Big Idea: Criticality and Practice in Contemporary Architecture

Scott Johnson,

ISBN 10: 1890449385 / ISBN 13: 9781890449384

Published by Balcony Press July 2006, 2006

About this Item

Scott Johnson is the highly acclaimed designer of some of L.A.'s most recognized architecture. As partner in the award-winning Los Angeles architecture ?rm Johnson Fain he was the creative force behind extraordinary buildings such as the Sun America Building and the Fox Toweraffectionately nicknamed the 'Die Hard Building' after its starring role in the ?lm. In this engaging memoir, Johnson shares his personal experiences as a designer and considers the relationship between practice andtheory over the last forty years of American architecture. From his childhood days in California's Salinas Valley, to his tenure with legendary architect Philip Johnson, to his time with Skidmore Owings &Merrill, to the formation of his own ?rm and its rise toward the top of the architectural ?rmament, Johnsons unique insight makes for a fascinating discussion of each of the major movements that have characterized the world of architecture since Modernism in one of America's most interesting metropolises.

Seller Inventory # 20110224134128

Bibliographic Details

• Title: Big Idea: Criticality and Practice in Contemporary Architecture
• Publisher: Balcony Press July 2006
• Publication Date: 2006
• Language: English
• ISBN 10: 1890449385
• ISBN 13: 9781890449384
• Binding: Trade Paperback
• Condition: Used - Very Good
• Seller catalogs:
  • Architecture - Theory

About this title

Synopsis

Taking an applied look at big theoretical ideas, this is an accessible read of complex philosophical ideas. It includes a bibliographic reference of critical architectural thinkers - vital information for students and professional designers alike. This book uses an autobiographical approach to explore issues of how large theoretical ideas influence (or not) day-to-day architectural practice. The author, Scott Johnson, has over the last few decades been privileged to work in rarified environments in Berkeley, New York and Los Angeles where big ideas were emerging. His professional experiences with some of the most important names in the industry are both informative and entertaining in this very personal journey through the overarching themes of contemporary architecture and the discovery of professional practice.

Product Description

Rare Book