The Ideal Communist City: The I Press Series on the Human Environment

Mary Otis Stevens and Thomas McNulty initiated i Press in 1968, which focused on the social context of architecture. The Ideal Communist City (1969) was a response to suburban development and its focus on private spaces for family life. This publication is a facsimile of the original book with additional texts by architectural historians and the editors.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 192 pages
Publication date: 17 November 2022
Publisher: Weiss Publications

In the vibrant era of 1960s Soviet urbanism, a visionary tract emerged, showcasing the remarkable achievements of American architect Mary Otis Stevens (born 1928) and her esteemed partner, fellow architect Thomas McNulty (1919–84). Their collaborative endeavor led to the establishment of i Press, an influential imprint dedicated to exploring the social context of architecture. Over the course of five years, the duo released a series of five books, each centered around the thematic umbrella of "Human Environment." The inaugural volume in this series, titled "The Ideal Communist City," was a groundbreaking English translation of urban concepts advanced by architects and planners from the esteemed University of Moscow. This seminal work first graced the pages of a Soviet journal dedicated to communist youth organizations in 1960, and later found its way to readers in Italy in 1968.

"The Ideal Communist City" emerged as a direct response to the prevailing suburban development trend, which prioritized private spaces for family life. In contrast, this visionary publication offered a fresh perspective on mobility, equity, and social interaction in neighborhood planning. It envisioned a new city as a shared realm, belonging to all and each individual, where life was intricately structured by freely chosen relationships that encompassed the fullest and most well-rounded aspects of human personality.

This publication serves as a magnificent facsimile of "The Ideal Communist City," complemented by insightful texts provided by architectural historians and the editors themselves. It stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of Mary Otis Stevens and Thomas McNulty, whose visionary ideas continue to shape the discourse on urban design and the human environment. Through their dedication to social responsibility and architectural excellence, they left an indelible mark on the architectural landscape, inspiring generations to come.

Weight: 227g
Dimension: 152 x 229 x 13 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783948318161