Showpiece City
How Architecture Made Dubai
Book • 2020
Showpiece City: How Architecture Made Dubai, by Todd Reisz, offers a critical historical analysis of Dubai's remarkable urban transformation.
The book meticulously examines the role of architecture, master planning, and international expertise in shaping Dubai's modern image, particularly between the 1950s and 1970s.
Reisz challenges simplistic narratives by revealing the city's development as a carefully orchestrated project, driven by strategic goals of projecting modernity, power, and cosmopolitanism.
He highlights the often-overlooked labor and contributions of numerous individuals involved in this ambitious undertaking.
The book ultimately provides a nuanced understanding of Dubai's complex history, moving beyond simplistic celebrations or dismissals.
The book meticulously examines the role of architecture, master planning, and international expertise in shaping Dubai's modern image, particularly between the 1950s and 1970s.
Reisz challenges simplistic narratives by revealing the city's development as a carefully orchestrated project, driven by strategic goals of projecting modernity, power, and cosmopolitanism.
He highlights the often-overlooked labor and contributions of numerous individuals involved in this ambitious undertaking.
The book ultimately provides a nuanced understanding of Dubai's complex history, moving beyond simplistic celebrations or dismissals.
Mentioned by
Mentioned in 0 episodes
Mentioned by Taha as a critical historical account of Dubai’s transformation into a global urban spectacle.
Todd Reisz, "Showpiece City: How Architecture Made Dubai" (Stanford UP, 2021)
Mentioned by Taha as a critical historical account of Dubai’s transformation into a global urban spectacle.
Todd Reisz, "Showpiece City: How Architecture Made Dubai" (Stanford UP, 2021)
