Renzo Piano is one of the most representative figures in contemporary architecture. The extraordinary breadth of his work—spanning an exceptional range of scales, materials, and forms—offers a panoramic view of architecture across eras. In 1998, the Pritzker Architecture Prize jury described him as an architect whose body of work is “staggering in scope and comprehensive in the diversity of scale, material, and form,” truly embodying the broadest spectrum of architectural sensibility from both this century and those before it.
Piano’s understanding of architecture is deeply rooted in his reflections on life and creativity. As he has famously stated, “One of the great beauties of architecture is that each time, it is like life starting all over again.” For him, every new project resembles a filmmaker approaching a different genre—whether a love story, an adventure, or a mystery—each demanding the creation of an entirely new world.
This book is a visually and intellectually rich architectural monograph, featuring an extensive selection of photographs, hand-drawn sketches, and architectural plans. It offers a comprehensive overview of Renzo Piano’s career to date, tracing the creative process from initial concept to built form. The volume also includes insights into projects that were ongoing at the time of publication, providing readers with a glimpse into the evolving trajectory of his architectural practice.
From public buildings to urban landmarks, from structural innovation to spatial poetry, this book fully reveals how Renzo Piano achieves a refined balance between technical precision and humanistic vision. More than a collection of works, it serves as a vital window into the creative thinking and worldview of one of the most influential architects of our time. Essential reading for architects, students of design, and anyone interested in contemporary architecture and urban culture.