Book Description

Achieve a solid understanding of the engineering and drafting tools that are the cornerstone of Autodesk® Land Desktop 2005!This comprehensive reference and study guide takes readers step-by-step through key topics relevant to everyday design work, and features straightforward discussions of the command sequences and design tools needed for drafting, mapping, and analysis.Up-to-date coverage includes the latest applications LandXML, LandXML reporting, the new vertical editor, new point grouping options, and more.A companion CD-ROM offers support data and partially completed exercise files to help users move quickly through all exercises. ... Read more

Book Description

A user guide written for project planners in any industry including building, construction, oil & gas and software development. ... Read more

Reviews (4)

Learning to use Suretrak V3.0
Approximately 200 pages presented as a comprehensive step by step guide to setting up and getting the most out of Suretrak. I found many helpful tips that are not in the Suretrak's help files or manuals. A chapter is also devoted to the new features in Suretrak Version 3.0 and this allowed me, as an existing Suretrak user, to hone in on the new features. In all, 21 workshops re-enforced the material as its presented and made me reflect on the content. Readers will need access to the Suretrak software (the demo version will do) to get the most from this book.

Makes an incredible program more incredible
When I reviewed the SureTrak program here last may I considered myself to be an experienced used who fully understood the features of that powerful PM application. After reading this book I found out that I was only using a fraction of the features that are built into SureTrak. For example, while I knew that it supported multiple calendars. This feature gives you absolute control and is especially useful when you're using subcontractors or multi-national resources. Until I was stepped through it by the book's lessons I didn't know how to fully exploit its power.

It was the same for reports. SureTrak includes reports for every conceivable management style and project type. The problem is there are so many that it's difficult to select the ones best suited to each project's unique requirements or your PM standards. This book clearly explained the reports and clearly explained how to create custom reports in the unlikely event that what you need isn't already included. I also learned a lot from the lessons on resource management, as well as the author's tips for project management in general.

If you're using SureTrak you should get this book because it's a safe bet that you're not using everything it has to offer for planning, scheduling and control - and this book will reveal them.

Fast start to using the power of SureTrak
Although SureTrak Project Manager 3.0 ships with adequate documentation and the program is intuitive, there are three good reasons to buy this book:

1. The product documentation covers every feature - the information about planning and managing projects using this powerful tool is scattered throughout, making it difficult to tap into SureTrak's power without wading through an overwhelming amount of nice-to-know, but non-essential detail.

2. Although anyone who has used Microsoft's ubiquitous MS Project will have no problem getting started with SureTrak, they will miss the true project management features of SureTrak that are not present (or don't correctly work) in MS Project. This book identifies those features and shows how to use them effectively.

3. The author goes beyond merely describing how to use SureTrak by showing you how to use effective project management techniques, many of which take years of managing projects to discover.

The book is structured as a series of 20 lessons (called workshops) that are designed to step you through setting up a project, and planning and scheduling it. If you follow them in sequence you will be able to not only set up a project using SureTrak's rich feature set, but will also pick up general project management techniques along the way. An example of one such technique is how the author classifies projects into four levels for planning and controlling. These levels are based on project complexity, with Level 1 being the simplest and suitable for short projects, to Level 4 for complex, high-value projects. You are given the planning and tracking criteria for each project type, which allows you to tailor your approach as well as ensure that you don't over-manage simple projects or under-manage the complex ones.

You are also shown how to use the more powerful features, such as the many project views (work breakdown structure, activity or resource), managing the sophisticated calendaring functions, and effectively using the resource profiles and reporting features. I particularly like the way earned value is treated. The author shows how to use SureTrak's facilities for managing to earned value, as well as explaining this essential technique (which, by the way, is now a part of the Project Management Institute's PMBOK 2000 version). Another bonus is the way scheduling is explained by walking through adding logic to activities. You'll not only be shown how to perform this task, but given reasons why you should use one approach from among four possibilities to establish relationships. In this example the choices are start-to-start, finish-to-start, start-to-finish and finish-to-finish.

This book is clear, concise and heavily illustrated with screenshots from SureTrak. The tutorial style and the way the lessons are sequenced will get you quickly up-to-speed with SureTrak and give you the knowledge and skills necessary to employ it with minimum reference to the manuals that come with the software.

Planning Using Primavera SureTrak Project Manager Version 3.
Planning Using Primavera SureTrak Project Manager Version 3 is a Training Manual introducing the features of the Suretrak Version 3.0 Software which is used for Planning and Controlling Projects. The Technical Services Group at John Holland has been using SureTrak since its introduction by Primavera. I personally use Paul Harris' manual in the delivery of training courses in SureTrak. At John Holland we conduct SureTrak training over a two day period, and within this time limitation I have found the manual provides comprehensive detail on the features of SureTrak and is easy to follow. As it is considered to be an excellent guide in respect of the use of the software, at the end of the training course attendees receive a manual for reference and as a 'memory jogger' when they start to use the software. The manual is divided into sections with a 'workshop' at the end of each section providing the ability to practice the points covered. Useful tips, for both experienced and new users are provided throughout the manual and are indicated with an 'i'. This is a manual that the user will turn to again and again. Particularly for new users of the Software, but even for experienced users who are trying to solve a particulasr problem it is a good guide into the features of SureTrak. This manual fills a slot in the market as an easy to follow guide in the use of the SureTrak Version 3.0 software, and I would recommend it to those wishing to learn how to use SureTrak or refresh their skills. ... Read more

Book Description

Seventeen spectacular homes nestled on the Pacific coast of Mexico are featured in gorgeous detail in Pacific Coastal Homes. These homes represent some of the best work of noted architects such as Fernando de Haro, Enrique, Zozaya, Manuel Mestre, and Marco Aldaco. Sections cover Natural Impressions -- entrances and exteriors; Interior Style -- living rooms and dining rooms; Intimate Spaces -- bedrooms and bathrooms; and Outdoor Life -- pools and terraces. In the introduction are images from Careyes, where the palapas architecture was first used for these types of homes. 200 color photographs are featured. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

