Peter Cook has been a pivotal figure within the architecture world for
over half a century. He first came to international renown in the 1960s
as a founder of the radical, experimental group Archigram, winners of
the 2002 RIBA Royal Gold Medal. He is also former Director of the
Institute of Contemporary Arts (ICA), London, and Emeritus Professor and
former Chair of the Bartlett School of Architecture (University College
London). Suffused with Peter's infectious energy, enthusiasm and charm,
this intriguing memoir explores major themes in architecture through the
lens of his life and work. Taking the reader on a journey through his
colourful and wide-ranging career, it touches on his early years and
architectural education, his relationships with key figures within the
architecture community and his work teaching and lecturing
internationally. It also provides an inside account of his leadership of
the Bartlett, for which he is frequently credited as a central figure in
rescuing the reputation of a once-ailing, now world-famous, school of
architecture. Featuring full-colour images of his most famous drawings,
including Archigram's 'Plug-in City', and built works, such as the
Kunsthaus Graz in Austria and the Vienna Economics and Business
University's Department of Law and Central Administration Buildings,
this book is a window into the life of one of architecture's most
celebrated rebels.
