Javas Lehn Studio’s stark record of Nicolas Schuybroek’s practice harmonises design and context

The practice of Brussels-based architect Nicolas Schuybroek has already produced a series of iconic buildings due to his one-of-a-kind ability to distil a somewhat mystical character into even the most humble of buildings. Compiling together the first-ever collection of his work, Schuybroek collaborated with NYC-based design firm Javas Lehn Studio to produce ‘Nicolas Schuybroek Selected Works Volume One,’ published by Hatje Cantz. “I met Nicolas a few years back while he was designing The Robey,” Javas Lehn recalls, a Chicago hotel project the studio previously branded. “We kept in touch and agreed to collaborate on the identity and website for his architecture practice,” he tells us, going back and forth over the design concepts, system and character – soon developing a distinctive and sophisticated brand. Put into full swing for the book, the resulting compilation is a serene exploration of space, composition and clarity; executed with an editorial prowess akin to Schuybroek’s own composed architecture. “Nicolas and I worked closely on the book concept, pace and edit of the book from start to finish,” Lehn notes, “our role was to design and concept the structure and design system of the book,” regularly meeting twice a year whilst reviewing monthly on the book’s layout and image selection. “We’ve known each other for some time,” Lehn concludes, “so the process was quite natural and naturally progressed over time into a final product.” Poised, stark and sophisticated, the book exemplifies the power of design and context harmonised; depicting both a unique record of a spectacular practice, and a beautiful object in its own right.