Homes for Our Times, Book

The Contemporary House presents a stunning selection of new homes from around the world, ranging from small cottages to luxurious villas, beach houses and forest retreats. This global presentation highlights recognised talents such as Shigeru Ban, MVRDV and Marcio Kogan, alongside emerging names such as Aires Mateus, Xu Fu-Min, Vo Trong Nghia, Desai Chia and Shunri Nishizawa.

With sites in places as varied as Australia, New Zealand, China, Vietnam, the United States and Mexico, as well as less expected locations such as Ecuador and Costa Rica, the book offers a comprehensive view of the contemporary home, revealing that, despite cultural differences, homes around the world share surprising similarities.

Among the featured projects, the Three Creeks House, designed by Kamal Malik, is located among guava trees and abandoned forts in Western India. With its high ceilings, balconies and pavilions, this residence stands like an extension of the forest.

Encina House, by Aranguren & Gallegos, is an elegant, sloping structure immersed in a pine forest in the north of Madrid. Its lower level is built into the rock, connected to the upper level by a natural stone wall.

On the coast of Japan, Shinichi Ogawa's Seaside House is an impeccable example of minimalism, with a living area that opens onto a balanced terrace and an infinity pool, creating an almost liquid harmony with the ocean.

In Vietnam, the House in Chau Doc, designed by Shunri Nishizawa, displays a tropical sophistication, with exposed wooden beams, woven bamboo and concrete panels. Its galvanised iron walls act as movable panels, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding rice fields.