Los Angeles Architecture The Contemporary Condition

The architecture of Los Angeles seems at first sight to be chaotic,ndividualism being its only rationale. This work looks beneath the surfaceo find out why the city's architectural scene is so fascinating. It provides survey of Los Angeles' most provocative buildings and landmarks, and anrchitectural analysis of the entire period of the city's development.eginning with the pioneering characters of the American Arts and Craftsovement, including the Greene brothers, it traces the city's architecturalevelopment through the works of Frank Lloyd Wright and Rudolph Schindler tohe buildings of Frank Gehry and the architecture of the avant-garde.;Theook considers the historical and geographical elements which are anmportant part of local sensibilities, weaving them into a narrative abouthe complex design activity taking place in the city today.

James Steele is Associate Professor of Architecture at the University of Southern California, Los Angeles. His books include Architecture Today,Pierre Koenig and Queen Mary, all published by Phaidon.