The Turning Point of Building : Structure and Design

27 x 24cm. Hardcover with dustjacket, 239pp. Discreetly ex-private library with architect's stamp on front pastedown under the jacket flap. Spine slightly rolled. The dustjacket is chipped with some loss and closed tears, protected in archival sleeve. From the dustjacket: "This is not merely a book on building; it is an intellectual approach to the problems that humanity must face in a world confused by ever-increasing technological influences. Possessing a universal outlook and the mind of an ingenious thinker, Konrad Wachsmann makes one understand that new circumstances need new solutions. His great idea culminates in the conviction that technological development leads to new aesthetics 'thru science and technology'. Konrad Wachsmann states that in discarding many of our old ideas about building, we have now reached a turning point. We must not merely use, we must be in control of the rapidly expanding potentials of our machines and our industrialised technology. Only so, can we satisfy the ever growing needs of humanity, both quantitatively and qualitatively. The book consists of three closely connected parts. In the first, Konrad Wachsmann describes the decisive influence of the nineteenth century industrial revolution and scientific discoveries on the concept of building. Among the outstanding achievements he brings back to the reader are the Crystal Palace, the Brooklyn Bridge, the creative contributions of Alexander Graham Bell, and the great work of the Chicago School. In the second part the author proves the principles that determine the modern dynamic building. He examines the mechanism of ma- chine-tools, considering them the only possible starting point of all industrialised implements and the true workman of our time. In the final section, Konrad Wachsmann describes his first example of industrialised building and some of his research projects in the field, which were developed at the Institute of Design, Chicago, for Government agencies. Then he touches on the meaning of teamwork and shows studies and results executed at various universities in the United States and abroad. As an outgrowth of new conditions, he analyses the necessity of re- examining methods of study and teaching. He concludes his thoughts with his credo based on facts of the present and a profound outlook into the future. This significant book written by a man who combines the independent and unprejudiced mind with the skill of the experienced master builder will provide a new understanding for the intellectual and point out new roads to the architect." Good condition.…