Building a Revolution

Since China’s modernization began in 1980, the country has witnessed exponential growth in construction activities. In a deliberate attempt to break away from the past, China has shown remarkable drive and determination to refashion itself in terms of architectural and town planning practices. While there are many books about traditional Chinese architecture and gardens, this is perhaps the first book in English to introduce the dramatic new look of China.

Building a Revolution: Chinese Architecture Since 1980 presents a picture of Chinese architecture in transition, as the entire economy shifted from being planned and state-controlled to being market-led. The book also examines the “national form” and Chinese identity, the impact of international architecture, housing reform, and the emergence of architects in private practice. Both celebrated and young Chinese architects are portrayed, and the notable buildings in the prosperous coastal cities are highlighted. Through this book on modern Chinese architecture, the reader will appreciate the influence of globalization and modernization on the most populous country in the world.

Dr. Charlie Q. L. Xue has involved in architectural design and education in China and the USA for the past quarter of century. He is the author of Building Practice in China (1999), Contemplating on Architecture (2001), The Global Impact: Overseas Architectural Design in China (2007), and more than 100 academic papers in the world. He is also a newspaper columnist on urban architecture. Dr. Xue is a fellow of Architectural Society of China (ASC), and a member of Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB) and Chartered Institute of Architectural Technologists (CIAT). He now teaches at City University of Hong Kong.

“This book will be greatly useful for many Asian architects seeking to position themselves in a competitive global community of architects, while seeking to develop their own independent architecture, without having the need to derive a national architecture foisted upon them unnecessarily by some of the architects from the Western world.” —Dr. Ken Yeang, Malaysia

“This most interesting and informative book will be widely welcomed as there is little available in the English press on the new architecture of China. The original research is commendable and the text and illustrations provide an authoritative reference on the subject.” —Professor Jennifer Taylor, Australia

“A rare and comprehensive historical analysis of contemporary Chinese architecture written in English. Native architect, Charlie Xue, who has witnessed first-hand the revolutionary developments in Chinese architecture over the past 25 years, presents a detailed and engaging account of the country’s emerging architectural landscape.” —Professor Kengo Kuma, Japan