2024-05-05T16:31:09-04:00 https://archinect.com/features/article/149988795/screen-print-50-rem-koolhaas-discusses-controversy-collaboration-and-cultural-revolution-in-happy-tropics Julia Ingalls 2017-02-22T13:25:00-05:00 >2017-02-22T14:23:01-05:00 <img src="https://archinect.gumlet.io/uploads/qp/qp43mpz4uv9w79up.jpg?fit=crop&auto=compress%2Cformat&enlarge=true&w=1200" border="0" /><p>What is the role of an ethically and aesthetically astute architect in a market-driven economy? For Rem Koolhaas, the obstacles of reality shouldn't hinder architects who wish to contribute works that enhance the public realm. In this discussion with <a href="http://michaelschindhelm.com" target="_blank">Michael Schindhelm</a>&nbsp;excerpted from <a href="http://michaelschindhelm.com/works/happy-tropics-no-1/" target="_blank"><em>Happy Tropics 1</em></a>, Koolhaas explains how by working in Asia, he has not only witnessed the increasing cultural influence of the East versus the West, but also retained his idealism, drive, and desire for collaboration.</p>