Stillness: An Exploration of Japanese Aesthetics in Architecture and Design

Stillness: An Exploration of Japanese Aesthetics in Architecture and Design, published by Gestalten, tells the story of Norm Architects. This Danish design duo, formed by architects Kasper Rønn and Jonas Bjerre-Poulsen, masterfully blends Scandinavian aesthetics with Japanese design traditions to create a distinctive and captivating style. In addition to showcasing the studio's own work, Stillness features an abundance of imagery capturing the landscapes, architecture and culture of Japan.

After over a decade of travel, study and creative collaboration with Japan, Norm Architects' shares their uniquely Scandinavian view of Japanese aesthetics.The book features richly illustrated dispatches from visits to Japanese landscapes, architecture and cultural sites, shedding light on the influence Japanese traditions have had on the studio's contemporary projects, such as the Äng restaurant in Sweden or Heatherhill Beach House in Denmark. Juxtaposing images from Japan with Norm Architects' work, the book highlights the centuries-old connections between the distinct design cultures, emphasizing mutual respect and shared philosophies. Commentary from expert collaborators in both regions provides in-depth understanding into key design principles. At once an ode to Japan, a personal travelogue, and an aesthetic manifesto, Stillness takes readers on Norm's decade-long journey as they've sought to understand one of the world's most revered creative cultures.

Established in Berlin in 1995, Gestalten is a modern German publishing house with a strong focus on aesthetics and graphic design. Gestalten has published over 600 boldly illustrated and creatively designed books on themes such as architecture, design, food, travel and contemporary art.