Patterns of Explaining Contemporary Architecture in 12 Books on Architectural History

Abstract

This study seeks to identify the common analytical patterns and contextual frameworks employed in constructing narratives of architecture. Using a comparative analytical method, twelve influential books in the history of contemporary architecture were examined. The analysis was structured around three main criteria: approaches to history, contextual frameworks, and patterns of physical analysis. For each book, the content, structure, and analytical methods were studied, and the common patterns as well as differences were identified. The analyses revealed that the approaches used in the examined books can be divided into four main categories: analytical, descriptive, design-oriented, and historical. The identified contextual frameworks included cultural, historical, social, economic, technological, natural, formal, philosophical, and political dimensions. The physical analysis patterns included spatial analysis, aesthetic analysis, structural analysis, and climatic considerations. The emphasis on each of these dimensions varies across different books, and these variations influence the interpretation of architectural works. Ultimately, the books were classified into four main categories based on methodological approaches: (1) design-oriented books, such as The Story of Architecture, which emphasize the practical and creative aspects of architectural design; (2) historically and analytically oriented books, such as Theories of Modern Architecture, which explore the historical roots and theoretical foundations of architecture; (3) books with a combined approach, such as History of Architecture Based on a Comparative Method, which were categorized under comprehensive studies and employ multiple approaches—analytical, descriptive, design-oriented, and historical; and (4) books focused on modern architecture, such as History of Modern Architecture, which concentrate on the modern period or specific subjects like postmodernism and are suitable for readers interested in these eras. This classification helps readers choose suitable books based on their needs and interests, whether they seek comprehensive studies, historical analyses, practical knowledge, or focus on a specific period. The study demonstrates that the historiography of contemporary architecture is moving toward multifaceted and interdisciplinary approaches. The diversity in approaches and analytical frameworks enables a deeper and more comprehensive understanding of contemporary architecture. The findings of this study may be applied to improve teaching methods and develop curricular materials in the field of architectural history. It is recommended that future research examine the impact of these diverse approaches on students’ understanding of architectural history. The main limitation of this research was its focus on a limited number of architectural history books, which can be addressed in future studies by expanding the range of sources under review.