Book Description

Charles Garnier (Paris 1825-1898). The eclectism of this French architect enables him to be placed within the Second Imperial style. His works can be considered as archetypal examples of Neo-classical Renaissance and baroque architecture. His greatest undertaking was the Opera House in Paris (1861-1875), highly relevant for the subsequent development of architecture in the nineteenth century. The overall effect is harmonious but different styles and decorations are combined together through sculptures, frescos and marble. In 1900 the opera was moved to the Bastille and since then Garnier’s building has been home to the Paris Opera Ballet Company. The fame of this construction was such that it even managed to push other noteworthy works, such as the Vila Eilenroc (1867), into the background. ... Read more

Book Description

Matter and Mind in Architecture was the theme of the 7th Alvar Aalto Symposium, thus the title of the book documenting the symposium. It's a theme that might have been construed as somewhat introspective, perhaps out of touch with the present state of commerce, but its purpose was to instigate a discussion of materials and meanings, matter and content, and to encourage architects to participate in the fundamental problems facing the world. Because architects ought no longer be bystanders in a world of intensifying environmental problems, Matter and Mind in Architecture encourages self-scrutiny.

The contributing writers, all important representatives in their respective fields of philosophy, music, literature and architecture include Kazuyo Sejima, Vittorio Gregotti, Wilfried Wang, Juan Navarro Baldeweg and John Patkau.

Music CD included. ... Read more

Book Description

Building Ideas An Introduction to Architectural Theory This book is an essential text for students of architecture and related disciplines, satisfying the demand for an accessible introduction to the major theoretical debates in contemporary architecture. Written in a lucid and user-friendly style, the book also acts as a guide and companion volume to the many primary theoretical texts recently made available in reprinted collections. Whilst architectural monographs, collections of building precedents and polemical manifestoes are growing more and more numerous, Building Ideas is the first book to provide an introduction to such a broad range of issues in architectural theory. This text therefore serves to fill a widening gap between the everyday practice of architecture and the often bewildering field of academic theoretical debate. Beginning with a general introduction to the field of architectural theory, covering the interface between philosophy and technology in the production and interpretation of buildings, the book presents the major theoretical positions in contemporary architecture through a series of thematically structured chapters. Each chapter deals with a specific approach to the theory and criticism of architecture by presenting a series of related buildings as illustrations of a key theoretical position, as well as setting this position in a cultural and historical context. Under the five broad headings of 'Architecture as Engineering - The Technological Revolution', 'Architecture as Art - Aesthetics in Philosophy', 'The Return of the Body - Phenomenology in Architecture', 'Systems of Communication - Structuralism and Semiotics' and 'Politics and Architecture - The Marxist Tradition', the book presents a wide but critical survey of the central questions in the current theoretical debate. Providing the theoretical tools necessary for an understanding of the history of philosophies and technologies in architecture, this book is essential reading for undergraduate architectural theory courses as well as a first point of reference for anyone wishing to understand the complex connections between architecture and related fields of cultural enquiry. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

a must read for new students in architecture
I think "architectural theory" is the most interesting and important subject to me as an architectural student. It is also a very difficult subject, i always have the feeling that i have to learn more. There are a lot of names to remember, sometimes background knowledges( usually of history, philosophy, or maybe fine arts) are needed to understand certain points that great theorists made. One feel quite lost in this sea of words, don't know how and where to start learning more about this treasure.

With this book you don't have to have too much prior knowledge in other related fields i mentioned above to make sense of the author's point. It helps you to have more insight into how architectural theory comes about in practice. This book clarified a lot of things that I wasn't too sure about after reading "big books" by famous theorists ( They are often difficult for an average student like me to understand.) Written in plain english, this book is easy to read. It would have saved me a lot of time if I had a chance to read it when I was in first year. I recommend it to all students embarking their architectural studies.

The extensive reference list in the appendix was a big bonus. ... Read more

Book Description

This is at once a compendium for designers and an entertaining essay on the architecture of Asia's most glamorous tropical island by one of its foremost admirers. Landscape and architectural designer Made Wijaya draws on his extensive photographic archives, compiled over the past 30 years, to present a visual study of Balinese architecture: its origins, elements, variations, and vagaries.

