Towards a New Architecture (Dover Architecture)

ISBN: 0486250237

Author: Le Corbusier

Condition: New

Profusely illustrated, this pioneering manifesto by the founder of the "International School" emphasizes his technical and aesthetic theories, views of industry and economics, the relation of form to function, "mass-production split," and much more.For the Swiss-born architect and city planner Le Corbusier (Charles-Édouard Jeanneret, 1887-1965), architecture constituted a noble art, an exalted calling in which the architect combined plastic invention, intellectual speculation, and higher mathematics to go beyond mere utilitarian needs, beyond "style," to achieve a pure creation of the spirit which established "emotional relationships using raw materials."The first major exposition of his ideas appeared in Vers une Architecture (1923), a compilation of articles written by Le Corbusier for his avant-garde magazine, L'Esprit Nouveau. The present volume is an unabridged English translation of the 13th French edition of that historic manifesto, in which Le Corbusier expounded his technical and aesthetic theories, views on industry, economics, relation of form to function, the "mass-production spirit," and much else. A principal prophet of the "modern" movement in architecture anda near-legendary figure of the "International School," he designed some of the twentieth century's most memorable buildings: Chapel at Ronchamp; Swiss dormitory at the Cité Universitaire, Paris; Unité d'Habitation, Marseilles; and many more.Le Corbusier brought great passion and intelligence to these essays, which present his ideas in a concise, pithy style, studded with epigrammatic, often provocative, observations: "American engineers overwhelm with their calculations our expiring architecture." "Architecture is stifled by custom. It is the only profession in which progress is not considered necessary." "A cathedral is not very beautiful . . ." and "Rome is the damnation of the half-educated. To send architectural students to Rome is to cripple them for life."Profusely illustrated with over 200 line drawings and photographs of his own works and other structures he considered important, Towards a New Architecture is indispensable reading for architects, city planners, and cultural historians-but will intrigue anyone fascinated by the wide-ranging ideas, unvarnished opinions, and innovative theories of one of this century's master builders.Revolutionary Concepts:Towards a New Architecture by Le Corbusier introduces groundbreaking ideas about modern architecture and passionately argues for a departure from styles of the past. Global Influence on Urban Planning: Learn how Le Corbusier's ideas transcended architecture to influence urban planning and housing worldwide, advocating for cities that cater to the needs of modern society, transportation, and technology. Foundational Text for Design Enthusiasts: An indispensable resource for architects, city planners, and cultural historians, offering insights into the technical, aesthetic theories, and visionary ideas of one of the 20th-century architectural geniuses. Iconic Designs and Innovations: Explore Le Corbusier's most iconic 20th-century buildings, including the Chapel at Ronchamp and Unité d'Habitation in Marseilles, and understand the philosophy driving their designs. Provocative Observations on Architecture and Society: Engage with Le Corbusier's often provocative insights on the profession of architecture, the impact of American engineering, and the constraints of tradition on creativity. Over 200 Illustrative Works: Richly illustrated with line drawings and photographs, this volume not only presents Le Corbusier's architectural achievements but also showcases structures that have been pivotal in the evolution of modern architectural thought. Essential Reading for Modern Architects: This seminal work is not just for architects but anyone interested in the evolution of modern architecture and urban planning. It remains a crucial text for understanding the principles that continue to shape our metropolitan environment and the vision of one of architecture's most influential figures.