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Architecture Book Recommendations

Dan Rainer

Member
Joined
Mar 28, 2024
Messages
57
Location
Georgia, USA
Format
Multi Format
I've always been photographically drawn to architecture and the unique essence of man-made spaces. But I have no formal understanding of architecture and often feel like I'm blindly groping at my chosen subject matter. Are there any good books, either for the photographer or the layperson, that serve as a solid introduction to architecture?
 
Must reads... Christopher Alexander: The Timeless Way of Building, A Pattern Language, The Oregon Experience...a great trilogy of books.
 
Here is a YouTube playlist of hour-long PBS animations based on the books of David Macaulay. Topics include Cathedrals, Pyramids, etc.


I rented these as VHS with my father growing up. They're very enjoyable to watch. His books are also available if you prefer.
 
I'm not sure what you're looking for.

For general history of architecture can't go wrong with several by DK, all with superior illustrations, concise on each part, great overall, like THIS one ..

But then there are other ways of looking at it, like THIS which focus on engineering side of things

Then there is THIS

There are many great books on architecture. I tend to check out DK offerings first on most topics as if the subject proves not as interesting, it remains a good shelf piece to go back to at leisure any time.
 
Go to a college or university book store and find the architecture second. Pick one of the introductory books on the history of architecture. My architecture books as so old that they are out of date.
 
Not a book, but rather, a series of excellent videos: Arte Architectures. Some episodes are blocked, but perhaps this one is still viewable.
 
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Head to a library before you start throwing money around. Or, if like many of us books are a "sickness" for you, start with a survey book or 2 then pare down to your preferred style and get specific titles from there.


https://www.abebooks.com/Case-Study-Houses-Smith-Elizabeth-Taschen/32304133254/bd

Frank Lloyd Wright: The Masterworks by Pfeiffer, Bruce Brooks: good (1993) | Zoom Books East

Free Shipping - ISBN: 9780847817153 - Hardcover - Rizzoli - 1993 - Condition: good - Book is in good condition and may include underlining highlighting and minimal wear. The book can also include "From the library of" labels. May not contain miscellaneous items toys, dvds, etc. . We offer 100%...
www.abebooks.com


You can get really specific once you narrow your interests down;


The Japanese House: A Tradition for Contemporary Architecture by Engel, Heinrich: Poor 4to Hardcover (1983) 11th Printing. | Chamblin Bookmine

11th Printing. - 4to Hardcover - Charles E. Tuttle Company - 1983 - Condition: Poor - Very Good - 295p. Interior is unmarked with b/w photos and illustrations throughout. Binding is tight although faintly canted, hinges are securely attached. Grey cloth boards are soiled on surfaces, as...
www.abebooks.com
 
Look for books by Julius Shulman and Ezra Stoller if you want the classics. I have a few by The Arkansas Office (Tim Hursley). Reinhart Wolf knew how to look at Skyscrapers and Castles.

 
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If you want to learn how it was done in the late 20th century, I'll recommend "Photographing Buildings Inside and Out" by Norman McGrath.
I learned a great deal studying with Norman (as have many others). Of course it's a lot different now, but if you want to shoot architecture on film, that book will be a big help.
 
Agreed! I studied Norman's book back in the day.

Just watched this and enjoyed it.

 
"Architecture - Form, Space and Order" by Francis D.K. Ching is an excellent 'modern' textbook on the subject.
400 pages profusely illustrated with detailed line-drawings and in-depth text. Used copies are dirt-cheap.
 
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