Description
Book Synopsis: A two-time Pulitzer finalist explores the story of American urban design through San Francisco’s iconic Ferry Building. Conceived in the Gilded Age, the Ferry Building opened in 1898 as San Francisco’s portal to the world—the terminus of the transcontinental railway and a showcase of civic ambition. In silent films and World’s Fair postcards, nothing said “San Francisco” more than its soaring clocktower.
But as acclaimed architectural critic John King recounts in Portal, the rise of the automobile and double-deck freeways severed the city from its beloved structure and its waterfront—a connection that required generations to restore. King’s narrative spans the rise and fall and rebirth of the Ferry Building. Rich with feats of engineering and civic imagination, his story introduces colorful figures who fought to preserve the Ferry Building’s character (and the city’s soul)—from architect Arthur Page Brown and legendary columnist Herb Caen to poet Lawrence Ferlinghetti and Senator Dianne Feinstein.
In King’s hands, the saga of the Ferry Building is a microcosm of a larger evolution along the waterfronts of cities everywhere. Portal traces the damage inflicted on historic neighborhoods and working dockyards by cars, highways, and top-down planning and “urban renewal.” But when an earthquake destroyed the Embarcadero Freeway, city residents seized the chance to reclaim their connection to the bay. Transporting readers across 125 years of history, this tour de force explores the tensions impacting urban infrastructure and public spaces, among them tourism, deindustrialization, development, and globalization. Portal culminates with a rich portrait of San Francisco’s vibrant esplanade today, visited by millions, even as sea level rise and earthquakes threaten a landmark that remains as vital as ever.
A book for city lovers and visitors, architecture fans and pedestrians, Portal is essential reading for anyone interested in the history of San Francisco and the future of American cities. 50 black-and-white illustrations
Details
Step into the world of American urban design and explore the iconic San Francisco Ferry Building with Portal: San Francisco's Ferry Building and the Reinvention of American Cities. Embark on a journey through history as two-time Pulitzer finalist, John King, delves into the story of this architectural masterpiece that has played a pivotal role in the city's evolution. Discover the rich narrative that spans over a century and highlights the efforts to restore the connection between the city and its beloved waterfront. A must-read for architecture enthusiasts and history buffs alike!
Dive into the fascinating tale of the Ferry Building's rise, fall, and ultimate rebirth in Portal. Learn about the colorful characters who played a crucial role in preserving the building's character and significance in the fabric of San Francisco's soul. From architectural visionaries to iconic personalities, King's narrative weaves together a story of resilience, imagination, and the enduring spirit of urban revitalization. Explore the larger evolution of waterfronts in cities across America and the challenges faced in preserving historic landmarks amidst the forces of progress and development.
Transport yourself through time and space with Portal as you journey across 125 years of history, witnessing the transformations that have shaped urban infrastructure and public spaces. Gain insights into the complex interplay of factors such as tourism, deindustrialization, and globalization that have influenced the development of cities. As you explore the dynamic landscape of San Francisco's waterfront, you'll be captivated by the vibrant esplanade that stands as a testament to the resilience and adaptability of urban spaces in the face of challenges. A captivating read for city enthusiasts and those passionate about the past, present, and future of urban landscapes!
Ready to immerse yourself in the fascinating history of the San Francisco Ferry Building and explore the evolution of American cities? Grab your copy of Portal now and embark on a journey through time, architecture, and urban revitalization. Experience the power of community, innovation, and preservation as you uncover the story behind this iconic landmark that continues to inspire and captivate visitors from around the world. Join us on this enlightening exploration of San Francisco's past and the potential of its future!
Discover More Best Sellers in Architecture
Shop Architecture
A Year in the French Style: Interiors & Entertaining by Antoinette Poisson
$40.86
Architecture - A Year in the French Style: Interiors & Entertaining by Antoinette Poisson
Remarkable Golf Courses: An illustrated guide to the world’s most stunning golf courses
$32.37
Architecture - Remarkable Golf Courses: An illustrated guide to the world’s most stunning golf courses
Design Remix: A New Spin on Traditional Rooms
$40.83
Architecture - Design Remix: A New Spin on Traditional Rooms
Walkable City: How Downtown Can Save America, One Step at a Time
$17.35
Architecture - Walkable City: How Downtown Can Save America, One Step at a Time
Bibliostyle: How We Live at Home with Books
$12.08
Architecture - Bibliostyle: How We Live at Home with Books
A Place to Call Home: Timeless Southern Charm
$14.99
Architecture - A Place to Call Home: Timeless Southern Charm
