Thinking Through Twentieth-Century Architecture

"This book is welcome for treating theory and practice together, as the architects of the period did, giving students tackling current concerns a coherent account of the built legacy of twentieth-century architecture and ‘where it all came from’."

Harry Charrington, Head of School of Architecture and Cities, University of Westminster

"This book is the fruit of a lifetime’s consistent engagement with modern architecture’s moral and aesthetic aims. Nicholas Ray writes with a lucidity and a seriousness of purpose that are much needed amidst the cultural confusion of today."

Andrew Saint, author, formerly editor of the Survey of London and historian at Historic England

"This book will be welcomed by practicing architects because it stimulates us to look beyond the usual day-to-day preoccupations – describing a philosophical dimension which Ray argues has always accompanied ‘thoughtful buildings’ and which must surely be central in determining our profession’s priorities in the face of unprecedented existential challenges."

Ben Zucchi, Principal & Chair of Architecture Profession, BDP

"Why were early modern architects so hell-bent on their agenda? Why were reactions to it so passionately debated? What’s with all the manifestos? Why did it all matter so much? Understanding the to-and-fro of twentieth-century modernism is indispensable for anyone wanting to understand architecture today, but navigating its waters requires a gentle, patient and plain-spoken guide. Fortunately, we have Nick Ray for this. A keen observer, a sometime participant and experienced teacher, Ray is the ideal guide for explaining not only the ‘what happened?’ of modern architecture, but more importantly, the ‘why?’ of a movement that ultimately conquered the world."

Tom Spector, Oklahoma University, General Editor Journal of the International Society for the Philosophy of Architecture

“Weaving between architectural practice and theory, this books explores design through the convictions of their creators….An outline of each architect is provided with a summary of key designs and theories. The book will therefore serve as a useful resource for a wide market, including students…..and if the philosophical approach deters casual audiences, illustrations on almost every page will help.”

Alborz Dianat, C20 Magazine

"Ray combines short biographies, project descriptions, historical contexts, and a panoply of secondary literature to present readers with the fundamentals of numerous architects’ works, their design principles, the larger architectural culture of their time, and the present relevance of their ideas. An abundance of representative images illustrates each step of the narrative like visual footnotes […] it fulfils its purpose by retelling a familiar story in an abridged and accessible yet intricate and informative way."

André Patrão, Drawing Matter