XClose

UCL Urban Laboratory

Home
Menu

Matthew Gandy wins 2014 Meridian Book Award for 'innovative' The Fabric of Space

20 March 2015

Matthew Gandy, Professor of Geography and former Director of the UCL Urban Laboratory (2005-11), has been awarded the 2014 AAG Meridian Book Award for Outstanding Scholarly Work in Geography for his book The Fabric of Space: Water, Modernity, and the Urban Imagination.

The fabric of space by Matthew Gandy

This coveted distinction recognises one outstanding book published each year that makes an unusually important contribution to advancing the science and art of geography.

 

The Association of American Geographers (AAG) described the work as 'an innovative, fresh contribution with extensive scope and conceptual depth. It is case based with water as its connecting theme to illustrate the evolution of modern urban spaces.

'He draws upon many sources including poetry, film, and art to enhance our understanding of the city. Written in an engaging and accessible way this book is an outstanding contribution to the discipline. This exceptional scholarly work truly advances the art and science of the discipline.'

The Fabric of Space (MIT Press, 2014) considers the cultural and material significance of water through the experiences of six cities: Paris, Berlin, Lagos, Mumbai, Los Angeles, and London. Tracing the evolving relationships among modernity, nature, and the urban imagination, from different vantage points and through different periods.

You can listen to a recent interview with Matthew below in a podcast from the Urban Theroy Lab.