Hundertwasser Architecture

Revolt Against the Straight Line. The highly irregular architecture of a freethinking artist

Biomorphic forms, unbridled colour, and gentle chaos characterize the architecture of Friedensreich Hundertwasser. This monograph compiles his architectural works, presenting all his building projects, whether realized or not. Preparatory sketches, models, and photographs illuminate a pioneering and environmentally sensitive vision, intent on a harmonious coexistence with nature.

“A house must be a living, organic entity that develops and constantly changes,” stated Friedensreich Hundertwasser in one of his arguments for his nature- and human-oriented architecture. Success vindicated his vision: roof afforestation, organic forms, colourful façades, uneven floors, irregularly positioned windows, gilded onion domes — Hundertwasser’s architecture is unmistakable.

From the beginning of his artistic career in the ’50s, Hundertwasser was preoccupied with architecture in his painting. Then began his engagement with manifestos, essays, and demonstrations; later followed architectural models in which he illustrated, for example, his ideas on roof afforestation and an individual’s right to his very own window. As an “architectural doctor” he created unregimented irregularities and realized exemplary architectural projects.

This comprehensive directory of Hundertwasser’s architectural works presents all his buildings and projects, whether realized or not, tracing them from the first sketches through to models and completion. Dr. Andrea Christa Fürst, a longtime employee of the Hundertwasser Archive, made a major contribution to this publication.

The editor:

Angelika Taschen studied art history and German literature in Heidelberg, gaining her doctorate in 1986. Working for TASCHEN from 1987 to 2010, she has published numerous titles on art, architecture, photography, design, travel, and lifestyle.