Reviews (2)

the most beautiful book in the world
Really. The listing here doesn't do this 2 volume set justice. If you have any interest at all, don't hesitate, this is the most beautiful thing ever!

how
both books are wonderful!!!!!! it's a mix between travel & interiors. another taschen-you-must-have-it !!!!! ... Read more

Book Description

The Alhambra inspires and enchants like no other site.With its fascination history; its romantic locale overlooking Granada, against the backdrop of the Sierra Nevada mountains; its intricately decorated rooms; its numerous courtyards and fountains; the palace city of the Alhambra is endlessly alluring and has captivated the imagination of visitors since it was conceived in the thirteenth century.

By 720 AD, most of Spain was under Islamic rule.Formerly a minor settlement, Granada now thrived: the town was reconstructed as an Islamic city, with a medina and a fortress, and, in the early eleventh century, the residents of the nearby town of Elvisra were relocated to this more strategically-situated and temperate locale.A military fortification had existed at the top of the hill overlooking Granada since the ninth century and this site, know as the "Alhambra", expanded as the city developed.

The palace city was mapped out by the founder of the Nasrid dynasty, Ibn Nasr, in 1238 and largely constructed in the fourteenth century by his descendents Yusuf I (1333-1354) and Muhammed V (1354-1391).They built the main structures, known as the Nasrid palaces, which captivate throngs of tourists to this day.In subsequent centuries, other palaces were added-like that of the palace of the Catholic Charles V, whose pioneering building startled locals with its Renaissance style.Today the Alhambra is a fascinating amalgam of style, both Moorish and European, with labyrinthine hallways, numerous fountains, pools, and courtyards, stunning details, and breathtaking views.

In Alhambra, author Michael Jacobs details the history of this spectacular monument-the stories of the ruling families who lived in the palaces, the capturing and recapturing of this region in Spain, and the myths that surround the Alhambra.Evocative photographs by Francisco Fernandez lead readers on a virtual journey through the various palaces, government and military buildings, mosques, baths, courtyards, and beautiful gardens that make up this mythical place. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

A Masterpiece!
This magnificently photographed volume offers the reader a wonderful insight into one of the most beautiful edifices in the world. This oversized book stunningly recreates the splendor of Grenada. A treasure for any who have visited the Alhambra. ... Read more

Book Description

Many think that sub-Saharan African architecture is little more than mud huts. Mud, yes - but certainly not huts. Instead, these adobe buildings, many of them enormous, show sublime sculptural beauty, variety, ingenuity, and originality. In the Sahal region of western Africa - Mali, Niger, Nigeria, Togo, Benin, Ghana, and Burkina Faso - people have been constructing earthen buildings for centuries. But they remain unknown to most of the Western world. Their plastic forms - from simple stairways, to ornamented domes, to complex arches - are highlighted by subtle painting and intricate grillwork. James Morris spent four months photographing these hidden jewels, from the great mosque at Djenne - the largest mud building in the world - to small houses in remote animist communities. Butabu shows these works as both aesthetic treasures and as architecture with contemporary relevance. These are no museum pieces, but rather buildings that continue to be maintained and built, even as they are threatened by the uncertainties of weather and the encroachment of Western technology. Text by Suzanne Preston Blier covers the history of earthen architecture, the technology that creates it, and the symbolism of its form. ... Read more

Reviews (2)

Reality-warping done humbly and well. Thank you Mr. Morris.
Stunning. After picture book after picture book on 20th century architecture, this book rocketed me out of the modern Western world and deposited me gently within the expressive caress of this timeless adobe architecture of africa. This is a sort of architecture I have NEVER seen in books before. A genuine addition to the vernacular of modern architecture and possibly, a firefly of inspiration for those of us living in empty hard, static and meaningless shells. How to bring the heart and handiwork back into the technological universe?

Butabu: Adobe Architecture of West Africa
The soft folds and highly textured surfaces of Mali mosques, Niger chiefs' houses and other examples of the African adobe vernacular have lured a succession of hippies with a wobbly sense of focus. So it's a delight to see a photographer who has chronicled the sharp-edged structures of Norman Foster and Richard Rogers bring clarity to such a picturesque subject, and to read such an illuminating essay on its cultural roots. (Michael Webb is the book reviewer for LA Architect magazine.) ... Read more

Amazon.com

Brimming over with vibrant photography and inspiring projects, African Style sheds light on traditional textiles, colors, and materials used in a variety of African cultures and ways of adapting them to modern living. From the basic importance of paint to the fine details of accessories, author Sharne Algotsson (Spirit of African Design) and photographer George Ross have brought together a fabulous blend of creative inspiration, geographical and historical information, and easy projects that will have readers itching to add new style to their homes.

