder Thom Mayne serving as design director, the firm today consists of a group of more than 50 professionals, who remain committed to the practice of architecture as a collaborative enterprise. With projects worldwide, the firm’s work ranges in scale from residential, institutional, and civic buildings to large urban planning projects. In the last 30 years, the Company has won over 100 AIA awards, and 25 Progressive Architecture Awards.