This fascinating work explains how the Centre Georges Pompidou - with its resolutely contemporary architecture - is so successfully situated within one of the oldest quarters of the city.

Historical documents evoke the past atmosphere of the Beaubourg quarter while photographs of the building itself detail its architecture and demonstrate the principles underlying its design. The transparent structure - open to the city - was constructed to encompass all the elements of contemporary design, and embraces the connections between design, architecture, dance, and music. This book recounts how this remarkable structure took form, tracing the events that mark the artistic life of this building.

On January 1, 2000, after more than two years of work, the Centre opened with newly remodeled spaces. This book is a celebration of the spirit of this place, one of the most popular cultural spaces in the world.