August 1, 2024

Toronto, ON, Canada - Diamond Schmitt Architects announces the release of its new book SET PIECES: Architecture for the Performing Arts in Fifteen Fragments.

Published by leading international architecture publisher Birkhäuser, Set Pieces pairs the words of architects and leading critics with detailed visual explorations of Diamond Schmitt’s designs for some of the world’s most remarkable performing arts venues, illuminating the typology of performing arts buildings by spotlighting 15 design elements that enhance and transform the perception of performance.

Set Pieces features detailed photos and illustrations of Diamond Schmitt’s architectural approaches to David Geffen Hall at Lincoln Center, New York; La Maison Symphonique in Montreal; Buddy Holly Hall in Lubbock, Texas; National Arts Centre, Ottawa; and more. Complementing this deep dive into the unique typology of performing arts buildings from various angles, the book features contributed essays by leading architecture critics, including New York Magazine’s Justin Davidson on why concert halls still matter and The Nation’s Kate Wagner on acoustics, as well as an interview with acclaimed set designer Mimi Lien on her approach to theatrical design.

"Diamond Schmitt is proud to have designed more than 60 performing arts spaces around the world, and in surveying these projects for Set Pieces, we realized that we did not want to produce a conventional architectural monograph," said founding principal Don Schmitt. "Rather than showcase these buildings as whole entities, we wanted to think about the fragments and design moments that make up these spaces and which contribute to a great place of performance. Through the innovative design ideas explored, from David Geffen Hall’s floating ‘fireflies’ to incorporating Texan vernacular into Buddy Holly Hall, we hope that readers will find new joy and appreciation in these details which reveal the transformative and emotional power of architecture."

"Set Pieces investigates the design alchemy that makes performing arts spaces live and breathe, accommodating audiences, communities, as well as the delicate balance of light, sound, and function needed to support performing artists and their visions," added Diamond Schmitt principal Matthew Lella. "This book reflects Diamond Schmitt’s collaborative approach, co-mingling those who have worked in theaters, who have performed, and who have studied light and acoustics both scientifically and artistically, inviting readers into the conversations we embark on with each project."

"Set Pieces highlights the intent behind these elements not only as technical architectural features, but also as elements designed to stimulate creativity and give rise to artistic greatness," said Diamond Schmitt principal Gary McCluskie. "By breaking down architecture into its individual parts, we hope to enhance readers’ understanding of the relationship between architecture and performance, and to encourage the spirit of artistic encounter."

Copyright year: 2024
Pages: 292
Language: English
Specs: 22 × 26 cm, 50 Illustrations, 200 Coloured Illustrations
Concept: Paddy Harrington and Jennifer Sigler
Executive Editors: Brian Sholis and Jennifer Sigler
Managing Editor: Javier Zeller
Graphic Design: Cristian Ordoñez for Frontier, Toronto

Set Pieces is available for purchase on Birkhäuser.