Inspiring photos
We are considering a move to pacific Costa Rica (As the native ex-patriots call it "Hawaii for half the price") and this book is loaded with design ideas. In every way this book is a gem and I look and buy architectural design books quite frequently... this one blew me away. I often look at books on contemporary Mexican design as well as books with an Asian theme; Thai, Bali and Ibiza, Greece, in general homes with a coastal or tropical feel and with lots of mystery and sun. This book fulfils my requirements and without any waste. Some books will have a few great photos and alot of duds thrown in. Either photos that don't radiate much excitement or drama or are of mundane ho hum same same you have seen elsewhere and probably better. Or shots of mediocre furnishings ... This book firstly doesn't have one wasteful photo and it displays some of the great contemporary (Mexican) architects who you may want to design your next home... furthermore, it was wonderfuly edited so that you feel a great flow thoughout. You will also be impressed with some of the textiles and ideas for built in furniture. These homes have drama, mystery, and reflect a wonderful coexistence with the majesty of this beautiful coastal rocky terrain. They are homes which truly integrate into the surrounding nature with great respect for their environment rather then being ostentious monstrocities. These homes have a Wow factor as they are commanding but have subtle grace at the same time. ... Read more

Book Description

The most comprehensive architecture/construction dictionary available.

For the broadest possible coverage of terms that make up the basic language of architecture and construction, look no further than Dictionary of Architecture & Construction, Third Edition. Extensively revised, updated, and expanded by editor Cyril M. Harris, 50 expert contributors, and 20 key associations, this classic, the only dictionary comprehensive and inclusive enough to serve the needs of contractors as well as architects, covers terms in over 80 working areas: terms found in drawings and in specifications...building products and materials, and terms dealing with their design, appearance, performance,installation, and testing...definitions of finishes, coatings and surfacings...types of units, assemblies, systems and modules....tools, devices, machines, and construction equipment,and much more. Featuring enhanced page design for easier reading, this edition now provides you with:

• 25,000 definitions in clear, concise language
• Over 2,000 illustrations
• Full coverage of new technologies and new building materials
• Greater emphasis on conservation, preservation, and restoration terms, reflecting their increased importance in the field

Reviews (3)

A Dictionary without Pronunciations?
I have seen this book and borrowed it often. An invaluable reference... BUT: how do you pronounce all of these scientific and foreign-sourced words? I guarantee you will not find them in Webster's. This is a major oversight for a book calling itself a "dictionary."

Just right for you
For anyone who just wants to know more about architecture. Perfect for non-english speaking architectural students like me. I really improved my knowledge of architecture.

Dictionary of Architecture & Construction
A must-have for students and professionals alike. Clear definitions, useful illustrations, everyday terminology. Contains terms used by building professionals in coordinating with other trades. Resolves office terminology disagreements to provide for more accurate construction documents. For non-professionals - gain the knowledge you need in order intelligently communicate your needs to your architect or contractor. ... Read more

Reviews (8)

Small Barn Plans for Owner-Builders
I found this book to be an excellent source of information. It has greatly helped me do the planning for the construction of my barn.

not necessarily what the cover says...
The cover bills it as 'complete' plans for 12 different barns- actually, to get complete plans that would be needed to get building permit do construction or buy materials, you have to order a set form the authors website. The book has nice practical ideas about working with subcontactors, and the designs and sources are quite useful.

If only I knew then
If only I knew when I built my barn what the author shares in this book, my life would have been so much easier.

Offers cogent step-by-step advice
Compiled and presented by Craig Wallin, Small Barn Plans For Owner-Builders is a practical and impressive reference that will enable any amateur or professional barn-builder to save both money and effort in the process of building a barn on their land. Included are the complete construction plans for twelve of the most popular barn designs. In addition to the in-depth design plans which make Small Barn Plans for Owner-Builders an ideal and economical resource for property owners in need of a barn, Wallin offers cogent step-by-step advice regarding legal codes and regulations, working with building inspectors and contractors, avoiding common construction and design pitfalls, and much, much more.

Best barn book
This is a great, thorough, from start-to-finish explanation of how to build a barn for your property. Beautiful, functional plans, expert easy-to-follow construction detail. Even how to manage the building permit process. Highly recommend it! ... Read more

Book Description

Utilizing a variety of hands-on lessons, this book introduces students to the basics of Pro/Engineer® Wildfire, one of the most widely used CAD/CAM software programs in the world. The author's basic premise is that the more parts, assemblies, and drawings one creates using Pro/E® Wildfire, the better one learns the software. With this in mind, each lesson introduces a new set of commands with an incrementally more difficult set of parts while building on previous lessons. The parts created (in Part One of the book) are used to create assemblies (Part Two) and generate drawings (Part Three). Students are able to work with actual completed parts, assemblies, and drawings in a short-lesson format, instead of building large complex projects where basic commands may be overshadowed and lost in a complicated process. Rather than attempting to cover all of Pro/E Wildfire's features, this book provides an introduction to the software, makes one reasonably proficient in its use, and establishes a firm basis for exploring and growing with the program beyond the classroom. ... Read more

Reviews (5)

Pro/E Wildfire (with CD-ROM Pro/E Wildfire Software)
Title correction: Pro/ENGINEER Wildfire, by Louis Gary Lamit, is supposed to be titled:

Pro/Engineer® Wildfire™ (with CD-ROM containing Pro/E Wildfire Software.

Pro/ENGINEER Wildfire Tryout Edition (see cad-resources.c for sample page and lesson downloads) comes with the textbook and is good for 60-120 days.

