ABSTRACT
This book explores Louis I. Kahn's approach to tradition as revealed in two of his important, unbuilt, projects. Focusing on Kahn's designs for the Dominican Motherhouse of St. Catherine de Ricci, Media, Pennsylvania (1965-1969), and the Hurva Synagogue, Jerusalem, Israel (1967-1974), the book challenges prevailing aesthetic and methodological assessments of Kahn's use of tradition. It reveals how an authentic and critical theoretical-historical and humanistic study of tradition nourished Kahn's designs, enabling him to mediate historical rituals, ideas and beliefs – and to develop innovative designs rooted deep in human culture while addressing real modern concerns. The book evaluates Kahn's works as a creative recreation and re-interpretation of the past, shedding light on the potential value of the meaningful consideration of tradition in modern times.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
section I|27 pages
Kahn’s Philosophy
part |25 pages
Introduction
section II|164 pages
Kahn’s Designs
part I|77 pages
The Dominican Motherhouse of St. Catherine de Ricci, Media, Pennsylvania, 1965–1969
part 2|85 pages
The Hurva Synagogue, The Old City of Jerusalem, 1967–1974
section III|17 pages
Learning from Kahn
part |15 pages
Conclusion