CHASING THE TREE THE ARCHITECT: JÜRGEN MAYER. H

This month, we feature Jürgen Mayer in our blog where we talk about the architects chasing the tree. Mayer was born in Stuttgart, Germany on 30 October 1965. Having studied at Stuttgart University, The Cooper Union and Princeton University, Jürgen Mayer has been working as an architect in his own office since 1996.

Having taught at major universities such as Princeton, Harvard and Columbia, Jürgen Mayer received awards from the ceremonies such as Mies van der Rohe Award, Holcim Award, Audi Urban Future Award and Red Dot Design Award.

Having founded an architectural firm under his own name in Berlin, the capital of Germany, in 1996, Jürgen Mayer gained global recognition by attracting attention in a short period of time with its geometric structures reflecting the digital age in his designs. Mayer’s designs were exhibited in the international collections of important institutions such as New York and San Francisco Museum of Modern Art.

His Projects Notable with the Use of Wood-Based Products

N. N. Residence

Started to be constructed in 2014 near Moscow, the capital of Russia, the housing project was completed in 2019. Designed as a detached house, the project attracts attention from the outside despite its contradictory geometric shape, thanks to the harmony that it has achieved with its surroundings.

Aiming to blur the sharp boundaries separating the construction and landscape, the structure is positioned with an organic form in line with the topography. Specially designed to perfectly melt into its landscape and to get in touch with nature, the building also attracts attention with its detailed landscape planning. The project completes its organic form with its roof covered with greeneries.

Metropol Parasol

Completed in April 2011 in Sevilla, Spain, the project is located at La Encarnación square. The project was awarded the 1st prize in the international competition held for the redevelopment of the Encarnacion Square in 2004. The redesign of the square having archeological remains as a cultural city center has caused the project to become one of the important icons of the city.

Featuring as the world’s largest wooden structure in terms of its dimensions, the project is an organic structure formed by wooden elements interlocked with each other. As can be understood from its name meaning “Metropolitan Umbrella”, it serves as a large wooden umbrella positioned over the square.

The form of the structure was designed as a reflection of the medieval architectural texture of the city of Seville to the 21st century dynamics. Metropol Parasol provides shade on sunny days and its top can also be used as a viewing terrace. Accommodating an archeological museum, cafes and restaurants in it, the structure also attracts attention in terms of functionality.

Having product designs such as furniture, wall and floor coverings in addition to his architectural designs setting the world alight, Jürgen Mayer also continues to raise young people with his publications and lectures.

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