A boxed-set version that includes the text, the Tryout Edition, and the Student Edition (no time stamp) is available from Journey Ed.

Most comprehensive Pro/E Wildfire book; worth every penny!
Concise and well presented with a strong approach on appropriate parametric modeling techniques that are not usually covered in other books. This is with out a doubt the best-written introduction book on Pro/E I have ever seen. It is also quite good as an upgrade book. Lamits propensity for writing textbooks throughout the years truly comes out in this new version. I could not ask for a better manual to instruct my students with. Not only does it cover parametric modeling with a step-by-step approach were one learned technique builds on another, but it also covers assembles and detailing as well. It comprehensively covers the new WildFire interface and includes a free CD with a 60 to 120 day Tryout Edition that contains Pro/ENGINEER and Pro/MECHANICA. What a deal...If you find a better book I will eat this one!

new version is easy to use and teach with
The text has been completed reformatted to one column, with linear steps and boxed commands. I used the previous four versions and this is the easiest to follow- learn from and teach with. Provides comprehensive coverage of Pro/E part, assembly, and detail modules. Includes the complete Pro/ENGINEER Tryout Edition for free. Tryout Edition is an educational version of the Pro/E software and comes with Pro/MECHANICA, Animation and Mechanism Modules.

Pro/ENGINEER Wildfire software comes with text!!!!!
Very comprhensive text on Wildfire. Pro/E Wildfire Tryout Version which is good for 60-120 days came with the text and lets me do all lessons from home.

Includes Pro/ENGINEER TRYOUT EDITION
Great value- includes Pro/E software good for 60 days- FREE. ... Read more

Book Description

Examines structural aspects of high rise buildings, particularly fundamental approaches to the analysis of the behavior of different forms of building structures including frame, shear wall, tubular, core and outrigger-braced systems. Introductory chapters discuss the forces to which the structure is subjected, design criteria which are of the greatest relevance to tall buildings, and various structural forms which have developed over the years since the first skyscrapers were built at the turn of the century. A major chapter is devoted to the modeling of real structures for both preliminary and final analyses. Considerable attention is devoted to the assessment of the stability of the structure, and the significance of creep and shrinkage is discussed. A final chapter is devoted to the dynamic response of structures subjected to wind and earthquake forces. Includes both accurate computer-based and approximate methods of analysis. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

Compendio de sistemas estructurales
Es muy agradable poder contar con un texto que contenga una descripción completa de la mayoría de las tipologías y sistemas estructurales disponibles en el abanico del diseñador. Es una herramienta fundamental para orientar al estudiante contribuyendo a la formación de un "criterio" profesional de selección. Para el profesional es un manual de consulta permanente. Para el profesor un auxiliar muy valioso para la enseñanza-aprendizaje del comportamiento estructural. Como docente de facultad de arquitectura y profesional del diseño estructural considero que es un texto para tener muy a mano tanto en la bilbioteca personal como en la de las Universidades.

Ing. Daniel Quiroga Mendoza Argentina ... Read more

Reviews (4)

A Real Joy
My family and I recently bought a farmhouse in Provence, something we've been dreaming of doing for a very long time. It's been a joy to restore our new home, but even more of a joy to simply live in it and enjoy it. This book has been invaluable to us in the restoration of our home, and, even if it hadn't, the 200 full color photos of 16 gorgeous Provencal homes make it worth owning.

Bright yellow and bright blue are the traditional colors of Provence and we've used them in our home for everything from the kitchen tiles to the wash on the stone exterior to the fabric that covers our furniture. Like many of the homes in the book, we've let old timber beams remain exposed and a jumble of copper pots and pans, as well as fresh herbs from our garden, hang on a pot rack in our kitchen.

Like the farmhouses in the book, our house has huge stone fireplaces in the living room, the bedroom and the kitchen. We've learned to use these fireplaces the way they should be used and I'm sure they'll come in very handy this winter (here in the mountains of Provence, it gets cold, unlike the warmer winter temperatures of the coast).

THE PROVENCAL HOUSE not only explores traditional farmhouses like ours, it details town houses and manor houses as well and you can find a wealth of styles to choose from, from traditional to very contemporary (the traditional, however, has been my choice).

You don't have to be a resident of Provence like I am to enjoy THE PROVENCAL HOUSE. Francophiles in other countries can learn how to decorate their homes in the Provencal style, a style that is both comfortable and lovely.

I love this book. I've found it informative, helpful and a real joy just to look at.

great inspirational book
I can be critical of design and house books after seeing so many, so it's a relief to finally be able to give a book five stars. The photographs are authentic and detail everything from interior to exterior, including gardens. The essence of French provincal style is captured and distilled here. The writing is clever and concise, although you'll hardly notice it because the pictures are so brilliant. This is an essential book if you're trying to capture the French provencal look in house design or interior design. This book gives you an authentic source reference.

Beautiful Book!
I'm an architect with the task of designing a "French" style home. This is one of several books I ordered to use as references. The appeal of this book for me is that it includes exterior architecture, interior design/decor, & gardens/landscapes. It is extensively illustrated with color photos & captions (my kind of book...). I can't critique the text because I have not yet had time to read it. But I can't get enough of the pictures!

Breathtaking
I picked this book up from the table of new releases at a local bookstore, sat in a chair, and didn't move except to turn the pages for the next 90 minutes. In more than 200 color photographs, The Provencal House explores the beauty of 16 Provencal homes - interior and exterior details, uses of color playing off the landscape, curves and arches and doorways. It's a beautiful celebration of an architectural way of life rooted in the land and its traditions. ... Read more

Book Description

Christopher Gray's engaging tales of historic Gotham locales transport readers back in time for a stroll through the streets of old New York. The noted architectural historian, who writes the popular "Streetscapes" column in The New York Times, here gathers 190 of the best-loved of those columns to captivate readers with his wealth of information about sites and buildings and the intriguing lives of the people connected to them.

