BOOK:Phylum H-Brunet Saunier Architecture-on Healthcare, Hatje Cantz Publications

Brunet Saunier Architecture was founded in 1981 by the architects Jérôme Brunet and Eric Saunier. The firm is primarily devoted to erecting public buildings. The successful interaction of formal and functional aspects of their hospital buildings made the architectural office famous across Europe. “Phylum H Architecture on Healthcare” by Hatje Cantz Publications describes a very special architectural task: constructing a hospital. The firm is dedicated to this type of research and further development. Their process is based on intensive research on the functional procedures required in medicine, social demands, and aesthetic possibilities. With these complex ideas, their plans become fascinating time capsules. On one hand, the analytical gaze looks to the past, searching for the medical, historical, and typological elements of the function of hospitals. On the other, potential new technologies, and practices for life and treatment are also examined. In the present, this results in unique buildings distinguished by a sophisticated mastery of flexible spatial structure and integrative design. They create a place for technology, knowledge, work, and social life—for both today and tomorrow. This publication discusses this unique creative process, using sketches, interviews, 3D models, blueprints, and photographs.-Efi Michalarou