The book opens with an overview of Balinese architecture in its human context--the village. It then looks at the basic elements of Balinese architecture--the walled courtyard and the pavilion. Further chapters examine building materials, the Balinese love of ornamentation and the architectural hybrids resulting from other ethnic influences. Progressing through the book, Bali's intricate built landscape becomes legible and ever more surprising.

With a sharp eye for trends, and passionate opinions about how Balinese design principles should be applied, Wijaya enhances his survey of traditional Balinese architecture with examples of its adaptation in modern private houses and boutique hotels on the island. In addition to Wijaya's own archive photographs, the book is illustrated with the work of internationally acclaimed artists; specialist photographers including Tim Street-Porter and Rio Helmi; and drawings by Chang Huai-Yan and Deni Chung.

Designers will find Architecture of Bali useful as a source book for materials, built form, ornamentation and ideas about the use of space. Lovers of Bali will welcome its documentation of a rapidly changing world. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

A Masterpiece
I am Balinese and grew up surrounded by Balinese architecture in my home village of Ubud. I have also built extensively - my restaurant, shops, houses and villas. I love Balinese architectural forms and materials.

I am very happy with this book. It is a tremendous contribution to the subject and it is surprising that so little was written before. It is lavishly illustrated with beautiful photographs - many taken by Made Wijaya himself - and sadly many of the buildings no longer exist. Thank goodness, there is now a record of them.

It is a coffee table book - but it's much more than that - the text is detailed, well researched and easy to follow.

I have no hesitation in recommending it. ... Read more

Book Description

What constitutes a high-rise building? A high-rise is, in fact, any building with more than 9 storeys and not just those striking skyscrapers which shape modern city skylines. In the past architects who designed such structures used to be the exception but in the last 10 years more and more architectural offices have begun to focus on this type of building. However, the sheer complexity of designing and planning the construction of a high-rise as opposed to other building types requires a wealth of specialized experience and expertise.The High-Rise Manual is the first comprehensive reference work on this subject. All relevant aspects of such an undertaking are examined in detail by some 25 specialist authors. Each step is extensively documented including the initial project planning, the building organisation, the laying of the foundations, the supporting structure, the building technology, the office design, and the Facility Management. Theoretical contributions present the basic principles of selected topics revealing how the task is viewed from the different perspectives. With countless illustrations, plans, and CAD drawings, this volume highlights the basic principles and details vital in building high-rise structures. ... Read more

Book Description

The Facades Handbook is a textbook for practitioners of architecture, as well as structural and environmental engineers who wish to broaden their study beyond the information provided in the “Walls” chapter of the Modern Construction Handbook. The six chapters examine facades from the standpoint of the primary material used in their construction, from metal to glass, concrete, masonry, plastics and timber. Each set of three double page spreads explains a specific form of construction which is accompanied by drawn and annotated details. Throughout the book, built examples by high profile designers are used to illustrate specific principles. As is the case in the Modern Construction Handbook, the techniques described can be applied internationally. ... Read more

Book Description

Travel the globe with Ralph Rapson to some of the world's most exotic places. Stroll sun-baked Casablanca with its colorful street markets. Climb to the top of Brazil's fabled Sugarloaf Mountain for a bird's eye view of Rio de Janeiro and the white sweep of Copacabana Beach. Visit some of the world's most remarkable cathedrals, mosques, temples, and synagogues. Linger in Paris with its scene-stealing vistas of Notre Dame and Sacre Coeur. Journey to India to gaze in awe at the Taj Mahal bathed in moonlight. ... Read more

Book Description

The Boston Design Index is a lush, 500-page resource which features professionals in the luxury home building and design industries, including contractors, architects, interior designers and hospitality specifiers. The book features over 400 pages of color work from the finest sources in the business and is supplemented by 100 pages of listings that allow professionals to interact with one another quickly and easily. The Design Index will help you find the right professional for your next project, the way professionals find each other.

