Rethinking modernism for the developing world

the complete architecture of Balkrishna Doshi

de James Steele

India is a nation with a rich, sophisticated culture, but also a country undergoing rapid modernization. In this dynamic context, the architecture of Balkrishna Doshi deploys the strengths of tradition and modernism in a powerful combination, infusing bold new forms with an intricate social, historical, and cultural awareness. Doshi's concern for order, climatic responsiveness, materials, and cultural expression is primary; James Steele examines the full and extraordinary range of his ideas, which encompasses ancient Hindu geometry, contemporary town planning, village typologies, modular standardization, mysticism, and myth. Photographs, plans, and drawings by the architect illustrate informed commentaries on Doshi's most notable projects to date. Some texts by Doshi, written to accompany his original concepts, are published here for the first time. With a comprehensive illustrated chronology of all his work, this study is indispensable not only for anyone with an overall interest in contemporary architecture but also for those who have a particular concern for the evolution of traditional forms within a context of humane values.