In Search of Home: Sacred Sites, Symbols, and Modern Design

Throughout history, humanity has taken inspiration from its surroundings when it comes to creating spaces, going beyond mere physicality. Sacred Sites, curated by Jessica Hundley, investigates the artistry and architecture associated with worship, tracing humanity’s pursuit of a connection to the divine. From ancient temples sculpted from rugged terrain to innovative sanctuaries, this book honors the intricate relationship between creativity and spirituality. It analyzes how gathering, pilgrimage, and artistic contributions have influenced sacred landscapes, ranging from monumental pyramids and forest altars to contemporary architectural wonders. Hundley’s work stands as a tribute to the lasting impact of sacred art and its capacity to unite humanity across different times, cultures, and places.

Sacred Sites. The Library of Esoterica by Jessica Hundley, Taschen

Equally transformative is the narrative explored in Transformative Visions, where Kikan Massara examines the Twelve-Step Program, a fundamental aspect of holistic recovery. This edition showcases the program through a combination of visual artistry and literary storytelling, featuring over 150 artistic pieces alongside insights drawn from psychology and mythology. The Twelve Steps, which have their origins in early 20th-century America and were shaped by the ideas of figures such as Carl Jung, have evolved into a widely used framework for addressing addiction and compulsion. Massara’s viewpoint merges art, literature, and science to highlight the program’s lasting significance, providing a healing journey that is both approachable and deeply meaningful. Her work emphasizes the importance of creativity in exploring internal experiences and promoting personal growth.

The 12 Steps. Symbols, Myths, and Archetypes of Recovery by Kikan Massara, Taschen

Looking forward, Philip Jodidio’s Houses of the Future presents groundbreaking architecture that mirrors humanity’s changing connection with both technology and nature. Showcasing 59 innovative projects from 25 different countries, the book emphasizes designs that prioritize sustainability, adapt to local conditions, and challenge creative limits. From 3D-printed earthen houses in Italy to Hyderabad’s House of Gardens, these residences illustrate how advanced technology facilitates a harmonious relationship with the environment. Jodidio’s compilation demonstrates how architecture is evolving in response to global issues, creating spaces that are not only practical but also closely aligned with their surroundings.

Homes for Our Time. Contemporary Houses around the World. Vol. 3 by Philip Jodidio, Taschen

Together, these pieces examine the human tendency to create environments imbued with deeper significance, healing, and innovation. Whether it’s Hundley’s investigation into sacred artistry, Massara’s visual tribute to recovery, or Jodidio’s homage to revolutionary architecture, each publication emphasizes the relationship between creativity, spirituality, and advancement. These spaces, both tangible and abstract, showcase the boundless potential of human creativity and the collective yearning to connect with something larger than ourselves.

In our constantly evolving world, these books remind us of the influence of spaces—sacred, transformative, and forward-thinking—that mirror our highest ideals. As humanity continues to progress and adapt, these works act as guiding lights, leading us toward a future where art, spirituality, and sustainability blend.

Image Credit: Taschen