Modern Architecture Since 1900 by William J R Curtis

Modern Architecture Since 1900 by William J R Curtis was first published in 1982 and has become established as a contemporary classic. Worldwide in scope, it sets out a clear historical outline alongside analysis and interpretation, bringing technical, economic, social and intellectual developments into a single, comprehensive narrative.

The book provides a framework for detailed examination of buildings, with the author’s attention consistently placed on the individual architect and on the qualities that give outstanding buildings their lasting value. In the third edition, the text has been radically revised and expanded, adding substantial new material and a renewed appreciation of regional identity and variety, with seven entirely new chapters and expanded coverage of recent world architecture.

Key details

• Author: William J R Curtis
• First published in 1982
• Third edition text revised and expanded
• Includes seven entirely new chapters
• Expanded coverage of recent world architecture

Synopsis

This study of modern architecture combines historical overview with analysis and interpretation, drawing together technical, economic, social and intellectual developments. It examines buildings in detail while maintaining a focus on individual architects and the qualities that underpin the lasting value of outstanding work.

The third edition incorporates extensive new material and a fresh appreciation of regional identity and variety, including new chapters and broader coverage of recent architecture worldwide. James Ackerman of Harvard University described it as “immeasurably the finest work covering this field in existence”.