The book investigates the architectural evolution and defining projects of the Swiss firm Herzog & de Meuron from its inception to the early 2000s. This monograph, edited by Luis Fernández-Galiano, traces the trajectory of Herzog & de Meuron, beginning in the late 1970s and extending through the turn of the century. It features over 40 significant buildings and projects, illustrating the firm's growth from smaller-scale residences to internationally recognized landmarks such as Prada Aoyama, the National Stadium in Beijing, CaixaForum Madrid, and the De Young Museum in San Francisco. The text specifically highlights the pivotal period around 1998 when the firm underwent a transformation, embracing material experimentation that would come to characterize their later work.

This monograph is recognized for its thorough documentation of Herzog & de Meuron's formative years and their significant architectural contributions. The selection of projects provides a clear visual history of the firm's evolving design philosophy and scale of work. The text emphasizes the critical period of reinvention in 1998, underscoring the firm's experimental approach to materials. It serves as a valuable resource for understanding the roots of a practice that has become globally influential.