J.J.P. Oud (1890-1963)

In line with my current obsession with Dutch modern architecture I would like to showcase a book about Jacobus Johannes Pieter Oud, among the eminent architects involved with De Stijl and rationalism in architecture in the Netherlands. In the 1920's and 1930's he was hailed by Philip Johnson as the most important architect in propagandising modern architectural principles, reflecting his importance during the formative years of modern architecture. The extensive monograph published by the publishing house of the National Architecture Institute of the Netherlands gives a profound insight into the development of J.J.P. Oud. It ranges from traditional beginnings influences by the work of Hendrik Petrus Berlage, forefather of the first Amsterdam School, to the highly functional designs he is mostly associated with. To me the book is the single most valuable publication dedicated to Oud's work as it includes countless drawings, sketches and photographs of almost all of his built and unbuilt work.