5 comments about Informal.

1. This is one of the most important book about informal architecture.
   It is about how idea becomes possible reality. Instead of accept the way it is, it playfully explores the other way of merging engineering & architecture.



2. i bought it as a gift, based on information in the New York Times. don't know how it was received.



3. Informal is an extraordinary work. I guess the reason why it's so shocking is that the content of the book is not like those static structural forms or solutions that we see in structural class. The case studies that Balmond brings to the table are very recent and genuine by star architects. I guess I was shocked by the fact that all these architects are not structurally oriented architects such as Foster/ Piano/ Calatrava/ Hopkins. Rather, they are theoretically approaching architects such as Koolhaas/ Liebskind; or, tectonically approaching architects such as Siza. I never thought projects by them had anything to do with structural or mathmatical innovation. Reading Informal, one can easily detect where the originality lie in each project. Sometimes it's in the irregularity of geometry or sometimes it's in mathmatical mystery. Balmond contends that they are all in mother nature. Unlike a formal structural engineering (e.g. Peter Rice) Balmond's originality comes from the informal networks. In High-tech, the ingenuity of structural entity was condensed into joinery. Informal networks is much more diverse and complex than that. It is against the conventional formal structural idea of hierarchy/center/symmetry. Balmond argues, formal approach is defining a problem in a "fixed" or "contained" manner; hence, leading to a same old idea of solution/ detailing. In Informal, Balmond redefines it in a more active/dynamic geometry, to bring about unexpected realities. Sometimes through structural innovation and sometimes through special surface treatment, Balmond promoted and realized the ideas of star architects. Overall, he has freed architecture from the "Cartesian Cage".



4. It was quite interesting to get a look at the somewhat unusual engineering process of Cecil Balmond.

   And to discover his inputs behind some famous building, from Koolhas, Libeskind to Siza.

   The book is quite easy to read and don`t think you are going to get a structural crash course from Balmond (I must admit, I was bit disapointed of not finding that) but you do get the kind of passionate and heartily discussions you would get if you had the chance of drinking down a few drinks with Balmond and ending up with his famous sketches he drew on the bar's napkins.

   Expect a book with graphics and layout of Koolhas' SMLXL / Big fonts, dual-tone pictures.

   GOod read, good essay, not for someone looking for glossy pictures




5. Cecil Balmond is passionate and inspirational. When working with him, you know there is something amazing happening. I had the pleasure of having him as a studio instructor at Yale University, School of Architecture. Cecil believes in the possibilities of architecture and engineering working together in ways that enhance and grace both fields. This book brings his insight and passions together. I highly recommend it to engineers and architects alike.

5 comments about Color Drawing: Design Drawing Skills and Techniques for Architects, Landscape Architects, and Interior Designers.

1. I am a beginning artist. I am especially interested in drawing. This book has fabulous examples of using marker, pastel and colored pencil for bringing a drawing to the next level. The ideas brought forth are exactly what I have been searching for. The book also has references to other books which I have acquired. I also use graphic programs at work. This book takes a hand drawing into Photoshop for the next level as well. Awesome book!



2. this book is an awsome book for any designer intrested in improving their presentations, the book is very thorough and deals with a wide range of subjects....very recomended!!!!



3. It is a very handy book, but this edition is leaning more towards photoshop capabilities. The tips it gives for computer rendering are nice to know but I think it's sacrificing a bit of the hand rendering information which I would have liked to see more of.



4. I am an Interior Design major and my professor recommended this book for the use of Prismacolor markers. It gives you great advice on how to render (coloring using the Prismacolor markers to show colors and shadows) and different techniques so you can get the effect you want.



5. This book is a great reference book if you'd like to learn historical techniques used in rendering, such as diazo printing, as well as for basic guidance using Photoshop for rendering. However, I highly recommend using the 3rd edition along with a current Photoshop tutorial, or other rendering software for utilizing current digital techniques (all of the outdated Photoshop instructions have been removed from the 3rd edition).