From the Bridge Cafe (New York's oldest surviving bar) on Water Street to the Revolutionary War-era Morris-Jumel Mansion in upper Manhattan, Gray turns the spotlight on both obscure and familiar landmarks, and each of his witty, urbane essays is illustrated with at least one period photograph. Gray's vast enthusiasm and love for New York's architecture is evident in all that he writes, as is his concern for the preservation of the city's architectural treasures. ... Read more

Reviews (3)

Wonderful description of the BIG APPLE
As a New Yorker all I can say is this is the best book I've read about the city.

What a wonderful pleasure!
A tremendous gift to anyone who loves the history of Manhattan. Gray writes well, his information is military in both precision and accuracy and the anecdotes alone are worth the price of the book.

My only wish is that one day, after he retires, a work of all his columns will be published. Perhaps the title "Gray's Anatomy" would suffice.

A Wonderful Book
Christopher Gray is a New York Treasure. Every Sunday when I get the NY times, I read his column first. If you're a die-hard New Yorker, or wish to be, don't miss this great compilation. ... Read more

Reviews (5)

Answered my questions
I have been considering building a home on a piece of property I own for the better part of a year now. I'm a fan of SIPs due to energy efficiency and the perception I have of their ability to withstand the harsh climate of south Texas. It helps that the best home I've ever owned (and I've owned more than ten) was a panelized home but on a wood foundation that I purchased in Minnesota 15 years ago. The house was solid, energy efficient and better built than anything any of the many site built stick homes I owned before and since.

I've tracked down a variety of sources of information on SIPS including most information readily available on the web. This book has been an essential tool for me, and I would heartily recommend it to anyone considering building with SIPs. It addresses all of the common objections and misperceptions (and there are many), and it does so in a methodical and comprehensive manner. I can see where some folks might consider that to be promotional, but I believe there is still a stigma to panelized construction, at least in the minds of a large segment of the population, so perhaps it's appropriate that a little promotion or cheerleading is included. It also addresses a number of practical considerations you'll have when building, such as electrical, plumbing and hvac considerations. It's not a manual, but I wasn't looking for a manual. After reading it, I feel that I will be better able to find and work with a builder and accomplish my goal...to build a quality, affordable house that is structurally superior, energy efficient and will last the rest of my life. Most importantly, I have yet to find another source on the subject that provides so much information with so little effort. As a result, it gets five stars.

Informative, though promotional
Three years after it was published, this is still the only book that I'm aware of that offers comprehensive coverage on the subject. Luckily, it is a very informative one -though a bit promotional. If you are looking to build or have someone build an SIP home, read this book first then you'll know at least as much as your SIP sales person does -a good position to be in when shopping for anything.

Just what I was looking for
This book filled every expectation and more. I am a builder looking to possibly transition to SIPs. This book answered all my questions and some I hadn't thought of yet. If you are a builder looking to start using SIPs, buy this book.

A dissapointing offering from the Taunton press
While the Taunton press has published some quality books, I certainly don't feel this is one. As a professional contactor looking for an introduction to SIPs, this book did provide a cursory overview of the product and its use. I was, however, disappointed to the point of annoyance with both factual and editing errors. I found terms introduced but not defined, misplaced paragraphs of text, and no mention of areas of real concern that someone considering using this system should be aware (perform internet search using the keywords: Structal Inslated Panel, failures, Alaska).
Perhaps I am too hard to please, and the book is right up your alley. In its favor, there are a lot of glossy photos, clear line drawings, and sidebars showing related tidbits of information. For the reader that likes to browse through a book in no particular order just to get the feel for a topic, this is probably right on the money. For someone looking for a more rigorous and substantive view of SIPs, or for one accustomed to higher editing standards, I would recommend looking elsewhere.

Comprehensive new book to cover emerging building technology
While SIPs have been arround for 60 years, the author believes the time is now for explosive growth of this technique for residential and commercial buildings.

The book covers all steps in the fabrication and assembly of SIP panels and buildings in a way that isn't overly technical. The emphasis is for professionals, and indeed SIPs present a challenge to the do-it yourselfer since some of the panel elements are so large a crane or forklift is essential. SIP building as presented, however, seems very simple, and otherwise suited to self-builders. In essense each panel when complete can stand in for many other elements: the studs, plates, the sheating , insulation, vapour barrier, fasteners, plumbing and electrical chases, and interior rough or finished surfaces.

The book gives lots of information on different SIP types, and tools.

The book covers structural panels almost exclusively, in other words the simmilar panels used for timber frames etc..., which are not load-bearing are addressed, but are not the subject of this book.

My only dissappointment is that as an amateur builder the book doesn't deal with that aspect of the subject at all. The field is relatively unfriedly to non-commercial participants. SIPs are relatively hard to find in small quantities, and even though the process is simpler that stud building, for instance, they don't want to deal with you but your architect. Not the book's fault.

The author seems a sincere advocate for SIPs, if at times a little closed to other alternatives, which would present less of a cultural, financial, or technical barrier to the average buyer or user. I'd like to believe him, but so far SIPs haven't made an appearance at the local Home Depot. Most people have hammered a nail into a 2x4, but your going to have to buy into this system sight unseen, unless the SIP industry gets a little more democratic about its distribution.

