Modern Architecture

""Livesey tackles subjects such as the Bauhaus, Russian Constructivism and Postmodernism, in texts that are laudable in offering a rapid fire of architects, buildings and centres of influence. Collectively, this forms a holistic understanding of how our profession has evolved from Monticello to Canada’s Truth and Reconciliation Commission… The many short references and sources supplied by Livesey offer thousands of little breadcrumbs as he revisits—and indeed corrects—the many subjects and periods discussed, such as dedicating overdue attention to the many women whose history was forgotten or subjugated by white men. This book recognizes the contributions of Black architects and the innovation and brilliance that emerged from countries like India, Malaysia, China, and Africa over the past 250 years. It also provides insightful connections to politics, technology, landscape architecture, and design that help contextualize the evolution of modern architecture. The work of practicing architects is supported by this volume, too. Including discussions of notable academics focussing on socialism, phenomenology, poststructuralism, and the effects of colonialism helps us understand the trajectory of thought that defined several generations of architects."" - Ian Chodikoff. Review of the book Modern Architecture: The Basics, by G Livesey. Canadian Architect magazine, April 2025 issue, p48.