Whilst architecture events are prevalent year-round, this summer Aesthetica collates five must-see shows that pave the way for the future of urban planning.
Sou Fujimoto: Futures of the Future, Japan House, London
“Creating architecture is like planting seeds of the future.” Fujimoto (b. 1971) is known for an innovative practice that combines philosophy with sustainability. His visionary residential and institutional projects offer connections between the built environment and the human body. Until 5 August.
It Will Never Work: 25 Years of Urban Splash 1993-2018, RIBA West Midlands, Birmingham
Exploring over two decades of the award-winning firm, RIBA’s presentation highlights Urban Splash’s ongoing commitment to sustainability, housing and conservation. This ethos underlines a rich body of projects, each shaping how communities live and work in northern England. Until 17 July.
Renzo Piano: The Art of Making Buildings, Royal Academy of Arts, London
Piano (b. 1937) is recognised as one of the foremost architects in the world, designing international projects such as The Shard, London, and the Pompidou Centre, Paris. Focusing on 16 key projects, RA’s exhibition reveals how he uses form, materials and engineering to create cultural icons. From 15 September
The Return of the Past: Postmodernism in British Architecture, Sir John Soane’s Museum, London
Investigating the movement through British buildings, this show unearths how designers use the past to look forward to new possibilities. The collection comprises drawings, models and images alongside full-scale replicas and fragments of existing structures. Until 27 August.
SUPERSTRUCTURES: The New Architecture 1960-1990, Sainsbury Centre for Visual Arts, Norwich
Establishing a narrative of progress, Sainsbury Centre explores the unfolding relationships between technology and construction in the post-war era. It charts the bold move towards lightweight materials and original engineering solutions. Until 2 September.
Credits:
1. Town House, Smith’s Dock. Urban Splash.
2. Sou Fujimoto, Many Small Cubes Tuileries, Paris, 2014. Image: Iwan Baan.
3. Park Hill, Sheffield
4. The Shard, London.
5. China Wharf, London. CZWG Architects.
6. Sainsbury Centre Crescent Wing. Photograph: © Richard Davies.
