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Robert Adam’s new book, Time for Architecture, was published on March 3rd.
PAR002_123 • Feb 26, 2020
Robert Adam’s new book, Time for Architecture, was published on March 3rd.
Using time as a unifying theme, Robert Adam critically analyses many of the key concepts in modern architecture and urban design such as modernity, innovation, timelessness and sustainability. Drawing on the statements of contemporary architects and with reference to a wide range of sources from history, philosophy, sociology and anthropology, as well as a studies in diverse subjects such as science fiction, colonialism and archaeology, he puts a new perspective on much of the thinking behind contemporary design. In addition, Adam develops original and practical theories on the meanings of modernity, the variable ageing of the environment, the central role of longevity in sustainability, the significance of authenticity in conservation, and the relationship between collective memory and tradition.
The book has been endorsed by:
Witold Rybczynski, well-known architectural writer and author of, amongst many works, How Architecture Works: A Humanist’s Toolkit (2013), and former architecture critic for Slate.
“The constant presence of time is a thread that unifies all things and all actions,” writes Robert Adam. Buildings last a long time—which distinguishes them in our throwaway society—and architecture is at the heart of this wide-ranging study of time, memory, tradition, and much else besides. Both modernists and traditionalists will benefit from this thoughtful and engaging book.”
Ellis Woodman, Director, The Architecture Foundation
"This is a book about the ways in which our shared situation in time informs how buildings and people relate to each other. It is a fundamental yet under-explored topic which Robert Adam navigates with authority, drawing not only on his profound knowledge of the history of architecture but on sources from the fields of philosophy and physics. While the author is renowned as an architect working in the classical tradition, his lucidly stated argument transcends questions.”
The book is published by Cambridge Scholars Publishing and a hardback costs £34.99
Robert Adam strictly maintains government guidance on social distancing. The internet and telephone, however, make remote consultation easy. Documents can be received, sites can viewed on Google Earth, meetings can be held on Skype or Zoom (and of course the old-fashioned telephone), letters can be sent, sketches scanned and assistance for more complex drafting work obtained.
Robert Adam launches the new firm on April 6th. His new headquarters are his home and also the place of his family’s lockdown, following government recommendations, so he is available on Skype and the phone every day and looks forward to hearing from you. Robert Adam Architectural Consultancy will give him a platform for independent work and will allow him to pursue his design interests alongside his academic and publishing work. “I intend to make the most of over 50 years of experience and I look forward to working without the burdens of a large practice but still able to call on their support should I want it. I can carry on with the design work that has always been at the centre of my life, offer my consultancy services, while spending time on charitable activities, academic research and writing.”