munich, fünf höfe

Translated as "Five Courtyards," this Herzog and de Meuron project embues a pre-existing galleria complex with remarkably phenomenal atmosphere. The basic typology is not that uncommon in Europe--a warren of ground-level stores weaving though a dense urban block--but such shopping conglomerates never receive this degree of high fashion care. The designers carefully configure surfaces, materials, and spaces to maximize their performance in concert. The result is a subtle exterior announcement that dissolves into ethereal illumination and surreal reflection.