5 comments about Building Codes Illustrated: A Guide to Understanding the 2006 International Building Code (Building Codes Illustrated).

1. This came as a companion with the Building Code book that we purchased and we are finding it very useful in our library. It came in good time and I would recommend buying.



2. This text does a very good job of breaking the code down into understandable chunks. The addition of graphics helps to understand the verbiage. It is probably best suited to architectural students rather than construction workers, since it spends a lot of time on big picture issues: when do you need to sprinkle, where do you need fire dampers, how many square feet are allowed for Type III construction, etc. Still, it provides the reasoning behind why architects design as they do, so it's still very useful to the non-architect.
   
   Don't go near the code without it.



3. Ching did a great job again! The line drawings clarified the codes and made it easy to understand.



4. This book is a great tool to use during the design of a building. It applies more to commercial, but is also useful to residential buildings. Using this book will sharpen your code skills and avoid some costly design errors. You will need to have a copy of the 2006 IBC at your disposal if you are going to use this book in any serious way. It is organized in a logical format, but you can easily skip around and cover critical sections. The only thing that I think should be added to this book is a checklist for each type of construction that could be used for plan review. All of my work is in residential so a checklist would help me focus on the pertinent sections of the book.



5. Great visual graphics which aid in NC Building Codes along with clear explainations

5 comments about Architectural Graphic Standards.

1. A standard reference work on building components and design considerations - with many excellent diagrams. Although the book has a technical focus, a little perspective on the constructability and suitablity of componets and systems for specific applications would add value.
   
   Also, some additonal treatment of new chemical related technologies that are now mainstream, such as chemical anchors and carbon fiber reinforcing, would be helpful.
   
   Choosing Project Success - A Guide for Building Professionals



2. The new version of Architectural Graphic Standards is an impossible book to use. It reflects a component approach to putting a building together instead of looking at the totality of a building. The Eleventh Edition omits basic information, for example, like the exhaustive catalogue of material and electrical symbols found in previous additions. The book now has an attitude that follows the mantra of the American Institute of Architects with regard to issues like sustainability and visitability. Any architect with a conscience incorporates these values into actual practice, so to have whole sections on these subjects is like preaching to the converted. The book is really an editorial snow job on the profession. The metal plate on the front cover is truly pretentious while the pages inside have been physically downgraded to an almost tissue-like quality.
   
   By changing the format of the book so radically from the previous organization (without any kind of cross referencing) of the construction divisions that guided the profession for decades, looking for information is like looking for a needle in a haystack.
   
   If, as a practicing architect with 30 years experience, I find the book problematic then I would not even want to fathom how a young practitioner could wade through this disorganized, inadequate mess. If Ramsey and Sleeper, the original authors, saw this book today I think they would be rolling in their graves.



3. For over 70 years, architects have been using a valuable reference book, "Architectural Graphic Standards."
   
   "Architectural Graphic Standards" (11th edition) is organized roughly per the UniFormat(r) classification system, i.e., by function instead of by product or material. This new edition has expanded and new content covering contemporary issues, such as LEED standards, green materials, sustainable construction, recyclability, new building systems, structural technologies, universal, and accessible design strategies, computing technologies including Building Information Modeling (BIM) and CAD/CAM, etc. It may take you a while to get used to this new format, but the information is still valuable and current.
   
   "Architectural Graphic Standards" has 1120 pages (9.7 x 11.6 inches large format) and numerous line drawings. It is a must-have for architects, landscape architects and urban planners, interior designers, engineers or any other building-related design professionals.



4. I'm really disappointed to find that my big, beatiful new edition of Architectural Graphic Standards does not contain everything that previous editions did. I was so happy to have my very own copy and now will have to also buy a 10th edition to get everything. Check it out before you buy!



5. I received the new Graphic Standards today. It is filled with lots of additional information. If one were to take the time and look through the whole book, they would find almost everything they are looking for. The layout is different from previous versions. All one has to do is re-familarize their self with the new layout and it won't be confusing. Oh yeah, and it gives great examples.
   
   Thanks!

5 comments about Time-Saver Standards for Interior Design and Space Planning, 2nd Edition.

1. Besides just being large and heavy, this book is filled with great information. For a beginner, it can be overwhelming, but it is definitely a book every designer should have on their bookshelf. It provides guidelines, dimensions, and tons of illustrations for creating the proper space. The book acknowledges designing for handicap, retail, hospitality and residential spaces. It reviews the standard sizes for furniture pieces, ceiling heights etc...Once you find what your looking for (through all of those pages), you definitely get good direction from the information provided on it.



