The Life and Legacy of Rem Koolhaas

Rem Koolhaas was born in Rotterdam in 1944. He initially pursued screenwriting before transitioning to architecture. Koolhaas studied at the Architectural Association School of Architecture in London, where he began to develop his unique approach to design and urban theory.

In 1975, Koolhaas founded the Office for Metropolitan Architecture (OMA) with Elia Zenghelis, Madelon Vriesendorp, and Zoe Zenghelis. OMA became known for its innovative and unconventional projects, blending architectural practice with urbanism and cultural critique.

Koolhaas’s notable projects include the Seattle Central Library, the CCTV Headquarters in Beijing, and the Casa da Música in Porto. His designs often challenge traditional architectural forms, incorporating elements of modernism and emphasizing the relationship between architecture and society.

Beyond architecture, Koolhaas has influenced fashion and media. He collaborated with Prada on retail spaces and runway designs, and his book 'Delirious New York' inspired many urban theorists and planners. His interdisciplinary approach continues to shape various creative fields.

Rem Koolhaas has received numerous accolades, including the Pritzker Architecture Prize in 2000. His work and theories have left an indelible mark on contemporary architecture, and he remains a pivotal figure in discussions about urbanism and the built environment.

Koolhaas co-wrote a screenplay that became a cult classic Dutch film, 'The White Slave' (1969), before his pivot to architecture.