5 comments about Realistic Architectural Visualization with 3ds Max and mental ray.

1. This is really good choice for me. Detailed one project sutdy. Actually I learned a lot from this book. Before Mental Ray / Lighting in 3D's Max was a puzzle for me. Know I really understand.
   
   Thanks,
   Regards,
   SAQIB



2. At first I was reluctant to buy this book as the previous books about mental ray were not so helpful;being a 3ds max user. I have to confess that I was utterly surprised to find out that this book explores most areas of mental ray usage. Moreover, i was delighted to have seen for the first time a book that touches on the subject about common mental ray errors, and how to overcome them.The "flash light effect" tutorial was another big surprise for me; especially as this technique has always been linked to Maxwell renderer.
   Having known jamie cardoso's work for years, I knew this book would be a good purchase.
   All tutorials were innovative and very easy to follow.
   Finally,the array of detailed 3D scenes,bitmaps and documentation make this book a very good value for money indeed. Many thanks to Jamie and Roger. ...Are you considering the second edition any time soon? This book left me wanting to know more.



3. If you've never done any design viz before (and I mean NEVER) you might benefit from this book. My biggest beef is that 90% of this book's content is laid out almost word for word in the Mental Ray tuts and user reference that ship with Max 9. At this price...hold off.



4. I must admit that i am really dissapointed with this book. To me it seems like the author just took the reference help menu and made it his own. These renders are not even close to realism. I thought by buying this book, i would gain some confidance in the archviz field. Unfortunately that is not the case. I will have to look elsewhere to gain that confidance and to get a better book or dvd tutorial on archviz. I am not new to 3D. I have worked in 3D for 7 years using 3ds max, and Maya. This book is more accurate to be marketed towards beginners and not towards mid level or professionals.



5. The objective of Architectural visualization is to produce high quality photorealistic images. Unfortunately this book falls far short of achieving that objective. The illustrations throughout are a huge and major disappointment and printing photorealistic images with a semi mat finish kills the renderings stone dead. The book largely replicates the settings information available in the 3ds User Reference so you're not going to learn any secret techniques that will make you a rendering expert with mental ray. I'd have to rate the presentation of this book as being at the bottom of the pile and given the blurb on the experience of the authors, I really expected something that set the bar a whole lot higher. The Appendix section on HDRI images and their use for lighting is woeful and the images are tinted with a orange/pink colour that leaves you wondering what the authors were trying to do as HDRI for lighting can produce truly spectacular renderings. Unfortunately you're not going to learn how to do it using this book though your renderings may improve if your a total beginner. There is too much emphasis (and illustrations of) problem with mental ray renderings - one screen capture is a totally black box - that could have been described in a few sentences. Showing problems is not something that needs to be illustrated as that just wastes precious paper that could have been used to provide useful information. When combined with it's 'tick this, change that setting' approach of the authors, this book is a very unsatisfactory work that skips and skims over the workings of mental ray and its setting, which is probably something that more advanced users really want to know. What the authors tell you about mental ray can be found in the 3ds User Reference where it is clearly covered in about the same amount of detail. Readers are looking for snappy solutions for rendering with mental ray and unfortunately this book fails to deliver. As a reader I feel it's a total let down. The DVD with the book contains the models and textures used throughout the book and these are welcome. A redeeming feature of the book are the screen captures for 3ds settings, which are very clear. If you've used mental ray in 3ds for any period of time then this book probably isn't for you as it seems to be aimed more at novice users and those not totally familiar with the 3ds interface. The appendices take up one third of the book, which seems a bit excessive given that the book is supposed to be about producing high quality renderings with mental ray.

5 comments about Pamphlet Architecture 27: Tooling (Pamphlet Architecture).

1. Aranda/Lasch provide a glimpse of what algorithmic techniques in architecture are capable of producing. Spiraling, packing, weaving, blending, cracking, flocking, and tiling are briefly defined, and their conceptual application in architecture is explored.
   