The Design Index is the premier sourcebook designed to help professionals contact their peers in other disciplines that they work with—every day, all day, all year long! The Design Indexes were created to help professionals find what they are looking for—other professionals. This beautiful, spiral-bound directory contains over 15,000 listings and over 500 pages; most are full-color pages. Each ad showcases the wonderful services and products these companies offer. This Design Index uniquely features professionals in all Luxury Home Design and Commercial Build areas: Architects • Residential and Commercial Construction • Interior Designers & Office Planners • Landscaping • Kitchen & Bath • Custom Woodworking, Metalworking, Hardware, Glass & Metal • Floor Coverings • Marble, Stone & Tile • Residential Furnishings • Office and Contract Furnishings • Art & Antiques • Home Theater & Security Systems • Media, Creative and Computer Support ... Read more

Book Description

• Dozens of ideas for creating, designing and furnishing relaxing living areas outdoors

• Tips for using indoor design elements outdoors-including rich fabric mixes, complex color palettes, and lighting, art and architectural details

• Inspiring photos accompany instructive text to empower many to create and decorate their own outdoor living niches

• Chapters discuss living and dining areas, kitchens and baths, sleep, work and play areas, architectural elements, and decorative features

• Advice for buying products and technology-grills, lighting, fire pits, and fireplaces, to flooring materials, fabrics, furniture, and more ... Read more

Book Description

Rooted in real world observations, this book questions the concept of tradition - whether contemporary globalization will prove its demise or whether there is a process of simultaneous ending and renewing. ... Read more

Book Description

Follow the progression of the American home with this latest creation from the Tad Burness studio. This one of a kind collection features historical, exciting, and beautiful home s from 1880 to 1980. Each yearly section presents various styles of houses, kitchens, baths, floor plans, light fixtures, and new developments. Many of the time periods include detailed advertisements with original prices, competing household appliances, and new fads. Representative regions and styles include the kit houses of the early 1900s, Victorian-style homes, and Mediterranean looks. The wealth of information and detail will pique the curiosity of those interested in home restoration and retro design, as well as architects, real estate agents, interior designers, and members of historical societies.

*Covers vintage houses, kitchens, baths, floor plans, light fixtures, and more

*Tracks US home design developments and trends from 1880 to 1980 ... Read more

Reviews (1)

See inside your neighbor's house.
An amazing resource book if you are interested in the American home from 1880. Tad Burness started in the sixties collecting illustrations, photos and ads of anything to do with domestic housing and this book is the result of his endeavours. You need to know though that the book is essentially visual and 2500 images are shown in a scrapbook format, with many of them irregular shapes, where a house, for instance, has been cut out from its background,

Each crammed page has between nine to fourteen pictures (plenty in color) which could include six or seven exterior house photos or illustrations, possibly taken from period ads, three or four interiors (also from period ads) mostly kitchens and bathrooms, maybe a floor plan or some period ads for a heating system, door handles or property. Many of these items have a few handwritten words from the author. I rather liked these very busy, crammed pages but I could see that they might not be to everybody's taste.

This large size paperback is a fascinating overview of a hundred years of American housing but if you want to see pictorial books with a more formal presentation have a look at these. 'Houses by Mail', by Katherine Stevenson and Ward Jandl, a picture and floor plan of the hundreds of styles sold by Sears Roebuck from 1908 to 1940. For domestic interiors of the fifties and sixties check out two books by Eugene Moore, 'Interior 1950 Solutions' and 'Interior 1960 Solutions', both use several hundred room set photos taken from Armstrong flooring ads. For a really comprehensive study of past decades the Decorative Art series by Charlotte and Peter Fiell published by Taschen can't be beat. ... Read more

Book Description

This book helps the commercial designer successfully achieve the complex synthesis between base building construction and tenant FF&E (furniture, furnishings, and equipment). ... Read more

Reviews (1)

Very Good Reference
This is an excellent reference for Interior Designers, with detailed technical information. I am currently studying interior design and even though I have read only a couple pages, it has helped me tremendously with my tests. I can imagine it will be a good reference for people who have finished and need to refer back to detailed technical information for interiors. ... Read more

Reviews (2)

AN ASTONISHING BOOK...
As a confirmed Firenzephile,I thought I had already purchased and read all the current books on this perfect city, but have now discovered that one of the very best was still waiting for me.

