Hermann Kaufmann HK Architekten: Do We Have to Rethink Building?

Issue
06/2021 Cradle to Cradle CO2 Neutral Plus Energy Low Tech Recycling
Author
Jakob Schoof
Author
Sandra Hofmeister
Source
DETAIL
Hermann Kaufmann has advanced timber construction like hardly any other architect. Born into a carpenter family from the forested state of Vorarlberg, Austria, he studied in Innsbruck and Vienna and launched HK Architekten in Schwarzach in 1983, going on to design numerous pioneering timber structures in Europe and beyond. He has taught in Austria, Liechtenstein, and Germany, most recently as Professor of Design and Timber Construction at Technical University of Munich. He is a driving force behind several research initiatives, exhibitions, and seminal books on timber construction.
© Martin Polt
Hermann Kaufmann is an architect, ambassador and pionieer of timber construction. A native of the forested region of Vorarlberg, he has encouraged multiple generations of students to build with wood. In this interview, he discusses the development of timber construction and the challenges it faces today.
Hermann Kaufmann has advanced timber construction like hardly any other architect. Born into a carpenter family from the forested state of Vorarlberg, Austria, he studied in Innsbruck and Vienna and launched HK Architekten in Schwarzach in 1983, going on to design numerous pioneering timber structures in Europe and beyond. He has taught in Austria, Liechtenstein, and Germany, most recently as Professor of Design and Timber Construction at Technical University of Munich. He is a driving force behind several research initiatives, exhibitions, and seminal books on timber construction.
© Martin Polt