Title: Towards a New Architecture
Author: Le Corbusier
Publisher: Dover Publications
Publication Year: 1985
# of Pages: 318
ISBN-13: 9780486250236
Recommended by: Dr. Vittorino Belpoliti
Le Corbusier's book was first written in French in 1923 under the title of "Vers Une Architecture". It was then translated to English by Frederick Etchells in 1927, who also wrote the introduction. This book is a collection of Le Corbusier's essays calling for the use and exploration of modern architecture. Though it was released well over 95 years ago, it still remains to be one of the most significant architectural resources of our time.
In his book, Le Corbusier stresses the importance of designing architecture that meets the needs and demands of the people, rather than hyper-focusing on excessively decorated buildings. Good architecture is architecture that is successful functionally while still provoking positive emotions from the people.
Blacktansa provided an interesting take in their review for the book. They state that the book was conceived as a reaction to the inability of architects to suitable habitats for the evolving needs of the people. Today, however, we find ourselves designing buildings and forcing upon them artificial lighting and air conditions rather than utilize design techniques to achieve our desired human comfort needs, and we are now facing the consequences. Truly, this 90 year old book might guide us back to the right track.
This book can be found online.
Check out these Book Reviews by Blacktansa, Ecem Olgun and Osman Yozgat!