2. I am a last semester interior design student and just bought this book-I wish I had had it from the start! The book has nice sections on historical periods and furniture dimensions, residential, office, hospitality, retail, health care, banking and public restroom spaces, with lots and lots of plans, elevations and sections for each category. There is also a general reference section at the back of the book with lots of tables (space planning, wall covering or yardage amounts, as well as electrical and math tables). As well there is a nice colored section of wood and marble samples-a real time saver indeed!



3. Very comprehensive source for specifications and details that are relivent to interior design. Not sure yet about the ebook.
   Ed



4. I purchased this text as a required reference material for a college interior design course. It is packed with useful information and I anticipate referring to it often. Also, the Amazon price is much less than the campus bookstore!



5. While there is a lot of information in this book, most of it is too small to read or see easily. Many of the drawings are too small and unclear. Also, the material is not presented in a way that makes it easy to access. I will be looking elsewhere for the information. I sent mine back in spite of the shipping cost.

5 comments about Materials, Structures, and Standards: All the Details Architects Need to Know But Can Never Find.

1. This book is so helpful in my studies. I would highly recommend it to anyone in the profession, or students trying to get an edge in class.



2. architectural graphic standard ALWAYS checked out in the library? and all you need to know is how wide the turning radius needs to be for this stupid parking lot? yea i've been there billions of times. my friends at school all started buying this book as a quick reference and it has great information inside. it's by no means exhaustive, but it definitely has enough to get a student by. the information is written and organized in a very accessible way. i highly recommend this book



3. I purchased this book because I had experience borrowing a copy of a friend. It helps when you want to keep working, but need to get specifics. This was you don't have to fish through the Internet for standards, they are easily available in the book.



4. The person who reviewed this book and gave it two stars was definitely unaware of what the book was meant to be. I would NEVER replace graphic standards or any other set of architectural data. However, it is a WONDERFUL quick reference guide for people just starting out in the field. It gives some easy ADA info, some AIA sheet numbering, and other easy to use reference material. I agree with the person that said an architecture student and intern would get the most use out of it. That said, it should be on every student's and intern's studio desk.



5. I am a licensed architect, and have been in professional practice now for 15 years. I thought this book was going to offer me some of the common reference tables I need, or perhaps some of the general ADA measurements that must be exact, but it fell well short of my expectations.
   
   It's not really suitable for anyone in the design profession, and I think much of the book is littered with detailing and CAD standards that are not necessary for your normal do-it-yourselfer or home builder. I think it may be appropriate for architecture students, however, it really does not have sufficient information to instruct students, and much of the material selection information and detailing is flat elementary.

5 comments about Human Dimension and Interior Space: A Source Book of Design Reference Standards.

1. I'm currently in my second year (of three) studying interior design. This book was recommended by a teacher, and I must say...it is WAY better than any of the other textbooks we are forced to buy. If you're looking for a very pictorial book that is easy to read and understand, and that is comprehensive in the information it covers, this is for you! Great for students, I've recommended this to all my fellow classmates.



2. This book is one-of-a-kind. You can't find a better resource for human factors/ergonomic spacial measurements than this book right here. It was a required textbook for my college-level human factors class. I have used it as a reference *many times* outside of this class. Definitely buy it if this description meets your needs!



3. Its a good book for human dimensions in interior spaces. A must if you are a student or an interior designer. Its full of information.



4. The book was copyrighted in 1979, and a lot of the data was fairly old even then. People are only a little taller (about 1" over the period when most of this data was taken, around 1960), but 25 or so pounds heavier. This is pretty significant when you're working with seating. It's great for its time, far better than nothing, but the body dimensions need revisiting. Also, bariatric furniture development, and I'm sure other areas for very large people, need body dimensions of people who are well above even the 99th percentile. There's no need to stop there just because you've covered nearly everyone. There's an increasing number of people in the country that really needs design data for people up to and even over 500 lbs.



5. I honestly think this is one of the best books in my large Interior Design related library. It is extensive, yet to the point. It explains human dimension from a point you would never imagine ever existed or was in any way important. Provides very useful measurements, detailed drawings, and space planning suggestions - great resource!

5 comments about Interior Graphic Standards.

