"Only rarely does an architect explain how they work. Frans van der Werf is an exception. He does so in this book with examples of his practice over several decades, work that shows both the consistency of his approach and its evolution. Its especially important that this book is being published now because the Open Building approach which underpins his work is finding new adherents while at the same time running into headwinds. A clear exposition of the approach, in straightforward language with helpful drawings and photographs, will be of immense help to a new generation of practitioners and clients interested in a humane, regenerative built environment."
Stephen Kendall, Emeritus Professor of Architecture at Ball State University, Philadelphia, PA, USA.
"The book is about a lifelong research of an architect on building better housing for ordinary people. The projects illustrated a beautiful balance of living in communities and individual intervention in the changing environments. It shows how a concept of Open Building developed, enhanced and enriched in design practice in almost half a century. It is both poetic and technical. It is both architectural and touching. I believe the book will be beneficial for young architects and architectural students who are facing a changing urbanism in the 21st century. It is also a reference for developers and housing authorities who are endeavor into a sustainable future of cities in the world."
Beisi Jia, Partner and Director, Baumschlager Eberle Hong Kong Ltd.
"Frans van der Werf offers us a much-needed resource which not only addresses the theory of Open Building, but also presents real-life examples from his years of practice. Having had the privilege of visiting Molenvliet many years ago, I remember the impact it had on me in terms of its human scale and spatial hierarchies, but also because of van der Werfs response when I asked, why is that window lower than the others, he simply replied the occupant is a wheelchair user.
I believe that Open Building should be the way in which we practice architecture. It should become the way that we teach and practice. The concept of Open Building is timeless and its principles are universal."
Amira Osman, Professor, Architecture and Industrial Design, Tshwane University of Technology; Past President: The South African Institute of Architects (SAIA)
"This is a well-organized and graphically coherent volume. Although the author is reflecting on 40 years of practice -there is an energy and immediacy to his writing as if these projects are under development now. The projects are well-illustrated by iterative process drawings, diagrams and photographs. In addition, the ubiquitous pen and ink vignettes by Kees Gunneweg provide both coherency and delight."
John Dale, FAIA. Principal, Synchronis. President and Co-Founder, The Council on Open Building
Lisainfo e-raamatute kohta