Algottson's suggestion of creating a color board when creating a new look for a room is invaluable. With a simple 11 x 17 sheet of art board, you can combine color chips and fabric scraps to achieve just the right look before making the more permanent commitment of painting the walls and buying new window coverings. Detailed explanations of color--indigo, orange, deep brown, red--will have you ready to take some risks and use those flamboyant shades in your home, while at the same time educate you on the cultural meanings behind some colors. Accompanying all these unique ideas and fascinating information are some truly stunning photographs captured with a playful eye. Ross uses a variety of unusual angles and lighting in his work that capture these glorious interiors in a fresh manner that will encourage you to beautify everything from the walls of your bedroom to the legs of your creaky old footstool. Patterns from Zulu baskets, Ewe cloth, Ashanti Adinkra symbols, and Asoke textiles are used with flair in every corner. Specific suggestions are included for recovering seat cushions, painting small pieces of furniture, and upholstering a headboard--all surprisingly simple projects that require little more than a paintbrush, a staple gun, and an artistic vision. --Jill Lightner ... Read more

Reviews (7)

Fresh, lively ideas for creating beautiful living spaces
I love this book and have already re-done my bedroom and study "African style". I bought this with "Spirit of African Design" and together they have given me new ideas on how to use color, fabric and paint to create beautiful living spaces. I had gotten so bored with the standard decorating ideas, and this has opened a whole new world to me. I cannot wait to do more!

African adaptability
I purchased African Style hoping it would help me decorate my Master Bathroom in an African theme. Although there is not a decorated bathroom in this book, that didn't matter. I was able to adapt all of the elements I admired into this room. Therefore , I find the book to be highly adaptable for any room in anyone's home.

The listed resources and contacts remind the reader that there is a real, tangible person on the other end who is willing to help!

in love with this book.
Hats off to Sharne Algotsson. I love This second book. The color palettes are breathtaking, the design ideas are easily digestble anf the text was clear and to the point. What a great book.

Beautiful and practical
Sharne Algotsson has managed the feat of writing a book that is both a coffee table book, thanks to the beautiful color palettes and G. Ross' magnificent photography, as well a a useful how-to book. This book will be attractive to anyone who would like to beautify their interior, even if they are not specifically searching for "Africanness": the color combinations are so elegant and warm, any home will benefit!

What a wonderful book
After reading the first book "The Spirit of African Design," I thought a design book could not get much better. However, George Ross's beautiful photography, paired with Sharne Algotsson's creative styling proved otherwise. The "how-to's" were simple to follow and helped me create beauty in my own home. The gentleman who also reviewed the book here commented that this book was not mainstream enough. He is right, it is not mainstream, but mainstream would defy the very nature of African style. This book provided visiual and creative stimulation and I would reccommend it to anyone looking to add a personal flair to their home. ... Read more

Book Description

A critical survey of Spanish architecture, hitting all the high points since World War II. ... Read more

Book Description

Following the death of Franco in 1975 Spain's long cultural isolation came to an end. The country has since openeditselfup to foreign influences and particularly in architecture there has been a great revival with famous names such as Alejandro de la Sota, Oriol Bohigas and Rafael Moneo emerging. In the meantime a new generation of architects has grown up and is beginning to gain recognition.In this publication 14 of the most significant offices are portrayed: Abalos & Herreros; Tunon & Mansilla;Juan Ignacio Mera; Alejandro Zaera & Farshid Moussavi; Ruisanchez & Vendrell; Batlle & Roig; Rafael Aranda, Carme Pigem & Vilalta; Francisco Mangado; Leache & Tabuenca; Garcia Marquez & Rubio; Garcia-Solera & Paya; Feo-Ojeda, Espino & Martinez. ... Read more

Book Description

This new history of over 5,000 years of African art reveals its true diversity for the first time. Challenging centuries of misconceptions that have obscured the sophisticated nature of African art, Garlake focuses on seven key regions--southern Africa, Nubia, Aksum, the Niger River, West Africa, Great Zimbabwe, and the East African coast--treating each in detail and setting them in their social and historical context. Garlake is long familiar with and has extensive practical experience of both the archaeology and the art history of Africa. Using the latest research and archaeological findings, he offers exciting new insights into the works native to these areas, and he also puts forth new interpretations of several key cultures and monuments. Acknowledging the universal allure of the African art object, this stunning book helps us to understand more about the ways in which this art was produced, used, and received. ... Read more

Reviews (3)

Nice pictures and good texts
Recommended for travelers to Andalusia who want to get something more than they usually get from guided tours. Also good for all those who wants to see what poor Europeans did with great architecture of Moors.

