From the back of the softcover edition:

“…a remarkable text. The calm, limpid intelligence with which Habraken carefully delineates the evolution of the classical as a rupture within the continuity of the vernacular ‘field’ and the way in which he relates all of this to the socio-economic forces of the time is truly exceptional for its economy and precision of insight.”
KENNETH FRAMPTON, Ware professor of Architecture, Columbia University Graduate School of Architecture, Planning and Preservation.

“The extraordinary insights of John Habraken are generated by the rigour and passion he has brought to his life-long quest for the deep-structure that underlies our habitat.”
CHARLES CORREA, Architect

“For many decades John Habraken has been gently but firmly tugging and pushing architects to design a more human – and culture – centric built environment, but never more reasonably and persuasively than in this aptly-titled masterpiece.”
DOUG G. KELBAUGH, Dean and Professor of Architecture and Urban Planning, University of Michigan,
A. Alfred Taubman College of Architecture & Urban Planning.

**
Based on many years of personal observation, Habraken’s important new book critically examines the role of the architect as a professional descendent of Palladio, and as an heir to his architectural legacy. Seven innovative and carefully crafted essays explore the widening ideological schism between today’s architects whose core values, identity and education remain rooted in the Renaissance legacy of creating artful ‘masterpieces’ and the practical demands on a profession which acts within an evolving, ubiquitous and autonomous built environment or ‘field’.

Clearly written yet expressing complex evolving ideas, this extended argument opens a new forum of debate across design theory, professional practice and academic issues. Moving the subject on from a historical perspective, Habraken shows how architects are increasingly involved in the design of everyday buildings. This must lead to a reassessment of aarchitect’s identities, values and education, and the contribution of the architect in the shaping of the built environment.

Taylor & Francis  Printed in Great Britain  ISBN 0-415-35791-8