In writing for Globescope, I wonder about the next story, who’s my favourite architect? What are my favourite projects? Who’s work is consistency excellent and pushes the boundaries? There’s all the usual incredible architects like Herzog & de Meuron or David Chipperfield or Neri & Hu but for some reason Swiss architect Peter Zumthor never seems to jump out like those other ‘profile’ architects do. And l am wondering why: his work is beautiful, crafted, expressive, consistent (over years) and l think the answer lies in the work. Like Peter Zumthor himself, his work has a restraint and modesty and in a world of people shouting for attention, Peter Zumthor stands in silence, letting the work do the talking.

I’ll be honest the Hocker stool is one of my favourite pieces of furniture. But that sounds a little limiting because l think its a beautiful object. Yes, you can sit on it or use it as side table but best of all , its just beautiful to look at .

I know, I know, its not a competition. Its not about who’s the best, but…. Swiss architecture firm HDM (Herzog & de Meuron) have created another beautiful project that reinforces what an amazing design practice they are and have been, since being established in 1978 (by Jacques Herzog and Pierre de Meuron).