Vital

Certainly, the pull of GREEN, in all things architecture is undeniable. Yet, as the green movement matures, many are left more with the sense that green architecture has become much more of an accounting game then one that inspires. Perhaps more akin to completing a sudoko puzzle then the passions of a water color painting. Amidst that back drop, Kevin Nute has been bravely exploring what I believe will be thought of as the new Green Manifesto, that returns architecture to the center of truly connecting building and place.

In his delightful read VITAL, Kevin begins by laying out the philosophical under pinnings of the importance of this connection between nature and the human race. And upon that hardwired connection in our DNA, VITAL explores not only the deadening effect that our built environment can have on that connection, but more importantly, the opportunity that architecture has to amplify and give voice and expression of that connection.

I personally believe, that Kevin's book comes as close to a modern day design manifesto, as any the world of architecture has seen since those delivered by the Bauhaus movement of more than 80 years ago. But beyond the slogans and aesthetics, Kevin has not only rationally organized a tool box as it were of communicators and annunciators, but he also demonstrates the potential of the tools in this e-book in ways which were not readily possible only a few years ago. I think you will find both inspiration and opportunity to more fully connect your project with your sites, but even more importantly, your clients with their projects. A very approachable read....one which you will enjoy.

This book provides a unique way to study architecture. Weather is sometimes ignored by designers but it is a really important element to buildings. It helps to create many interesting effects on buildings through light, wind and rain. Kevin Nute has explored how architecture works in natural world in his beautiful language. This book will encourage me to think more about weather in my future design.

The premise of the book and the revelatory dynamic of the videos work hand in hand to inspire incorporating such compelling connections to the vitality of nature. I found myself immediately exploring ways that these principles could be imbedded in our designs. For me this was the first time that an ebook became more amazing and more thought provoking than a paper book could ever have been.