This book was probably a three star or four star effort for me, given my focus, but fully five star for the intended audience: Contractors stepping up to the system for the first time. ... Read more

Amazon.com

A work of art in itself, The Architecture Pack is a highly sophisticated version of the beloved pop-up book that offers a unique, cross-cultural, three-dimensional tour of architecture through the centuries. By flipping the elaborately engineered pages, we learn what architects do, how they do it, and all about the great buildings of the world from antiquity to the present. It's packed with information and hands-on activities, models, fold-outs, pop-ups, and 3-D glasses; readers can even fold out a miniature version of the Colosseum in Rome or a French Gothic cathedral. There are discussions on the development of the dome, new materials and shapes, sculptural buildings such as those of Gaudi and Le Corbusier, and skyscrapers. Also included in the pack are a model (with assembly instructions) of Gerrit Rietveld's famous, flat-roofed Schroeder House; a glossary of architectural terms; a fold-out time line of the history of architecture and architects that runs from 2670 B.C. to A.D. 1997; and a cassette tape. This wonderfully accessible introduction to architecture is sure to generate enthusiasm from both children and adults, simply because people can have fun with it. ... Read more

Reviews (13)

A Jewel Of A Book
If this book had met only 1/2 of my expectations, I would have been pleased. It exceeded them. Every page is a series of surprises and delights. Whether you're interested in Architecture, or just love classy gadgets, this is your book. I cannot imagine anyone who, getting this book as a gift, would not be delighted. Read the product description, and add 50%. The only down sides are the long delivery time, and the book's delicacy. One is torn between wanting to look at its contents repeatedly, and the fear that the book might be damaged by too much handling. Order two!!

A Revelation
Contrary to other architecture books that are muddled with academicians' essays, which in turn are filled with architecture terms that amateurs like myself wouldn't possibly understand, this book or pack is informative, playful, and easy to understand. Just say that it's a crash course into architecture rather having you going thru 5 years training in a varsity with working experience. The pack guides you to the fundamentals of architecture like the origin of architecture, when is architecture becoming a distinctive profession as in miedevel time, architect is a stonemason, sculptor all blended into one; the influence of Classicim, unavoidabability of learning about Palladio and Vitruvius; structure and form; new materials & shapes; art & architecture blended as one; the changing city, influenced mostly by our usage of cars; the process, with Richard Meier's Getty Centre as a case study. To top this pack off, there a booklet informing readers of prominent &/or infleuntial architects & architecure terms commonly heard & used respectively(quite concise); timeline stipulating the architecture breakthrough since the beginning of time & where does those famous architects stand in the passage of time; a model of Schroeder house for us to build. The journey through this pack is simply a revelation, surprises everywhere & never failed to bewilder me. I'm adamant that the pop-up buildings is an art in its own rite & what about the enclosed "Mission Impossible" glasses that enable us to see the inner structure and exterior structure of buildings so that we would appreciate architecture more? Before I forget, there's also a cassette narrated by the author. Believe me, you will spend hours and hours immersing yourself in this pack forgetting how time flies when you are enjoying yourself the most. Highly recommended for architecture enthusiasts. A note of caution though, due to the fiddly but fine detailing in this book, readers are urged to handle the pack with utmost care, & it would be wonderful to have a second edition, continuing on where the author has left off in 1997.

Best Pop-up Book in the World
I have seen 100's of thousands of books, and this one is near the top of the list. Not only is it one of the best pop up books I have seen, it is very informative and educational. It is a great learning tool for most ages and it's alot of fun too. The price is worth the effort the publishers have put in. It also sub.'s as a great coffee table book as well.

Thanks for making this wonderful book affordable!
I saw this book at the gift shop of a museum and wanted it for my 12-year old son who wants to be a structural engineer. But the price tag stopped me. Now my son can have a chance to truly explore achitecture in an experiential way. The pop ups are astounding but all the other "do" things, make this book a great way to keep anyone's attention. My son and I will enjoy this book together.

The Architecture Pack
This book was the most interesting book I have ever seen, the 3-D effects really make the book worth it, an awesome buy! ... Read more

Book Description

Take a look around you. What do you see? Whether or not you’re aware of it, your environment profoundly affects your health, wealth, family life, relationships, and yes, even your destiny. Feng Shui (pronounced fung shway), which means wind water, is the ancient Chinese study of harmony and energy flow between you and your physical surroundings. You can enrich every aspect of your life by applying Feng Shui principles to your home (inside and out) and workplace (from window office to cubicle).

Feng Shui For Dummies is for anyone who seeks a better life. This clearly written, concise, and easy-to-understand guide can help anyone to

• Create harmony and happiness in your relationships
• Increase your prosperity
• Eliminate chronic patterns of failure, difficulty, and stress
• Energize your home or workplace
• Enjoy better health

This book shows you how to feel and access the energy of your environment (it’s easier than you may think!). Find out how your environment influences your life right now. Use the solutions in this book to overcome obstacles and enhance the positive. You'll be sure to feel the before-and-after differences.

Feng Shui For Dummies also covers the following topics and more:

• The meaning and history of Feng Shui
• Making the most of the space in your home, both inside and outside
• Tapping into the power of the five elements
• Boosting your career
• Jazzing up your bedroom for increased health, energy, and romance
• Performing blessing ceremonies
• Cleansing and curing with meditation

Within the past 10 years, Feng Shui has gained widespread popularity in the West. Today, more and more people from all walks of life are practicing Feng Shui and experiencing the positive benefits of auspicious placement. This book shows you everything you need to know to help improve the flow of harmony, creativity, and abundance in your life. ... Read more

Reviews (34)

I ABSOLUTELY LOVE IT!
This book makes Feng Shui much easier than any other book that I have tried to read. If you've been looking for a book that will guide you step by step, this is it. It has so much information pack in it, I haven't been able to put it down! I highly recommend it to everyone, so much so that I have purchased several copies as gifts for friends and colleagues.

superb!
As a new student of Feng Shui, I found this book along with D.D. Kennedy's Feng Shui Tips For a Better Life to be extremly informative & easy to understand. Having read 9 books, I feel the most comfortable with the Ba Gua method--but then that's a highly personal choice.

