Edward Durell Stone: A Son’s Untold Story of a Legendary Architect

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Hicks Stone

Rizzoli International Publications, New York, 2011, English

Nonfiction, Architecture

10 x 10 inches, hardcover, 304 pages, 250 illustrations

ISBN: 9780847835683

Suggested Retail Price: $85.00

From the Publisher. A personal and authoritative biography of one of the most controversial figures of twentieth-century architecture, written by the architect’s son. Architect Edward Durell Stone was both celebrated and scorned, and led a life that was both triumphant and embittered. Among the iconic projects for which Stone is responsible are The Museum of Modern Art in New York, the U.S. Embassy in New Delhi, and the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts in Washington, D.C. Author Hicks Stone, Edward Durell Stone’s son, not only addresses a body of work that has been largely neglected if not outright misunderstood but also explores a complex, multidimensional, and often turbulent life.

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Paul Makovsky

On Paul Makovsky’s Notable Books of 2011 list

During their lifetimes, both Ed Stone and Eero Saarinen graced the covers of Time magazine. History has treated Eero Saarinen well, with a number of traveling exhibitions and books appearing in recent years; Ed Stone less so. This monograph, written by Stone’s son, offers a personal and authoritative biography of this misunderstood architect who was celebrated in the mainstream press but often ridiculed in the architectural community. Hicks Stone not only details his father’s achievements but also writes honestly about the architect’s career, relationships, and struggles with alcohol. Stone had an unorthodox view of modern architecture, experimenting with decorative patterned screening and integrating the natural landscape with architecture, and was critical of the effects of automobile culture—all very topical today. Let’s hope he finally gets his due.

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