A non-professional view
I just have a love of architecture, for the art of it. This is a beautiful book. The photographs are breathtaking. The writing actually interested me in the history of an area I had never even thought about before.I would have liked to have seen some of the more humble ,common buildings though.

First global Andalusia view
If you need a global view of Andalusia architecture, this is your book. Complete vision around this beautiful country along the time. The pics have a great quality, and the best of them, are two-pages sized. Yo'll see great panoramic views and detailled, too. ... Read more

Book Description

Catalan language and culture revitalized after years of repression and new prosperity have fuelled a local design boom. This new guide examines a broad range of recent architecture and urbanism in the city, and provides an understanding of the historical and political contexts that have shaped the place. 150 b/w photographs. ... Read more

Book Description

From Egypt to Ethiopia, Botswana to Burundi, and Zimbabwe to Cameroon, this landmark book presents the first complete and definitive study of African architecture from antiquity to the present. Featuring hundreds of museum-quality photographs and drawings from archival and modern sources, the book offers architects, architectural and art historians, social scientists, and all those interested in world architecture with an ordinary account of the evolution, transformation, and development of architecture across the African continent. Elleh defines the indigenous, Islamic, and Western roots of African architecture, and goes on to examine how these roots influence the architecture of each region in Africa. The author evaluates historical, traditional, and contemporary architecture by examing the various cultural groups of North, Central, East, South, and Western Africa from ethnic, climatic, political, regional, economic, religious, and historical perspectives. In addition, a final chapter takes a revealing look at modern architecture, urbanism, and urbanization throughout Africa. At once a work of convincing scholarship and a beautifully illustrated tour of African architecture past and present, this is a pioneering book that brings a heretofore rarely examined body of work dramatically to life. ... Read more

Reviews (6)

Poor book
Dear Sirs,

When I have ordered the book I thought it will be excellent sourse for me before studing some particular topic. But I was disapointed when I read it from the very begining. It is simply poor. African architecture is very rich. It is hard to imagine how the author could write such a poor book. Photos are also not very good. Everyone who understand and can "read" arcitecture would write that there is not enough information even on the subjects which are described in the book.

I would say this book should cost less.

Excellent book!
I thought the book was very well written and I also think Nnamdi (also known as Daler Medley) is a very good professor. I had him for an Art History class at the University of Illinois at Chicago, and he certainly helped me have a greater appreciation for African Art. I strongly recommend this book if you are interested in African Art. He always stressed that it is not what kind of letter grade you get in the class, but rather what you get out of the class as a whole. I completely agree with this comment, and it's because of his style, and passion towards art as to why I have such a great interest in art today.

A book that needs to be written better
Elleh's effort is well-worthy of praise for its scope, but lacks in scholarly quality. Her triple-heritage theory is interesting but poorly-applied in many instances throughout the book, especially because of the broad timeline the book attempts to address. The images are marvelous, and inclusive, though some are incongrous to the articles they accompany. This is a very basic book, good for a coffee table or an introductory course on the subject, but one I could not recommend for the more serious scholar.

Good content but poorly written
This book was a noble effort to shed light on a subject that most people know nothing about, but it misses the mark in literary style. In other words, it would be nice to have for reference, but it's nearly impossible to read. The style is akin to what I'd expect from a high school student writing a research paper. Elleh's triple heritage theory (traditional, Islamic and colonial influences on African styles) appears throughout the book, but never is it defended clearly and cohesively. I'd like to see this book re-written and professionally edited. With the amount of research that Elleh put into this work, the potential is there for a truly great book.