1. I got this book well before I thought I was going to and it was in amazing condition :)



2. If I had to keep but one reference book on my shelf as a Professional Interior Designer, this would be the book. It contains in-depth and well-formatted information on virtually every subject in the field, and the graphics are outstanding. One of the authors, Maryrose McGowan, is a powerhouse and has done a remarkable job with this guide and I hope she comes out with many other useful books to advance the profession. This book has quickly replaced several books I previously owned that attempted to do what this book has done with great simplicity, completeness, and accuracy.
   
   The chapters are well-organized, the graphics are abundant, clear, and easy-to-understand, and they contain information from all ends of the spectrum. The price tag of the book is steep, but well worth the investment. Save your pennies and make a point of buying this book, or look for used versions as they come available on Amazon.com. You will be glad to have this book in your collection!



3. This book is very helpful for upcoming designers. It gives you standard codes for everything you could imagine. Very helpful when doing my design projects.



4. If your an Interior Designer or practicing to be one this book should be amongst the many in your personal library. The details are well written and displayed.



5. I've purchased this book for 2 companies that I've worked for and for myself as well. I am an Interior Designer and find Interior Graphic Standards to be extremly resourceful and helpful when it comes to design & planning. It covers a wide range of topics such as basic electrical, mechanical, accessibility standards, plumbing fixture considerations; material finish's, door frames/types, acoustics, etc. and provides enough information on each subject so that you understand what is required to plan. My only complaint is that in many cases, measurements and dimensions are not shown where you would think they should exist. That being said, I highly recommend the book for people of all levels in this industry.

5 comments about Interior Graphic and Design Standards.

1. This book is out-of-date, poorly written, poorly organized, and a complete waste of one's money, time, and effort. The graphics are inconsistent and poorly done, and it is a nightmare trying to make sense of technical information provided by Ms. Reznikoff.
   
   This reference has been eclipsed in light-years by Maryrose McGowan's book "Interior Design Graphic Standards", which is now considered THE reference book of choice and the Gold Standard in its class. Use your money wisely and opt to purchase McGowan's publication instead of this one.



2. This book is a necessary staple for every Interior Designer's book collection



3. I recently purchased this book while taking a Commercial Interior Design course as part of my Interior Design degree. I found the book to be very helpful in many aspects of commercial design and specification. Also, my boss, who is a licensed Interior Designer and has been practicing for about 10 years has a copy of the book that she used while in college; she refers to it as her design reference Bible, haha. Although some of the material (such as codes) may be out of date due to the everchanging laws and standards, overall this book is filled with valuable information. A must-have for all interior designers!



4. A great book for interior designers. Serves as a great refrence. A must add to any library collection!



5. A very informative and usefull book for all designers.

4 comments about Architectural Graphic Standards for Residential Construction: The Architect's and Builder's Guide to Design, Planning, and Construction Details (Ramsey/Sleeper Architectural Graphic Standards Series).

1. This book is an excellent reference book for use in designing, planning, and building a new house or remodeling an existing one. Whenever I plan on doing something on the house, I double check with this reference before finishing my designs and plans. It's a must own book for serious do-it-yourselfers.



2. Although these editions change little, this review is based upon AGS 10th Ed. & AGSRC 2003.
   
   
   Negative:
   This is bascially a regurgitation of the more complete Architectural Graphics Standards, distilled to a "residential" focus but appears as volumous because some details have been photo-enlarged (in poor-average quality). Few, if any new residential details/information has been provided.
   
   Positive:
   Those ONLY interested in residential construction and NOT requiring a full brace of ALL details will find this quite a good value - compare its price to Architectural Graphics Standards.
   
   Recommendation:
   Anyone in construction should have one, but not both of these books as a prime resource. The content does improve every year, although some years it's like watching grass grow.
   
   Challenge:
   IF there are numerous portions of the Residential version that are unique and new to it, exclusive of passages in the larger AGS version - I would really appreciate a review that contains how to locate these passages, as I've spent enough time trying to find them. If enough of these exist, it would give thought of updating this resource once in awhile.



3. Experienced readers will benefit from its brief summaries and drawings covering the broadest range of topics imaginable. Some economizing is evident in the paper and printing quality, some of the drawings look 50 years old, but there is lots of reference information, like span tables, solar position data, etc. Probably not the last word on every topic, but still worth consulting.



4. Following in the terrific legacy of the benchmark Architectural Graphic Standards book, this edition clearly makes building for residences an easier task. I've found innumerable details that I've used in my residential practice on a daily basis, details not found in other reference books. Of particular help are the pages that give an overview of how parts of a house interconnect with each other, such as foundation-to-framing. Also, there is a wealth of info on HVAC, new window technology and other things I've found very, very helpful.

