The Story of Modern Architecture - adult education class

Course overview

We invite you to join Dr David McKinstry each week to explore the story of modern architecture.

This course invites participants to explore the history and development of modern architecture, from its roots in the late nineteenth century to the innovations of the present day. The course considers how industrialisation, technology, politics, and cultural shifts shaped a radical new language of building.

Beginning with the architectural responses to the Industrial Revolution, we move through key movements including the Arts and Crafts, Art Nouveau, Bauhaus, and the International Style. We will examine the work and philosophies of important figures such as Frank Lloyd Wright, Adolf Loos, and Le Corbusier, and explore how their ideas influenced the modern world.

We will also consider popular and sometimes controversial architectural styles, including Art Deco, Brutalism, and Postmodernism, assessing their cultural impact and legacy.

Reading material or special equipment needed (if any)

There is no compulsory reading for this course.

Term dates

•  Autumn Term: week beginning 10 November 2025 until week ending 12 December 2025

•  Spring Term: week beginning 12 January 2026 until week ending 13 February 2026

Any questions?

If you have any questions about the content of this course please contact the tutor, Dr David McKinstry at dfmckinstry@gmail.com

If you have any questions about enrolment please contact the Imperial after:hours Administrator, Christian Jacobi at c.jacobi@imperial.ac.uk

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Class recordings

These classes are not recorded.

Imperial certificates

There are no examinations or assessments for this course. However, attendance can lead to the award of an Imperial attendance certificate (T&Cs apply).