The architecture of the “postwar modern period” (1945+) has been a controversial subject among architecture experts for years. In times when concepts for “reconstructing the European city” have become established, even outstanding postwar modernist buildings are criticised. In addition to this, our mental reservations and insufficient maintenance of buildings often prevents us from seeing the architectonic and urban planning quality of this “repressed” era of postwar rebuilding. The book Nachkriegsmoderne kontrovers discusses the quality and possible worth for protection of this architecture. The authors—all experts in the theory and practice of architecture, construction engineering sciences and listed structure preservation—offer the reader their insights into the current architectural discussion and tension between protecting existing buildings and creative expansion. At the same time, the book explores the possibilities for renovating postwar modernist architecture in Germany and the contribution it can make to cities’ identities.

Cover: Heinrich Heidersberger, Institute Heidersberger, www.heidersberger.de