5 comments about Architectural Graphic Standards, Tenth Edition (Book only).

1. Through 3 years I had this book while in school, it was an invaluable resource. As many of you know, the work done in arch. school is very design/idea based, and not necessarily rooted in a feasible final product. However, I strived to include as many true-to-life elements in my design, and this book got it done for me. Many standards and sizes, etc. that had my classmates scrambling around on the internet or looking through dozens of books to find were easily found in the index of this book. It eventually became a class resource for a couple semesters until people bought their own.
   
   As a professional, many people's firms have a specialty or three. For instance, I work for a healthcare firm at the moment. However, as a student, you can run the whole gamut of different building types. Despite how far-out some of my designs were, the fact that they were rooted in current, workable building methods and systems that were detailed out helped me immensely when applying for jobs. Knowing the details and showing them in your design is not only good for your reputation, but good for ability as an architect.
   
   I'd recommend this to many arch students if the price is right for you. I happened upon it at a time with the book (no CD) was around $80 or $90. Of the dozens of textbooks I still have, this is one resource book I know I'll be consulting for a while.



2. Great book. Really Highlights the shortcomings of the modern addition of this book. I highly recomend this book for students and practicing architects.



3. For over 70 years, architects have been using a valuable reference book, "Architectural Graphic Standards."
   
   "Architectural Graphic Standards" is organized roughly per the CSI Masterformat divisions, including general planning and design data, sitework, concrete, masonry, metals, wood, thermal and moisture protection, doors and windows, finishes, specialties, equipment, furnishings, special construction, conveying systems, mechanical, electrical, sports, energy, history preservation, etc.
   
   "Architectural Graphic Standards" has 1072 pages (9.6 x 11.8 inches large format) and numerous line drawings. This new edition has expanded and new content covering contemporary issues. It is a must-have for architects, landscape architects and urban planners, interior designers, engineers or any other building-related design professionals.



4. I got this book for my cousin who just became an Architect in Ecuador. The cover was a bit damaged, but he was able to fix it my "making" a new cover. He is very pleased with the book. For the price paid, it was worth it.



5. The reprsentation was not clear this is a reproduction of a 1935 published book. This is not usefull in todays building enviroment.

1 comments about Time Saver Standards for Architectural Design : Technical Data for Professional Practice, 8th Ed..

1. Excerpt: Time-Saver Standards for Architectural Design, 8th edition, is a ref¬erence for architects, design and construction professionals, and edu¬cators.
   
   It represents the result of more than a half-century of documenting the knowledge and technical database for architectural practice. Over 80 authors and experts have contributed to the present volume, either with entirely new articles or, in other cases, updating topics and rec¬ommendations developed over many decades.
   How to Use This Book
   Scan the first-page summaries. The volume can be quickly scanned to provide an overview of the entire scope of architectural practice data. On the first page of each article, there is an introductory summary as well as key words, also found in the Index.
   I
   Use the Index for topic search. All topics covered in text, figures, and tables are listed in the Index, providing a cross-reference to locate specific content items.
   
   Read introductory articles and each specific topic article. Each topic area and separate article presents a series of layers of increasing de-tail, beginning with introductory articles. Highlights of each article are presented through illustrations and text, including checklists of key design criteria. References at the end of each article list sources and citations.
   
   Use the CD-ROM for easy access to selected articles with more data and detail. The CD-ROM Table of Contents is at the end of this volume, just before the Index.
   Build your knowledge like a building. Topics in this volume are organized like the process of building a building, "from the ground up." This conforms to the Uni format II classification system, beginning with foundations and proceeding through superstructure, enclosure, interiors, and services. It parallels the sequence and elements by which the ar¬chitecture and construction process is logically conceived.
   Companion Volumes in the Time-Saver Standards Series
   The focus of this volume of Time-Saver Standards for Architectural Design, 8th edition, is the architectural design and building project, as defined in architectural practice, including all technical aspects of its design and construction.
   
   Two additional recent titles of the Time-Saver Standards series follow a similar format and serve as companion volumes and additional ref¬erences:
   
   Time-Saver Standards for Building Materials and Systems, 1st edition (2000), is a compilation of technical details and checklists for specifi¬cation and selection data. It is an ideal companion volume for the building designer and construction specifier.
   
   Time-Saver Standards for Urban Design, 1st edition (2003), is an archival compilation of articles and references from the past 100 years, documenting the values and knowledge base of urban design. It covers topics beyond the scale of building to include urban design and planning.