As an intriguing document on one of the most significant architects in the Netherlands, 'The School as City' presents one of the world’s most influential school builders, Dutch architect Herman Hertzberger, and his battle to have his plans implemented. His ideals are sometimes at odds with the reality of today’s society. He struggles, grumbles, puts things in perspective, enjoys himself and gets his way wherever he can.
Herman Hertzberger (b. 1932) is a man who cherishes his theories and is known for his eloquence and didactic skill. By showing how he worked on the various schools, the publication and film show the extent to which his theories actually took shape in practice, with all the attendant obstacles. How he plays the game between client, user and designer – with enormous passion, empathy and humour. The DVD also contains Herman Hertzberger’s essay ‘Fifty Years of Schools’.
As an intriguing document on one of the most significant architects in the Netherlands, 'The School as City' presents one of the world’s most influential school builders, Dutch architect Herman Hertzberger, and his battle to have his plans implemented. His ideals are sometimes at odds with the reality of today’s society. He struggles, grumbles, puts things in perspective, enjoys himself and gets his way wherever he can.
Herman Hertzberger (b. 1932) is a man who cherishes his theories and is known for his eloquence and didactic skill. By showing how he worked on the various schools, the publication and film show the extent to which his theories actually took shape in practice, with all the attendant obstacles. How he plays the game between client, user and designer – with enormous passion, empathy and humour. The DVD also contains Herman Hertzberger’s essay ‘Fifty Years of Schools’.
Filmmakers Moniek van de Vall and Gustaaf Vos followed Herman Hertzberger for over three years and began working on The School as City in 2007.