Architecture is built history and not only a testament to historical processes or engineering achievements, but also holds significant sociological value. As a central institution for archiving North Rhine-Westphalian architecture and civil engineering, the Baukunstarchiv NRW will open in autumn 2018 in Dortmund at the site of the former Museum am Ostwall. The historic building, which itself has a tumultuous history, will not only serve as an archive but also as a venue for presentation and discussion - a public space for architectural cultural discourse. The Kettler publishing house will accompany the Baukunstarchiv as a cooperation partner from the very beginning. The book published on the occasion of the opening exhibition provides a detailed overview of the extensive archive holdings and estates.