A very necessary book for Architectural academia.
This book moves vernacular architecture from the backwaters of academia to the vangard. I was impressed by the authors academic and 'open' style. He has given the architectural student and professional population the opportunity to both explore African architecture and their own perhaps jaundiced view of the region. Everyone should come out a winner after reading this book. I say give me more! ... Read more

Book Description

Beautifully presented and bound in silk, this stunningly photographed celebration of Moroccan style is a rich sourcebook of design and inspiration. From coastal Tangier to Casablanca and Marrakech, through the Atlas Mountains and right to the edge of the Sahara, here are exquisite landscapes, magnificent architecture, intricate crafts, and a unique approach found nowhere else. Settlements and fortresses on the "Route of a Thousand Kasbahs" feature distinctive turrets and towers and carvings in the stone. The exquisite Caravanserai, a modern building by one of Morocco's best-known architects, showcases a sequence of corridors and rooms leading to a breathtaking garden and pool. Gorgeous mosaics and tiles appear everywhere, along with brilliant colors, opulent fabrics, and complex patterns. Whether traditional or contemporary, everything has a profound sensuousness of form and contrast of materials. From classic Berber designs and sparse, organic desert architecture to the Art Deco style from the days of the French Protectorate, each page reveals a different, amazing facet of Morocco.
... Read more

Reviews (1)

File Under: Achitectural Novels
I picked up this book in the remainder bin at the bookstore of the Centre for Canadian Architecture in Montreal at a good price. I had heard of the late John Hejduk from some architect friends, and was interested in how he was described to me: an architect who uses drawings, poems and travel to create a narrative framework for his buildings and proposals. "Pewter Wings" falls definately into this category; this book traces Hejduk's travels through Spain to highlight his interest in sacred spaces of architecture--churches, cathedrals and chapels in particular. More than a document of his plans and ideas for new places of spiritual awe, this book traverses the fine lines between mental and physical landscapes, arguing for a holistic approach to building design. Focusing on regional folklore, "Pewter Wings" suggests that architecture should somehow participate in- and contribute to- the mythmaking of a particular site, and ultimately act as a "poetic cohesion" to bring these places of worship to life. Containing hundreds of watercolour paintings, travelogues and poems, this beautiful book allows a narrative to unfold between these various mediums. "Pewter Wings, Golden Horns, Stone Veils" is a delicious, throught-provoking read that suggests an inspiring alternative to the traditional architectural strictures of site, form and functionality. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

Magnificent and detailed Spanish and Portugese architecture
For depth, visual grandeur and sheer beauty, you can't do much better than this book. With buildings ranging from the Nasrid palace to the Umayyad mosque at Cordoba the author reveals the history and aesthetic techniques used in Spanish and Portugese Oriental architecture. Anyone wanting a fuller appreciation or knowledge of this rich architectural legacy would do well to linger over this one. Chapters are arranged by historical period or movement (Christianity in the North...Confrontation and Reconquest...Revival and Transformation...etc). The photos deserve special mention. They were specially commissioned for this book and are so gorgeous that I have picked up the book again and again (even when I was too tired to read the text) just to enjoy looking at them. Truly stunning photography! ... Read more

Book Description

These photographs by Sebastian Schutyser reveal a neglected African architectural heritage: village adobe mosques. His black-and-white images emphasize an artistic fusion of architecture and sculpture and exalt the strength and beauty of a craft that eludes globalization. The photos emphasize the grain and substance of clay smoothed by villagers' hands or cracked by erosion, and highlight the solidity of the masonry and the sensuality of the textures. The texts that accompany these stunning pictures are by a leading expert on raw-earth architecture and by a major scholar on African vernacular architecture. Included is an appendix that documents all 500 of the principal adobe mosques of the Inner Niger Delta, with the names of the villages and geographical coordinates. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

Astonishing indigenous architecture book
This superbly designed and produced book on adobe mosques in Mali is the freshest architecture title this season. Sebastian Schutyser's handsome photographs do these haunting monuments proud. The only architecture we have in this country that compares to these mosques are the beloved New Mexican adobes -- and they look conventional in comparison. ... Read more

Reviews (2)

A BOON FOR ARMCHAIR TRAVELERS
Aficionados of Spain and all things Spanish will revel in this celebration of Barcelona's art nouveau architecture.

While Antonio Gaudi is, of course, Spain's preeminent exponent of eye-popping structures, fabled Barcelona is brimming with other examples of this style. A boon for the armchair traveler.

Just Like Being There!
Having recently visited Barcelona, I was looking for a book that would help me remember. This book did just that, it is as close to being there as I can get. The photography was amazing and really made the city come alive. ... Read more