Why is British Architecture so Lousy?

London : Newman Communications, 1980. 1st Edition . Soft cover. Very Good/Good. First edition. Paperback in wrapper. 24.5 × 18cm, 206pp. "Why is British architecture so lousy?" is a fictional quotation, but the charge it makes is certainly real. In a country whose architectural heritage is as great as anywhere in the world, typical public relations to Britain's contemporary architecture dwell on its mediocrity, insensitivity, cost and sameness. Clearly Britain has an architecture where self-congratulation is normal among the makers, but discontent widespread among the ungrateful users. To face the uncomfortable implications of this book's title, some of those centrally concerned with architecture express themselves - often, but not always, in agreement. An introduction by architecture school head Nathan Silver poses the question and suggests places to look for answers. In four sections (because of the architects / because of the planners / because of the press / because of the public), and followed by a critical conclusion, eminent contributors like architect Richard Rogers, planner Ian Lacey, journalists Alan Brien and Simon Jenkins, clients Kenneth Knight and Courtenay Blackmore, and critic Charles Jencks talk about contemporary British architecture with refreshing boldness. Their outspoken views make this book unique - an invaluable document for anyone concerned with architecture up to now, and in the '80s. Condition: The book itself is in very good condition, with clean pages and secure binding, though there is a little tanning to the pages' top edge. The wrapper is marked and tanned but acceptable.