Mutations

The rapid pace of urbanization stands as a prominent challenge of our era. In a world reshaped by interconnected communication networks and the gradual dissolution of borders driven by economic forces, “Mutations” delves into the profound transformations brought about by the acceleration of these processes on our environment and the evolving role of architecture within this context.

Opening with charts and statistics outlining global urbanization trends and accompanied by a series of essays dissecting the nature of changes occurring in our cities and economies, the book adopts the format of a richly illustrated atlas and survey of contemporary urban landscapes.

Highlighted within its pages is the Pearl River Delta in southeast Asia, a testament to the rapid urbanization of once rural areas, exemplifying the significant role of traditional infrastructures in this transformative process. Meanwhile, Europe is depicted as undergoing a shift away from traditional urban models towards a new configuration of cities, reflecting the evolving states emerging from them. The exploration extends to American cities, where the concept of infrastructure and the forces shaping urbanization are reevaluated.

A study of Lagos offers insights into new manifestations of globalized modernity, potentially foreshadowing trends that may emerge elsewhere. Through these diverse perspectives, “Mutations” provides a multifaceted examination of the complex interplay between urbanization, architecture, and societal change in our contemporary world.