Neorealist Architecture: Aesthetics of Dwelling in Postwar Italy

This book explores the links between architecture, filmmaking, and the built environment in post-war Italy, examining how neorealism manifested itself in architecture. It is the first book to be published on neorealism in architecture and is illustrated with over 100 black and white archival images. It appeals to scholars, professionals, and students interested in history, theory, architecture, Italian studies, art history, and cultural studies.

Format: Hardback
Length: 222 pages
Publication date: 31 October 2022
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

After World War II, a surge of Italian films emerged that vividly portrayed the lives and struggles of individuals left vulnerable by the conflict, bringing to the screen the profound existential angst and uncertainty of a time. This form of filmmaking, closely associated with the broader artistic movement known as 'neorealism,' holds a significant place in the history of Italian cinema. However, neorealism extended beyond the realm of film and permeated various artistic domains, including architecture. What then defined 'neorealist architecture'? This captivating book delves into the intricate connections between architecture, filmmaking, and the built environment in post-war Italy (194X-195X), aiming to ascertain whether and how neorealism manifested itself in architectural design. During these years, terms such as 'neorealist architecture' or 'architectural neorealism' were hinted at and later recalled by historians of architecture in the following decades. Consequently, the concept of 'neorealist architecture' was adopted ad hoc and popularized post hoc, without any explicit declarations prior to 1955 that defined its essence or aspirations. Despite its widespread internalization within Italian architectural history, the full understanding of the transfer between neorealism, as an aesthetic and ethic, and architecture, as a potential medium for its embodiment or expression, remains incomplete. Thus, the primary objective of this book is to engage in a comprehensive exploration of the concept of 'neorealist architecture,' with the working assumption that the relationship between these two terms holds profound significance.

The book is meticulously illustrated with over 100 black and white archival images, enhancing its visual appeal and providing a rich historical context. Moreover, it stands as the first comprehensive study on the subject, offering a deep dive into the intricate interplay between architecture, filmmaking, and the socio-political landscape of post-war Italy.

In conclusion, this captivating book offers a valuable contribution to the field of architectural history, shedding light on the fascinating relationship between neorealism and architecture in post-war Italy. Through its meticulous research, insightful analysis, and stunning visual presentation, it provides a comprehensive understanding of this pivotal period and its enduring impact on the world of architecture.

Weight: 600g
Dimension: 246 x 174 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032235073