As Ian Ritchie's essays chart his development from a young maverick into an astute professional and teacher, his reflections on this journey create a picture of a remarkable artist and innovator who has consistently encouraged experimentation and collaboration in his field, and whose practice dissolves the boundaries of architecture, engineering and industry. Alongside these personal writings, an in-depth commentary by the architectural critic Roger Connah explores Ritchie's achievements, his dynamic mode of working and the unusual position that he occupies at both the centre and the vanguard of architecture today.

"Ian is one of those architects who has been able to understand the subtle connections between the art of construction, the social role and the sense of beauty in architecture... He shows a deep understanding of our profession and this is a very rare attitude in our times." Renzo Piano, architect. "Ian is one of the most respected British architects... Each project is infused with energy and beauty." Jonathan Freeman-Attwood, Principal, Royal College of Music.