Feng Shui
This is ridiculous! The book is only 3x3 inches at the most and I feel it was a ripoff. Save your money. This was a waste of time and money for me and I feel like pitching it out.

Incredibly Good Do-It-Yourself, Step-by-Step Book!!!
If only I'd purchased this book sooner. Believe me, there is more clear and practical information in this book then in the many workshops I've attended, costing me hundreds of dollars.
In trying to learn feng shui, I have been frustrated by the lack of clarity surrounding this subject. Other books I own, review a lot of history and theory, but lack when it comes down to implementation or assume that you know more about the subject then is actually written in the book. Not this book.
Feng Shui for Dummies is well written, has humor and leads you step-by-step in each situation, just what a do-it-yourself book is intended to do.
This book does what it is suppose to do, teaches the novice how to implement basic feng shui one step at a time. HOORAH!
If your the kind of person that purchases a do-it-yourself book to get things done, not to be bogged down with theory then this is the book for you.

Rubbish
My sister-in-law, who has been hitting on me ever since I managed to divorce her sister, gave me this book as a "Thanksgiving present". It was great as an excuse to get out the room and away from the arguments and drunken anecdotes, but that's about all I can say about it. I'd heard about this business, pronounced about seven different ways, for some years now, and expected, given the kind of things people get "into" these days, that it would be high caliber nonsense. My sister-in-law is currently reading, over and over again, and aloud, the "Da Vinci Code". She also tapes every episode of "Friends". But that didn't prepare me for this stupidity. I've never seen a more asinine collection of cheap magic. And did women need yet ANOTHER reason to move furniture around? My business partner, who is from central China, says that only the most abysmal fools believe this junk over there. He is surprised that it would sell here, and said, in addition, when I showed him the book, that it isn't really what they "practice" in China, but an even more dummed down form. He said that one of the good things about Mao & the crazy gov't they have now is that they take a dim view of this hoot. And Chinese Christians, of whom he is one, have no patience with this superstition. ... Read more

Reviews (6)

Magnificent!
I concur with others who reviewed this book and give it top billing! The photos are exquisitely clear and are a good representation of what the city offers. The text is quite complete, although I, too, would have liked to have seen more on Venetian glass. Another fabulous collection for those who love the jewel of a city or for any lover of fine art and architecture.

Venice Art & Architecture
I borrowed these books from a friend. I could not believe my eyes. They are most fantastic! I have ordered a set for myself. I recommend them highly!

Slightly lacking on the art side of things
The book consists of two books in a slipcase, and given its unusually large format and high quality paper, it weighs a ton. The weight is however well substantiated by the contents! The progression is chronological, right from the beginnings of Venice in Volume I, to modern items at the end of Volume II. The architecture side of things is covered by hundreds of top quality photographs of buildings inside and outside, as well as drawings, old photographs, and building plans. As for the art, there are countless clear representations of the masterpieces of the city. Having been in the city a few times, this book adds so much value, firstly by showing me reminders of the places and objects I have seen, and secondly by exposing the interiors of buildings usually closed to the casual visitor.

The reason why I rated this four stars instead of five, is because the book does not give as much coverage to Venice's art museums as I feel it should. Sure, the contents of the art museums were in large part not manufactured by Venetian artists, but all this art now forms part of Venice on account of having been in its museums for decades. Understandably, however, that would probably require another two volumes! Another area that was perhaps not covered sufficiently is that of glass. After all, Venetian glass is world famous, and it deserved more than a short chapter.

Overall however, this is the sort of book one would expect to find in the reference section of a top class library, and yet the price makes it affordable for your own home. It is also very much a scholarly work, filled with details in the text section. It is thus perfect for both those who want to look at the stunning pictures, and those who want to really get into the story behind it all. You will not be disappointed, and I recommend this work without reservation.

venice: art & architecture
a very wonderful book for people who love art and architecture especially for a wonderful and enchanting city such as venice. Through this book one is able to be transported in time and view its art and architecture one that cannot do in even the most dedicated of travelers to this fascinating city.

Stunningly beautiful pictures w/ intelligent writing
This book captures the past and present beauty of Venice, one of the unique cities of Europe. Venetian history is as interesting as its art is beautiful. Both are presented effectively in this gorgeous two-volume oversized book. ... Read more

Reviews (3)

Great Resource for Landscape Architects
Booth and Hiss describe in much detail the design process for residential landscapes. They strike a proper balance between basic design concepts and essential business knowledge. Landscape design students would do well to internalize the process described here, since the book's practical focus is unlikely to be duplicated in their Landscape Architecture curriculum.

Excellent
This book is truly a gem -- it clearly and concisely explains every imaginable aspect of residential landscape design using very straigtforward and easy to understand text and diagrams.

Ignore the fact that this seems to have been written as some sort of textbook for a beginer's course for professional landscape architects. I am an ordinary homeowner and I found the book to be easy and enjoyable to read, and quite educational. I now feel like I understand enough to design a professional quality landscape for my own home.