   Although interesting, the discussion is left at a highly conceptual level, and the book could benefit from more detailed exploration and explanation. A website promising programming code to accompany the techniques has yet to be developed (and 2 years from date of publication probably never will) and does not appear to require the purchase of the book in order to access if it ever does go online.
   
   A better discussion of algorithmic architecture can be found in Kostas Terzidis' Algorithmic Architecture, which not only shows better developed architectural projects but provides an analysis of code scripting.



2. This book looks at scripting from a conceptual point of view. I enjoyed its form and content. The examples of work were inspiring.
   
   Why do I give this 3 out of 5 stars? I feel slightly miss led. On page 94 the authors write "Scripts from tooling experiments are available at www.arandalasch.com/tooling". Yet the site doesn't exist! The authors have yet to create this accompanying site that could give more tangible insight into the nitty-gritty of scripting. I assume it won't happen as its been more than a year now since the book was published. Too bad, because there are really few books that get into the details of scripting without becoming "programming books". Aranda and Lasch could have been pioneers in this area as they seem to enjoy the hands-on aspects of making stuff. Instead, they have dropped the ball.
   
   The book is full of pseudocode which is fine if you already know how to program. But for DIY beginners like myself, its just not enough...



3. as an architect, i find this book fascinating. but it is not in any way limited to the practice of architecture. its relevance extends to all fields of design, and probably into fields of which i am not familiar. its a 'must have' in my opinion.



4. The book updates the latest trend and concept of architectural actions. I find it very useful tool to have.



5. This book provides a general idea about scripting and algorithmic design to those interested in this new medium of design in architecture. I personally have known the authors and they're experts in this field.

3 comments about Toilets of the World.

1. This books is worth it for the pictures alone. It will bring back memories for anyone who has every encounterd a toilet that they just weren't sure how to use.



2. for anyone interested in architecture this gives a great overview of a much overlooked subject--the toilet. educational as well as humorous.



3. Although the title (Toilets of the World) may not grab you, it is one of the more interesting little travel books I've seen in some time. The photos are terrific and the information is invaluable. If you are planning an overseas trip and want to experience the true local flavors, you should consult this book so as to avoid what could be some unpleasant culture shock before you get there. Remember the 'Seinfeld' episode where Geroge would not use a bathroom during the trip to India? This book will help you understand why he had a problem with that. This book also contains some terrific snapshots of worldwide culture that my high school students find fascinating - an impetus for them to take a closer look at the different areas of the world.

4 comments about Marker Magic: The Rendering Problem Solver for Designers.

1. This book is helpful if you are trying to find your style of marker rendering it has a lot of helpful information and examples.



2. This book was very helpful in showing me different rendering techniques used by varying artists. From minimalist, neutral shading to full blown, vibrant color renderings, this book covered them all.
   Great tips on which marker colors to use to achieve a particular 'look'...such as glass, metal, wood, etc.
   Highly recommend.



3. This book got me through architectural school. Hand renderings were never my strong point until I got this book. My rendering skills went up considerably (along with my confidence and grades) and I still reference this book today in my professional career. The book gives great examples and the tips from the professionals are very informative. This is definately one of the best books on how to make professional looking presentations.



4. The question and answer format of this book is useful and allows a different kind of organization to its contents. It also incorporates the work of a broad cross-section of designers. This allows the editors to expose you to many of the best in different fields in which markers are used to increase the effectiveness of visual communication. While certainly useful for the beginner, it will also stimulate the more experienced designer.

5 comments about Design Drawing.

1. This is a great tool to use for design and is a great reference book for work if you are a drafter too. The drawings are very clear, informative and precice. We love this book for our office.



