Frédéric Edelmann Knihy

The book presents a comprehensive exploration of urban China, detailing its rapid development throughout the 20th century and significant changes in the last decade, focusing on eight contemporary cities, including Beijing and Shanghai. It also highlights the innovative work of a new generation of Chinese architects through over 40 notable projects from 2003 to 2008, set against the influence of internationally renowned figures in architecture. This limited edition offers a unique insight into the evolution of urban design and architecture in China.

"This book presents over 40 finished works by Chinese architects, produced between 2003 and 2008. A compelling selection representing a new generation of architects in a country whose building rhythm over the last decade has been unstoppable, as China's architects are making their mark within the backdrop of an avalanche of world class architecture stars." "Featuring works by China Architecture Design & Research Group, Jiakun Architects, Atelier Deshaus, Mada s.p.a.m, MAD, TM Studio, Urbanus, Studio Pei-Zhu, Amateur Architecture Studio, Atelier Feichang Jianzhu, Atelier Z+, Standardarchitecture and Architectural Design & Research Institute Nanjing University."--BOOK JACKET.

Beijing hosts the summer 2008 Olympic Games, followed by the 2010 Universal Exposition in Shanghai. These two cities have undergone an architectonic and urban metamorphosis without precedent for dimension or speed; a movement which has transformed the whole of China and has deeply affected the lives of hundreds of millions of people. This book presents keys for understanding a phenomenon often blurred by touristic portrayals and issues of economic restlessness. Divided in two parts, the book first illustrates the history of urban China, from its acceleration over the 20th century to its metamorphosis over the last decade. It then explores 8 diverse megalopolises including popular Shanghai and Beijing, famous Suzhou and Xi an, the unknown conurbian between Canton and Shenzhen on the Pearl River, and the emerging Chongqin with the gigantic three Gorges Dam Project.