Modern Architecture Through Case Studies

Peter Blundell Jones details the inadequacy of the first histories of the Modern Movement by revealing the existence of suppressed alternative traditions within the movement and shows their great diversity through the use of case studies. Each case is analysed in detail then used as a springboard to explore different theoretical approaches. Case studies are shown to be the most effective way to explore this diversity and to get closer to the buildings discussed. Blundell Jones uses the Weissenhof as a general comparative study that is followed by single examples by chosen architects, each taking a particular set of themes. It reappraises the modern movement with this informative, scholarly and insightful text. You can learn a new approach to the debates surrounding modern architecture and theory. It includes case studies that illustrate the theory in a clear and accessible style.

Table of Contents:
Introduction;The Weissenhofsiedlung 1927; Hugo Haring, Garkau Farm, near Lubeck 1923-5; Walter Gropius, the Bauhaus Building, Dessau 1925; Jan Duiker, Zonnestraal Sanatorium, Hilversum 1926; Bruno Taut, Housing at Onkel Toms Hutte, Berlin 1926-30; Erich Mendelsohn, Schocken Store, Stuttgart 1927; Le Corbudier, Villa Savoye, Poissy 1929; Alvar Aalto, Viipuri Library 1928-35; Pier Luigi Nervi, Aircraft hanger, Orvieto 1935; Giuseppe Terragni, Casa del Fascio, Como 1936; Gunnar Asplund, Lawcourts extension, Gothenburg 1913-37; Frank Lloyd Wright, one of his Usonian houses, USA 1938; Hans Scharoun, Mannheim Theatre Project 1953; Ludwig Mies van der Rohe, new National Gallery, Berlin 1958-68; Sigurd Lewerentz, St Peter's Church at Klippan 1963; Louis Kahn, Kimbell Art Gallery, Fort Worth 1968; Conclusion.

Review :
Voted one of 2003's 'Books of the Year' by the Architect's Journal 'Peter Blundell Jones has compiled a first rate selection of detailed case studies of modern architecture which should really be required reading for every student.' The Architectural Review 'The use of case studies gives the subject a tangible feel providing a close link between theory and practice. The illustrations are well judged and plentiful, the text is both scholarly, accessible and, in places, contentious.' RIBA Bookshops review 'The idea of discussing modern architecture through a series of specific built designs seems to me excellent and emphasises the tangible aspect of architecture. It does not prevent making linkages between ideas about buildings but focuses on the fact that most projects are realised in a particular place for a particular client by a particular architect. I am therefore extremely sympathetic to the assumption behind this book' Professor Michael Brawne '... what I have read is clear, direct, informative, scholarly, designerly and insightful ... I found it to be an optimistic book and therefore one which may have a positive role to play in enhancing the statue of modern architecture'. Dr Julienne Hanson