In case it matters, I own the second edition (Amazon is now selling the third edition). I can only assume that this latest edition is even better than the edition I have.

designing with ease!
what an outstanding book! i discovered this book during a course in garden planning that i'm taking this semester( i'm a student at the faculty of agriculture at the uni of jerusalem, in isreal) and it practically has all that you need to plan a super garden: the illustations are clear to understand, are varriable and give plenty of examples and of course ideas. the solutions to a lot of problems i encountered while trying to plan different spaces and gardens during my course, were solved with ease after looking through this easy to understand book. i dearly recommend any one with even the slightest love or nearness to gardening , design or just plain old mother nature to go out and get this book - it will surely help you get your house and garden design going in the right direction. ... Read more

Reviews (6)

Worth every penny! A must have for anyone who renders
This book takes perspective to another level. I have been taught perspective before with 1, 2, and/ or 3 vanishing points, so I thought that I knew what I was doing. But sometimes I just had to eyeball some of the perspective in my drawings, because objects would look too distorted. This book showed me what I was doing (and taught at art school) that was acceptable but not perfect. Within the first few pages, I easily learned the correct rules to doing perspective from a floor plan at any point of view that I choose. I am a graphic designer for retail interiors and "Perspective for Interior Designers" has made my life so much easier. It's very easy to understand and follow...a must have!

simple to follow, down to the point
For any one who loves perspective drawings rather than CADs, this book, small, simple, straight forward, not redundant at all, gives you many methods and tips for perspective drawings starting with principles and then building some extras. if you follow it to the end, you might not need any other []book. it might need some more effort on producing a second edition, as the examples are really old but they serve the purpose anyway, but you kind of feel that it is not from our time that's all, still it is highly recommended.

Stop struggling
This book's truly great, easy to understand, walking you through lots of examples with graphics that make sense. As an interior design student in my 3rd year, no instructor has thus far been able to teach 2-point perspectives, and the handouts copied from other textbooks were even more confusing. Pile's book is like a breath of fresh air-- walking you through examples (how to place floor plan in relation to drawing, etc.), how to draw circles in perspective, plan perspective, 2-point perspectives, 1-point, it's all here in the simplest, easiest to understand version I've come across. I recommend the book to all my friends at college. Buy this book would be doing yourself a really big favor if you need to draw perspectives.

A life saver
I am an Interior Designer in SAudi Arabia and was asked to teach a drawing class on short notice. No problem! What I didn't realize was Perspectives were part of the course. I went book shopping. In Saudi Arabia that is no easy ordeal, besides there are so many realy bad perspective books out there. Anyway I had an old copy of "Perspective for Interior Designers" and guess what? It is still the best and easiest book out there! It's straight to the point. It is great for beginners. It takes you step by step through constructing a complete One Point, and Two Point Perspective. It also deals with trouble points, such as stairs, ellipses, cones etc... Great Book! Could not have taught the class without it. I ordered this book as an official text book for the " Foundations of Drawing IDES 1303" Class. Two thumbs up.

Very Helpful
Although I have had some background in perspective drawing there are alway situations that may trip me up. I like the way this book demonstrates these concepts from a basic viewpoint without being condescending or overly technical. I have used it to successfully teach perpective drawing to interior design students who had no previous experience. I think this book is useful as well to budding illustrators and artists. ... Read more

Amazon.com

Most people are familiar with the hallmarks of Rachel Ashwell's shabby chic style: fabrics in pastel florals and stripes, chintz sofa covers, antique-store and yard-sale finds turned into home furnishings and accessories. At the heart of this breezy style is a very practical idea: don't buy new--use what you have or can find at thrift stores and secondhand shops and enjoy the old-fashioned charm that only aged pieces acquire. The same idea goes for houses. The Shabby Chic Home shows how an older home can take on a shabby chic appeal by being brought up to date without sacrificing any of its charm.

In The Shabby Chic Home, Ashwell walks readers through the renovation of her own 1920s home, from the purchase of the originally dark and gloomy house through the repainting (using layers and layers of white paint) of the home and the rebirth of the garden, yard, and pool, to the final decorating of the home for herself and her two kids. Along the way, readers receive advice on how to choose from among the thousands of paint colors, how to decide whether to live with the old or buy new, and why remodeling an older home might not be such a good idea. The latter part of the book explains how to add touches of shabby chic style to every room of a home--old or new--for a finished look. The result, shown in dramatic before-and-after pictures, is a home that's comfortable enough for a family to relax in, but still elegant and beautiful.

Don't let the floral patterns and chenille bedspreads fool you: Ashwell's advice throughout is common-sense and economical. For instance, she recommends not wasting your time looking through every decorating option--if you like the first idea, color, or plan well enough, save yourself the time and stress and go with it. She also suggests resisting the immediate desire to throw out the old and bring in the new; try living with things as they are for a while, and you may find yourself surprised at how well you've come to like the funky tile in the bathroom or the noisy glass-door refrigerator. Here lies the appeal of a shabby chic home: sometimes old has a charm and lived-in look that can't be purchased from a home improvement store. --Kris Law ... Read more

Reviews (30)

BEAUTIFUL PHOTOS/LITTLE SUBSTANCE-NOT WORTH THE PRICE
I am a fan of Rachel Ashwell's Shabby Chic program. I tune in every week to get ideas and inspiration as I continue to re-do my own little house. However lovely the photos may be in this book (she turned a gloomy place into a sunny oasis) the kind of written text she offers can be found in an article from Better Homes & Gardens, or other home design magazine. It was quite dissapointing. Her home now has light airy feel to it in general, however, Ms. Ashwell advocates some rather weird ideas, such as choosing her make-up products for their packaging (so that they fit in with the decor!). What's up with that? This is just one example of some of the impractical advise in this book. I will keep the book because the photos are lovely and have provided me with inspiration for my own plans, however few. Ms. Ashwell' home looks lovely but does not look like a place the average person would have as a primary home (the walls are wooden planks!). This looks more like a vacation cabin than a primary residence. If you like coffee-table books with lots of beatiful photos, then buy this, if not buy a home design magazine at the newstand and save some bucks.

