Description
Though each entry in this beautifully illustrated compendium is intended to stand on its own, together they form a history of a period that in turn fits visibly into the larger history of architecture itself. Baborsky (translated from Italian by Jay Hyams) explains that "the buildings presented in this book would not fit the commodious but out-of-date definitions of masterpieces of the twentieth century. Rather, they are meant to reveal the internal contradictions in the birth of the Modern phenomenon in architecture." Works from around the world are organized alphabetically by architect; they are followed by brief biographies of the 110 architects, but there's no index. A lovely book in spite of the tininess of its type. Annotation ©2004 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)
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A fascinating overview of the key buildings and most influential architects of the 20th Century. The 20th century witnessed some of the most exciting and innovative architecture the world has ever seen. New materials, rapidly evolving technology and progressive theories and techniques all resulted in radical new designs and striking buildings. 20th Century Architecture provides a fascinating overview of these landmark buildings and the architects who created them. Beginning with an essay on the development of architecture across the century it goes on to focus on key buildings from around the world. Each building is covered in a double-page spread featuring striking photographs, sample plans and full text descriptions. Each description provides details of the location, history of construction, key influences on design and function and artistic style of the building. Features 148 buildings including: Empire State Building, New York Guggenheim Museums, New York and Bilbao Best Product Supermarkets, Houston and Sacramento Yale University Hockey Field Tate Modern Museum, London Pompidou Centre, Paris Santa Maria Cathedral, Tokyo Opera House, Sydney Hong Kong and Shanghai Bank, Hong Kong It concludes with an index of the most important and influential architects of the 20th century including Frank Lloyd Wright, Frank O. Gehry, Norman Foster, Le Corbusier and many others. Beautifully produced with attractive four colour pictures throughout Portable and accessible – double-page spread per topic makes this an ideal book to use in the field. Provides a wealth of information about some of the most striking buildings in existence. Provides a fascinating overview of the development of architecture across the 20th century. Accessible price point for the consumer market.
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