Rem Koolhass is the optimistic and bold theoretician of contemporary architecture. In his talks with Hans-Ulrich Obrist, he discusses his work in China - amongst others; his spectacular and controversial concept for the headquarters of China Central Television in Beijing; and his designs for Prada shops, where consumption is staged like art. This book looks at Koolhaas' role as counselor for the EU, as well as his views on architecture as metaphor and on the development of urbanism in the slipstream of globalization. "The Conversation Series" of titles presents a number of interviews between Hans Ulrich Obrist and leading figures in art and architecture, including Robert Crumb, John Chamberlain, Rosemarie Trockel, Wolfgang Tillmans, Zaha Hadid, Gilbert, and George.