Third Time's the Charm!
Rachel Ashwell knows what works for her--white, cream, pink and green--and several trips to the fabulously overloaded flea markets of Southern California. Fans of her funky but glamorous style certainly won't be disappointed by this latest addition to the Shabby Chic shrine, and the funny thing is, other decorating fans will enjoy this, too. Ms. Ashwell tends to become a bit annoying with her rules of white and pink, but I think this book shows she's relaxing a bit, allowing turquoise and cerise into her palette as well. The Malibu house she found for her family is just plain fantastic, with lots of charm and happy personality. The pool and garden areas are just the place you'd like to flop down and spend a lifetime, and her shots of her daughter's room show a nice mix of mom's and daughter's compromising for one another. Where, however, is her son in all this? I think he was mentioned less than half a dozen times! Don't boys fit into the Shabby Chic scheme, too? One word of caution with this book: although it is far more accessible than her last two, readers who don't live in as amenable a climate as Ms. Ashwell might find it a bit hard to take. All that white would sure get old in northern climates come February. If you cannot afford to have wholesale flowers delivered weekly to your home, or don't feel the need to match your shampoo to your decorating colorways, you might feel a bit perplexed by this book!

Very Disappointed
Browsing the free pages shown on Amazon I thought I was going to get a book with lots of Photos of "shabby" style furniture and tips on how to get the look.Instead what I got was a book that reads like a 'day in the life of' story.I didnt want a biography.This book takes you along on the authors trips to assorted flea markets and whatnot and tells you what she bought and where she is going to use it.Not at all what I expected to get.

I'm workin' toward this house...
Except, mine will be on the Indiana or Illinois coast of Lake Michigan. I love Rachel Ashwell's frugal, classy style. She gives you a truck load of inspiration and understands empowering people to design, no matter if they are wealthy or shopping in ritzy alleys or at estate sales for goods. The results create sentimental elegance. If nothing else, you learn the power of white paint and good hard do it yourselfing. This book takes you there and Rachel does an excellent job of pulling you into her home. She leaves nothing out and the photographer deserves enormous credit. Buy it or check it out at the library today.

Somewhat interesting...but overall disappointing
I was really excited about getting this book....I was hoping to get something that inspired me to find neat design solutions in the mundane and everday. You know...make something out of nothing.

Well, there WERE some good ideas like that in this book, but I felt that unless you were a HUGE fan of flowers and girly prints you wouldn't really find much of use in this book. Granted, it's probably a personal style conflict that made me return this book, but if you can find this book used and for a good price, go for it. Not worth the full price. ... Read more

Reviews (15)

Good but written for Architects & I'm not..
This is a good book but it is written for architects. I'm a mechanical engineer. Also, it basically has only one project that you progress through from beginning to end of book. I took a que from a previous reviewer and checked out "shrockpublishing.com" and their books worked better for me. (Exercise workbook for Beg. AutoCAD) Easy to follow, 30 separate lessons, includes many exercises and for all disciplines not just architecture. Plus I emailed the author with questions and she answered me.

Simplifies AUTOCAD 2000 for you!
This book is excellent for architects who want to learn Autocad 2000, and do not have prior experience, as it says. Even with experience it shows different and more efficient ways of drawing architectural drawings in AutoCAD, especially if one is mostly self taught; it shows a variety of commands and their functions through one example that is developed in detail through the book. Even basic things like how to draw a wall and elevations can seem daunting but the instructions go through all that very well. The book could have benefited with more bullet points and less verbiage and more examples. However, the book is very instructive and walks one through the steps very well.

get the book
Iv'e had the book for two days now and am on page 243,. Very easy to use (almost too good of a job explaining)
This book IS for begginers ,as the title says but i went from scatching my head to doing my own projects in a day

Need a disk for practicing
I am a new user and is the first time to explore autocad .I bought autocad 2000 of David Frey, but without the disk I can not use it. I need help, I am appreciated for those who would help me how to get a disk to apply this book.
Again, thank you very much

Autocad Step by Step forEveryone
Autocad can be a nightmare! This book makes it very easy to follow
each step, and the author explains every step with a diagram so
you will have no problem understanding it. It's a fantastic
book for everyone who wants to learn Autocad 2000 and doesn't want
to invest a lot of money. ... Read more

Book Description

AutoCAD 2004 Instructor is intended for instructor-lead instruction and self-instruction in AutoCAD software. AutoCAD is the market leader for all CAD software and is used by nearly two million students and professionals in architecture, engineering, construction, and design. AutoCAD 2004 Instructor makes it easy to upgrade from previous versions of AutoCAD by the use of a 2004 bar in the margin that highlights the new features.

Developed from teaching techniques used in an authorized AutoCAD Training Center and in instruction for engineering colleges, AutoCAD 2004 Instructor covers all features and capabilities of AutoCAD. The text is command-oriented so chapters are centered around groups of related commands. This feature makes the text very effective as a reference text. The chapters are structured in a practical/pedagogical sequence beginning with instruction in general procedures for using the computer interface, setting up and creating drawings, and then progressing to advanced features such as dimensioning, special drawing applications and AutoCAD features, three-dimensional modeling and rendering, and software customization.

McGraw-Hill is proud to be one of the first and few publishers to have a text on AutoCAD 2004. ... Read more

Book Description

Reviews (2)

It's a classic
I wonder how Elsie De Wolfe could write this book in the early 20th century. She's got so much taste! Her book is written in a very amusing way,but it really teaches you how to decorte your home in good taste and with style.Very usefull if you already know something about interior decoration. Besides, her ideas apply to our days, which I find, simply amazing.
A great book, written by a wonderfuly stylish lady.

what a joy
Elsie De Wolfe is acknowleged as the first woman to make a fortune as a decorator and can be called the first life style maven of the 20th century. Her opinions on home decor were eagerly seized upon by millions of aspirational women around the country. She wrote The House in Good Taste 90 years ago but it's just as fresh and suitable now as it was then.

I can't bring myself to agree with her on patchwork quilts, lace curtains or rocking chairs but she's absolutely correct in her advice on wallpaper, paint and apartments. It's amazing how much this delightful and informative book still has to teach us. ... Read more