Le Corbusier Livres

For Swiss-born architect and city planner Le Corbusier (Charles-Édouard Jeanneret, 1887–1965), architecture was a noble art that transcended utilitarian needs, aiming for a pure creation of the spirit through the combination of invention, speculation, and mathematics. His seminal work, Vers une Architecture (1923), originally a series of articles for his avant-garde magazine L'Esprit Nouveau, presents his technical and aesthetic theories, views on industry and economics, and the relationship between form and function. As a leading figure of the modern architectural movement and the International School, Le Corbusier designed iconic buildings such as the Chapel at Ronchamp and the Unité d'Habitation in Marseilles. His essays are infused with passion and intelligence, featuring concise, provocative statements like "Architecture is stifled by custom" and critiques of traditional education in architecture. This unabridged English translation of the 13th French edition is richly illustrated with over 200 drawings and photographs of his works and other significant structures. It is essential reading for architects, city planners, and cultural historians, while also appealing to anyone intrigued by the innovative theories and unfiltered opinions of one of the century's master builders.

"Le phénomène gigantesque de la grande ville se développera dans les verdures joyeuses. L'unité dans le détail, le "tumulte" magnifique dans l'ensemble, la commune mesure humaine et la moyenne proportionnelle entre le fait homme et le fait nature." Le Corbusier.

L'éd. originale de cet ouvrage a été publ. en 1925 sous le titre "L'art décoratif d'aujourd'hui" par les éd. G. Grès et Cie à Paris.

Vieille de plus d'un quart de siècle La Charte d'Athènes reste en tous points à l'ordre du jour : qu'il s'agisse de l'habitation, des loisirs, du travail, de la circulation ou encore de la sauvegarde du patrimoine historique des villes, les observations sur lesquelles est fondé ce manifeste montrent que "le chaos est entré dans les villes" et y demeure ...

Originally published as a catalogue to accompany an exhibition with the same name in 1987, this new edition re-examines the respective merits of two giants of Modern Architecture Adolf Loos and Le Corbusier. As well as featuring writings by the two architects, the book illustrates their respective evolution, with detailed reference to their domestic projects, ranging from the Strasser House (1919) to the Last House (1932), and from the Maison Domino (1915) to Villa Savoye (1932). Features major contributions form Beatriz Colomina, Jan de Heer and Max Risselada, among others.

Le Corbusier's Unité d’habitation in Marseille, constructed between 1946 and 1952, embodies a synthesis of his architectural principles, merging social models with urban planning. This iconic structure has sparked considerable debate, prompting an exploration of the tensions between its ambitious intentions and actual impact. Despite facing criticism, the building remains popular among its residents, offering functional benefits that enhance communal living. Its striking sculptural quality and the dynamic interplay of light and color create a 'personality' that resonates with inhabitants. The design fosters a rich spatial experience, countering the superficiality of modern life with an intensity that engages the senses. From the grand foyer to the vibrant rooftop terrace, and the tranquil residential streets, the building invites a connection with both the sea and mountains. Le Corbusier's atmospheric and scenic architectural techniques provide a cohesive environment that supports individual lives within its spaces. The authors, all qualified architects, delve into the nuances of these effects, with Alban Janson teaching architecture fundamentals, Carsten Krohn as a Berlin-based author, and Anja Grunwald specializing in architectural photography at Karlsruhe University.

Le Corbusier’s “self-portrait” of his career, from his early student days to the completion of the convent at La Tourette, written when he was 71 years old.