Against Architecture

SKU: PR265552

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Shipping for this item is FREE; however, please allow 6 weeks for delivery. Please note that once you place your order, we cannot process cancellations.

Condition: BRAND NEW
ISBN: 9781604864069
Format: Trade paperback (US)
Year: 2012
Publisher: PM Press

Immerse yourself in the thought-provoking treatise, *Against Architecture*, a pivotal work that critiques the current architectural landscape dominated by 'archistars.' Originally published in 2008 and now available in English, this essential read challenges the prevailing norms of urban design, questioning how celebrity architects shape our cities for personal gain rather than public benefit. Author Franco La Cecla passionately argues that modern architecture has strayed from its foundational purpose, prompting readers to reconsider the value of our urban spaces.

In *Against Architecture*, La Cecla presents a compelling narrative interwoven with concepts like Casino Capitalism, which has led to failed projects seen in cities like Barcelona and New York. His reflections, inspired by the 2006 Paris uprisings and wanderings through San Francisco, inspire readers to reclaim urban environments from the hands of planners focused solely on branding.

This book not only reflects on the works of esteemed urban thinkers such as Robert Byron and Rebecca Solnit but also equips readers with insights into resisting the homogenization of urban life. *Against Architecture* is more than just a critique; it is a clarion call for everyone who values the spirit of place over the tyranny of design. Don’t miss your chance to own this significant contribution to architectural discourse.

Shipping for this item is FREE, however please allow 6 weeks for shipping, please note once you place the order we are not able to cancel it.

Condition: BRAND NEW
ISBN: 9781604864069
Format: Trade paperback (US)
Year: 2012
Publisher: PM Press


Description:


First published in 2008, (as Contro l’architettura), Against Architecture has been translated into French and Greek, with editions forthcoming in Polish and Portuguese. The book is a passionate and erudite charge against the celebrities of the current architectural world, the “archistars.” According to Franco La Cecla, architecture has lost its way and its true function, as the archistars use the cityscape to build their brand, putting their stamp on the built environment with no regard for the public good.

More than a diatribe against the trade for which he trained, Franco La Cecla issues a call to rethink urban space, to take our cities back from what he calls Casino Capitalism, which has left a string of failed urban projects, from the Sagrera of Barcelona to the expansion of Columbia University in New York City. He finds hope and some surprising answers in the 2006 uprisings in the Parisian suburbs and in wandering the streets of San Francisco. La Cecla recounts his peregrinations, whether as a consultant to urban planners or as an incorrigible flaneur, all the while giving insights into how we might find a way to resist the tyranny of the planners and find the spirit of place. As he comments throughout on the works of past and present masters of urban and landscape writing, including Robert Byron, Mike Davis, and Rebecca Solnit, Franco La Cecla has given us a book that will take an important place in our public discourse.

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