This book compiles a curated selection of texts authored by architects and scholars hailing from Asia, Europe, and North America. Their research, often intertwined with practical applications, delves into the intricate relationship between material culture, technology, and architecture within the broader cultural and social milieu. Three keywords—construction, materials, encounters—serve as the organizing framework for the book, guiding readers through a diverse array of case studies and experiences where these elements intertwine seamlessly. Indeed, these terms are intricately interwoven, reflecting the inseparability of technology from culture.
The first part of the book delves into the poetics and theoretical underpinnings of construction, drawing from the works of various designers across China, Japan, and India. The subsequent section navigates the terrain of construction materials, exploring their evolution, manufacturing processes, and utilization, with a particular focus on diverse timber products and bamboo. The final part of this compilation embarks on a journey through historical encounters between the East and West spanning over a century. It meticulously investigates the exchanges, misunderstandings, and innovations catalyzed by these interactions. Collectively, these texts offer a profound and original perspective on the myriad experiences and challenges associated with the intricate interplay between technological advancements, tectonic preferences, and socio-cultural dynamics within the architectural landscape of the Asia-Pacific region.