Architectural Traces: A Unique Perspective on Dalmatian Architecture

Stjepko Rosin's Award-Winning Publication Sheds Light on the Realities of Architectural Practice

The inspiration for Architectural Traces came from the disappearing Dalmatian architecture and the works of renowned architect Jerko Rosin. The publication is a tribute to Rosin's modest, considerate, and rational approach to architecture, which stands in stark contrast to the trendy views often imposed by insatiable investors. The book's design reflects the physical and emotional toll of this struggle, revealing the painful traces left on an architect's life.

What sets Architectural Traces apart is its unique cover design. From a distance, the sloping side of the cover resembles a roof with typical Dalmatian Roman tiles, an optical illusion created by images of the actual Magnetic resonance of the architect's spine. As one approaches the book, these images come into focus, revealing the hidden and painful reality of a responsible architect.

The book's format was carefully chosen to match the quality content of the publication. It is printed on high-quality offset paper, with a hard, stitched binding without an outer paper wrapper. The dimensions of the book are 270 mm x 270 mm x 35 mm, making it convenient for leafing through.

The book's design also communicates when closed, but it comes to full expression during use. When the book is opened, the cover comes into its oblique position, further enhancing the optical illusion of the architect's spine. This innovative design approach was realized through a combination of technical expertise and creative vision.

The project was initiated in October 2019 in Split and completed in January 2020. It was exhibited in the Hotel Park congress hall in January 2020. The design process was informed by almost a lifelong experience of living in the same household with an architect, witnessing the successes, injustices, pressures, threats, sleepless nights, and health problems associated with the profession.

The main challenge was to accurately portray the life of an architect, which is often misunderstood and misrepresented in society. The design successfully shows that not all architects are the same and that the profession involves significant physical and emotional strain. This unique perspective on architecture earned Architectural Traces the Iron A' Print and Published Media Design Award in 2022, a prestigious accolade awarded to well-designed, practical, and innovative creations.