Modern Buildings in London

‘This book is something of a ‘ghost gazetteer’, but it’s not only a period curiosity, and manages to speak more broadly to the art of criticism itself as well as displaying Nairn’s idiosyncratic knack of recognizing sheep and goats in London’s post 1930s re-fit.’

'A timely reminder of both the changing nature of aesthetics, how buildings shape a neighbourhood while also being a reflection of the wants and needs and vision of the future purveyed at the time.'

'Like many Oldie readers, I have an in-built prejudice against modern architecture . . . Now I've read the [Modern Buildings in London], my cycle routes around London town have been greatly enriched. I now notice modern buildings and realise that some are great.'

'In an act of enlightenment, Notting Hill Editions recently republished Ian Nairn’s Modern Buildings in London.'

‘This zesty guidebook, first published in 1964 for London Transport, is the latest Ian Nairn classic to be given a hardback makeover by Notting Hill Editions . . . For someone who already owns one those vintage copies, the joy of this new edition – following in the footsteps of Nairn’s Towns and Nairn’s Paris – comes from writer and cultural commentator Travis Elborough’s informative and entertaining foreword . . . This book makes both a fascinating gazetteer and nostalgia trip.’

‘[An] utterly joyful book... Nairn’s descriptive writing is delicious and at times hilarious... Suffice it to say that after an extraordinary 60 years, Nairn’s passion for modern buildings in London has barely aged, and is a totally charming and informative narrative that entices you back to enjoy, all over again, your favourite MoMo buildings in London.’

'Repackaged as an elegant pocket hardback, and with an erudite introduction from Travis Elborough, this is a curious collection for the intrepid traveller.'