Robert & Trix Haussmann

Trix + Robert Haussmann’s monograph opens the publication series STUDIOLO / Edition Patrick Frey, a collaboration between the publisher and the exhibition space STUDIOLO. The curators Fredi Fischli and Niels Olsen run a varied program of contemporary art productions in an atelier house in Zurich. The exhibition The Log-O-Rhythmic Slide Rule shown in spring 2012 was dedicated to the work of Trix and Robert Haussmann and is the basis for this publication, which, with illustrations, essays, texts by artists and a discussion, provides an in-depth look into the rich creative work of the Swiss architect and designer couple.

Trix and Robert Haussmann are two of the most important architects, designers and theoreticians, consequential in influencing and helping to displace classical modernism in Switzerland. They have realized about 650 projects in their lifetime; in Zurich these include the Da-Capo-Bar, the new main train station, the boutique Weinberg and the Kronenhallenbar. The year 1967 marks their marriage and the establishment of their joint office Allgemeine Entwurfsanstalt. It is also the year they began working together, a collaboration which has brought forth works breaking with the dogmas of entrenched architectural practices. In addition to designing buildings and furniture, they have developed a rich theoretical œuvre that is presented for the first time in this publication. This book will form the basis for any future assessment of their work.