Architect Steven Holls Combines Geeky Aesthetic, Environmental Elements

Steven Holl's buildings are more than beautiful -- they've got
brains, too. For 31 years, the New York architect has taken advantage
of his obsessive interest in science to build inventive structures with
a geeky alter ego. A scientific principle anchors the majority of his
projects, whether it's structural geology, as is the case with a
Hawaiian residence designed to mimic the island's tectonic movement, or
structural engineering, found in the color-coded paint job done on
MIT's Simmon's Hall.

In his new book, Steven Holl: Architecture Spoken, the
award-winning designer gives uncensored access to the design and
building process of 24 of his projects. Here's a look at the
architect's passion for using new materials, incorporating existing
landscape into new construction and finding inspiration in everything
from sea sponges to Homer's The Odyssey.