Mid-Century Britain: Modern Architecture 1938-1963

Elain Harwood is a leading expert and passionate advocate of modern British architecture, and her book "Mid-Century Buildings: An Architectural Guide" provides an overview of British architecture from 1938 to 1963. The book covers a wide range of buildings, from prefabs and ice cream parlors to Coventry Cathedral and the Golden Lane Estate, and is written in non-technical, layman's language. The author has arranged the buildings into categories such as houses and flats, churches and public buildings, offices, shops, showrooms and cafes, hotels and public houses, cinemas, theaters and concert halls, and industrial buildings and transport. The book also includes an insightful introduction that places these buildings in the context of 20th-century architecture generally and globally, and is accompanied by fantastic photographs.

Format: Hardback
Length: 288 pages
Publication date: 14 October 2021
Publisher: Pavilion Books

Elain Harwood, a renowned expert and passionate advocate of modern British architecture, provides an insightful overview of British architecture from 1938 to 1963, encompassing the mid-century era. This period witnessed a surge in popularity and recognition of these buildings' significance as a backdrop to our daily lives. The buildings showcased range from iconic landmarks like the Royal Festival Hall in London, Newcastle City Hall, and Deal Pier and Douglas ferry terminal, to lesser-known but equally remarkable structures such as prefabs, ice cream parlours, Coventry Cathedral, and the Golden Lane Estate.

The author writes in a non-technical and accessible manner, delving into the design, architecture, and the profound impact these buildings have had on the towns and cities they inhabit. The author has meticulously organized the diverse range of buildings into various categories, including Houses and Flats, Churches and Public Buildings, Offices, Shops, Showrooms and Cafes, Hotels and Public Houses, Cinemas, Theatres and Concert Halls, Industrial Buildings, and Transport. Additionally, there is an insightful introduction that contextualizes these buildings within the broader realm of 20th-century architecture both locally and globally.

The book is adorned with stunning photographs that vividly capture the beauty and essence of these architectural treasures. Whether you are an architecture enthusiast, a history buff, or simply someone interested in the built heritage of Britain, this book is a must-have. It offers a captivating journey through the postwar era, showcasing the innovative and visionary designs of British architects as they sought to enhance the quality of life for their constituents.

Weight: 1198g
Dimension: 196 x 251 x 30 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781849946865