Undiscovered Scotland

 

"Art Deco Scotland: Design and Architecture in the Jazz Age" by Bruce Peter is a book that can be perfectly encapsulated by a single word description: WOW! The capital letters and exclamation mark are necessary to help convey the true sense of its impact. This is a magnificent book that excels in every way.

They say you shouldn't judge a book by its cover, but from the moment you touch the beautifully designed and silky smooth exterior of this one, you know it's something really special. The promise of the cover is amply justified by what you find within. "Art Deco Scotland" is very well written and extensively and beautifully illustrated, making it a joy to read or simply browse. But more than all of this, what impresses me most about the book is the sense of the depth of research that underpins it. Even without the badge of authority that comes with its publication by Historic Environment Scotland, it's pretty obvious that this is the definitive guide to Art Deco in Scotland: and it's hard to see how it could ever be bettered.

The publisher's description gives a good idea of what the book includes: "A stunning visual journey through Scotland’s Art Deco heritage. Step into the glamour and energy of the Art Deco era with this beautifully illustrated guide to Scotland’s most iconic Art Deco architecture and design. Emerging in the 1920s from the stylish metropolises of Paris and New York, Art Deco quickly made its mark around the world, including in Scotland, where it transformed buildings, interiors and public spaces with its bold geometric lines and luxurious aesthetic. Art Deco in Scotland takes readers on a captivating tour of the country’s finest Art Deco landmarks, from the striking Beresford Hotel and the glamorous Portobello Lido to the grand Tower of Empire in Glasgow and the Clyde-built Queen Mary."

It continues: "Featuring breathtaking photography and stunning archival illustrations from Historic Environment Scotland, this elegant hardback edition offers a fascinating glimpse into Scotland’s architectural past. Perfect for lovers of Scottish history, architecture enthusiasts, and Art Deco admirers alike, this book is a must-have addition to any collection."