In architecture, looking back is a prerequisite to looking forward. Inspired and competent design has to be informed by a knowledge and understanding of earlier design and technology. For no one is this truism more applicable than Jan Kaplicky of Future Systems. Future Systems is well known for its futuristic work, including the highly acclaimed Media Centre at Lord's, as well as the soon-to-be-built Selfridges department store in Birmingham. It is Kaplicky's delight and enthusiasm for 20th-century design and architecture, which have helped feed his appetite for innovative design solutions and exploring new technologies. In Looking Back in Envy, Kaplicky invites ten key architects, artists, designers and engineers of our time to choose their favourite work of the previous century.

Ron Arad

Klaus Bode

Borge Boeskov

Brian Clarke

Peter Cook

Kathryn Gustafson

Zaha Hadid

Tony Hunt

Anish Kapoor

Ivan Margolius