The condition of 'fake' and 'real' in architecture

is rarely publicly discussed nor has it encountered

broad journalistic or scholarly attention.

This book explores the realm of truth, authenticity

and fakery in architecture, providing

a timely collection of analytical essays and projects.

Photographers, writers and architects

share their understanding and speculations

about a broad range of spaces and concepts -

all searching for common ground between real

and imagined, function and story.

The authors challenge our perception of 'authenticity

' through the examination of built and

simulated environments, architectural fiction,

theatric illusions and mannerist trickery. They

examine the notion that the principle of Sullivan's

'form follows function' contains a paradox

caused by the ambiguity and complexity of architectural

expression. Buildings are perceived

through an individual's personal experiences

while also being interpreted along broader cultural

values. The works shown reveal that under

scrutiny, any built environment harbors both, reveals

moments of truth, deception and ambiguity

all of it partially in the eye of the beholder.

The diverse contributions shed light on unexpected

identities in architecture inviting critical

thought about our built environment - analog

and digital.

The goal of this publication goes beyond unmasking

deception in architecture, it aims at

unfolding time-lines and revealing the layered

nature of people and places. The images and

essays reveal our contemporary condition and

let collective and individual narratives unfold, a

range of truths in themselves. Expanding from

the discussion about truthful materiality and tectonics,

this book provides an understanding of

real, authentic, and fake in urbanism and architecture.