Introduction

This introduction presents an overview of key concepts covered in the subsequent chapters of this book. The book starts the journey into the raw by scrutinising the elements of sand, water and wind in relation to the metropolis of Berlin. It looks at the way geological and other material and cultural processes of formation in Ruskin's theoretical and artistic work may function as generators for understanding architecture. The book focuses on the role played by remembrance and the blurred borders between nature and culture in Ruskin's thinking. It shows that human wellbeing depends on successful integration between nature and architecture. The book examines nature in sacred buildings. It discusses architecture as a means of making atmospheres that retain their natural character. The book analyses a work of art integrated in architecture, but connected to scenery and urban landscape through its size and placement, as well as three site-integrated works of art located on the embankment of the Drammen River.