The new ICA building, built in Boston in 2006, is a visionary expression of contemporary culture that captures the vibrancy and excitement of its setting; the revitalized South Boston waterfront. The building, designed by the award-winning architects Diller Scofidio + Renfro, is constructed according to two apparently contradictory concepts: "From the sky down", and "From the ground up". This book provides an in-depth textual and photographic exploration into how these ideas were translated into innovative gallery, public and institutional spaces, showcasing the building's most innovative features and its energizing effect on the surrounding area.

• Book Series Master Buildings
  
• Photography by Nic Lehoux
• Edited by Oscar Riera Ojeda

Contributors Biographies

Diller Scofidio + Renfro is a New York City based architectural firm founded by Elizabeth Diller and Ricardo Scofidio. They are particularly well known for their interdisciplinary approach to architecture. Their influence stems as much, if not more, from their contributions to the theory and criticism of architecture as from their built works. These are sometimes in the form of written work, but more often are in the form of installation art, video art or electronic art. In 2004 Charles Renfro was made a partner and they have since been known as Diller Scofidio + Renfro. Staying active in the academic world, Elizabeth Diller currently teaches at Princeton University Charles Renfro is a visiting professor at both Columbia University and Rice University, while Ricardo Scofidio has recently been named Professor Emeritus at Cooper Union.

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.