- Connects the practice of architecture with its recent history and its theoretical origins - analysing in straightforward and jargon-free language the genesis of modernism and the complex reactions to it
- Provides students with a clear understanding of the history of twentieth-century architecture, written with close critical attention to the theories that lie behind the built works described
- Illustrated with 200 colour and black and white illustrations, it is an enormously clear and accessible resource for any student of architecture
Nicholas Ray, currently a Visiting Professor at the University of Liverpool, practised and taught at Cambridge for more than 40 years, where he is an Emeritus Fellow of Jesus College. Previous publications include monographs on Alvar Aalto and Rafael Moneo and co-authored books and articles with Christian Illies, a German philosopher.
Title: Thinking Through Twentieth-Century Architecture
Author: Ray, Nicholas
ISBN: 9781032156125
Binding:
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd
Publication Date: 2023-02-08
Number of Pages: 298
Weight: 0.7902 kg
This book is welcome for treating theory and practice together, as the architects of the period did, giving students tackling current concerns a coherent account of the built legacy of twentieth-century architecture and 'where it all came from'.
Harry Charrington, Head of School of Architecture and Cities, University of Westminster
This book is the fruit of a lifetime's consistent engagement with modern architecture's moral and aesthetic aims. Nicholas Ray writes with a lucidity and a seriousness of purpose that are much needed amidst the cultural confusion of today.
Andrew Saint, author, formerly editor of the Survey of London and historian at Historic England
This book will be welcomed by practicing architects because it stimulates us to look beyond the usual day-to-day preoccupations - describing a philosophical dimension which Ray argues has always accompanied 'thoughtful buildings' and which must surely be central in determining our profession's priorities in the face of unprecedented existential challenges.
Ben Zucchi, Principal & Chair of Architecture Profession, BDP
Why were early modern architects so hell-bent on their agenda? Why were reactions to it so passionately debated? What's with all the manifestos? Why did it all matter so much? Understanding the to-and-fro of twentieth-century modernism is indispensable for anyone wanting to understand architecture today, but navigating its waters requires a gentle, patient and plain-spoken guide. Fortunately, we have Nick Ray for this. A keen observer, a sometime participant and experienced teacher, Ray is the ideal guide for explaining not only the 'what happened?' of modern architecture, but more importantly, the 'why?' of a movement that ultimately conquered the world.
Tom Spector, Oklahoma University, General Editor Journal of the International Society for the Philosophy of Architecture
