Architect Karl van Es Launches Åvontuura Guide to Madrid After Leaving Practice

After two decades as a practicing architect, Karl van Es founded Åvontuura, an independent publisher of illustrated architecture guides. The latest release covers Madrid, mapping 70 significant buildings with hand-drawn illustrations, architect credits, and QR codes linking to a digital pin map. The guides focus on modern and contemporary works, with key historic sites noted. The series now covers over 35 cities. Van Es, a Canadian architect inspired by Dutch innovation, named the venture Åvontuura—a blend of 'avontuur' (Dutch for adventure) and 'a' for architecture. The guides are designed as physical tools for architects who travel to see buildings, addressing the lack of professional travel resources. The Madrid edition includes landmarks like CaixaForum Madrid by Herzog & de Meuron and Hospital Rey Juan Carlos by Rafael de La-Hoz. Åvontuura is based in Toronto, Canada.