Complexity and Contradiction in Architecture

Complexity and Contradiction in Architecture, written by Robert Venturi, is one of the first sources to synthesize and articulate what was wrong with modern architecture, where the reactions came from, and how architectural solutions could address these problems. This fundamental book on postmodern architectural theory explores the forgotten symbolism of architectural form.

The book, published by Şevki Vanlı Architecture Foundation Publications, was translated by Serpil Merzi Özaloğlu.

From Professor Doğan Kuban's very detailed foreword:

"The spirit dominating Venturi's book is explained by this paragraph: 'Architects should not remain silent in the face of the rigid ceremonialism of the conventional modern architectural language. I prefer complexity over purity, compromise over simplicity, distortion over correctness, ambiguity over clarity, perversity and impersonality, boredom and interest, the ordinary over the well-designed, the inviting over the exclusive, the well-cooked over the simple, the reminiscent of the old but also innovative, and inconsistent and ambiguous architectural elements over the clear and definite. I prefer a complex vitality over a clear unity. I proclaim discontinuity and contradiction.' This is a manifesto of rebellion. However, it is not a novelty for the art scene of the 1950s and 60s. Rather, it is the presentation of ideas from the plastic arts to the architectural environment with a theoretical guise. ..... In an interview seven years after the initial publication of his book, after his ideas had been thoroughly discussed, Venturi summarized his main views as follows: 'I am concerned more with architectural images and content than with the building process. Although fundamentally I am more concerned with practice than theory. But since it's not my job, I've talked a lot. Unlike other architects, I look at the environment without prejudice. I don't start by trying to fix it. The slogan 'Main Street is almost all right' was more about conveying an attitude. We don't say 'ugly,' we say 'ordinary.' We don't want megastructures, skyscrapers, and monuments. We want our buildings to fit into their environment...'"

WHO IS ROBERT VENTURI?

Robert Venturi, director of the Venturi, Scott Brown and Associates architectural firm, has also been a faculty member and engaged in theoretical work alongside his extensive and remarkable practical output. In addition to Complexity and Contradiction in Architecture, his works include Learning from Las Vegas: The Forgotten Symbolism of Architectural Form (with Denise Scott Brown and Steven Izenour) and A View from the Campidoglio: Selected Essays, 1953-1984 (also known as Mother's House).