With R. W. B. Lewis' The City of Florence as the best book with which to prepare for a trip to Florence and the Eyewitness Guide to Florence and Tuscany as the best travel guide, I would suggest this very pleasing, square volume as the other book to take with you. ( I am in danger of getting into list-mania here!)

This book is arranged by sections of the city, beginning with a fold-out map of each area followed by photographs, diagrams and essays on each notable monument and what it houses. Furthermore there are interesting and manageable additions concerning history, architectural terms, information on artists, other notable persons, a time line and more.

I have lived in Florence and can assure you that the photographs are splendid and the information inclusive,well researched and concise. While certainly being perhaps the world's most intimate major city, it is also one of overwhelming richness and density (this is why there is included a charming essay on Stendahl Syndrome-don't miss it!). To have made so much information manageable is quite a remarkable feat.

Great Litte Book!
A great little book chock full of beautiful color photographs on every page! On a tour of Italy, little time was spent in Florence, and this book clearly showed me what I missed. Now I know I will HAVE to go back. A great value. ... Read more

Amazon.com

Charles Rennie Mackintosh (1868-1928) was and remains the most distinguished figure of what was known as the Glasgow School. An architect, decorator, graphic artist, painter and furniture designer, Mackintosh was known for combining the prosaic with the sumptuous, the severe with the romantic. This collection of essays examines his work in relation to the character of Glasgow and other artistic developments of the era. It also considers his contributions, and those of his wife and associates, to the cultural vibrancy of their city. ... Read more

Book Description

Is the first book to explore the ethnic derivations of American buildings with such a broad scope. The contributions of 22 groups are highlighted in this fascinating overview that provides an important new way of looking at the buildings that surround us. Groups covered include Native Americans, African-Americans, Belgians, Germans, Mexicans, the Irish and Japanese, among others. ... Read more

Book Description

As ever, the development of the city's economic, political and cultural life can be read in the new buildings going up all over the capital. After the excitement and farce of London's millennium buildings (The London Eye, Peckham Library and the Tate Modern on the one hand; the Dome and the infamous swaying Thames footbridge on the other), our rulers have built themselves one of the world's most lavish office blocks; two new skyscrapers are nearing completion at Canary Wharf—once among the capital's most derided properties, now an astonishingly desirable address; industrial buildings are renovated to house new-media firms and the people who own or work in them; and occasionally funding is found for a school or public leisure facility. This fifth edition of London: A Guide to Recent Architecture brings the picture up to date. 150 b/w photographs. ... Read more

Book Description

This conceptual introduction to architectural structures covers all the basic structural principles and terms, explains how to use statistics of equilibrium formulae to calculate beam reactions, and employs illustrations and multi-exposure model photographs to provide a compelling overall guide to structural behavior. Also distinguishing this guide from many others on the market are its case studies and useful preliminary sizing data. ... Read more

Reviews (2)

best intro to architectural structures
Excellent intro to architectural structures. Strong on principles and concepts with numerous case studies; illustrations (by the author) alone are worth the price; expensive.

understanding how structure work with architecture
i am an architect. my professor has translated this book in farsi for introduce this book to his students. i think this book is very useful for architects, because they can understand structures good with many good examples. ... Read more

Book Description

Help in handling a common problem in architectural education and practice: getting the job done on time. This book addresses the special time management issues that confront designers. It offers students and professionals guidance in recognizing and understanding these problems and developing effective strategies for overcoming them. Illustrated with lighthearted drawings, it includes exercises aimed at exploring each designer's personal situation and reinforcing good practice. 120 line drawings. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

Must read for design students and professionals
An extremely lucid and entertaining manual on a subject that can be tedious. Humorously illustrated by the author, it includes a good summary of pitfalls in the design process. This book can go a long towards meeting design deadlines, while still having a life outside the design studio. ... Read more