2. While Ching does cover some aspects of drawing outside of those needed for drafting, the primary focus is on architectural drafting. This is a technical book intended for design students. It is not a do-it-yourself learn-to-draw manual. Most often, this book will be a textbook in a design class. As such, it is excellent. The instructions are clear and well written, the drawings are simple and easy to follow, the flow of the book is natural, building from very simple to more and more complex drafting skills. This book can take you from elementary drafting skills to advanced if you use it as intended. All in all, this is an excellent book on design drawing. I highly recommend it for anyone entering the design field.



3. i purchased this book as required text for an upcoming class and got more than i bargained for...the book is informative, fascinating, and inspiring and i haven't been able to put it down...i am really looking forward to utilizing the book in the classroom setting to in order to explore some of the concepts presented, particularly those that are more elusive to grasp...because the book uses exercises to really cement in the main idea of each of its concepts, it is an invaluable learning tool...i highly recommend this book to anyone interested in developing a deeper understanding and appreciation of drawing and design.



4. This book is very good for designers, and you can learn many details of drawing from this book. Also, it was a very good price to buy it with Amazon (cheapest than other stores).



5. Way too fast for learning to draw. Like most of Chings stuff it lacks narrative and aims at getting you to think visually. However first timers need a bit of narrative hand holding so I would suggest something else. Might be good for a 2nd book to help reinforce concepts visually after you already have some base confidence in the drawing.

5 comments about Introducing Revit Architecture 2008.

1. I feel that this book will really help the department I am in. We are trying to implament REVIT, this book is a real good tool to help with the training that is needed to get this done.



2. After working with this book for four hours I'm already fed up with it. This book has poor presentation by doing things such as referring to highlighted section on all black and white drawings, and providing tutorial steps for functions that do not work in Revit. Also, vague wording makes it hard to find tools and tool bars being referred too. This book is not a good learning tool. Think twice about buying this book, and read any glorifying reviews carefully and with reservations.



3. I read this book A-Z and it helped a lot. Although i already have made one little revit project before reading this book, there were a lot of useful tips. I liked the way book tells about revit - everything's written from architects sight not techno-geek's.
   Only four stars because there were too less information about revit families - thats very important even for beginers.



4. I found the book very helpful. As a newer user of Revit I found it to be more than informative. Who expects a book to teach you how to completely use new software? Does a book ever do this for an individual? It's there as a REFERENCE. The only way to get use to the software is by using it and "playing" with it. I can find mistakes or incorrect entries in every software manual. Take it for what it is, a sourse of information. The book is more than adequate.



5. As a new REVIT user I thoroughly enjoyed "Intruding REVIT Architecture 2008". The book offered a concise introduction to BIM and its uses throughout the process of architectural design. Best of all were the tips and tricks revealed. As with any new program, it takes time to pick up the short cuts and discover all of the possibilities of a parametric program. Enjoy!

5 comments about Helvetica: Homage to a Typeface.

1. This makes for a good coffee table book, or perhaps bathroom reading, but as a graphic design reference it falls short. Basically just a picture book. The first half is a compendium of various samples of graphic design, some of them really wonderful, all using Helvetica. The second half is a photographic essay showing the font used in the public domain throughout the world. It would have been nice to include some essays from leading writers in the design world on the history of the font, or it's influence, both good and bad, in the visual vernacular. I was inspired to buy it after seeing the film "Helvetica," and found that film to be a much more rewarding experience.



2. My binding also fell apart the second time I flipped through it. I loved the book, but the binding is just terrible.



3. First the mystery: just why was every alternate page in the book joined together? The reader has to carefully cut the perforations to be able to look at every page. I can't find any reference in the small amount of text about this. My conclusion is that the public use of the type is on the open pages and non-public (or designed) examples are on the perforation joined pages. At least you'll know if you buy a pre-used copy though.
   
   Apart from the perforations I thought this was a handsome little book and homage in the title is very apt. Helvetica is probably the world's number one communication choice, it works just as well on a municipal sign or a new baby announcement. Before it gained a monopoly each nation seemed to have its own jobbing type, Franklin Gothic in America, Gill Sans in England or Antique Olive in France, for instance but the super clean lines of Helvetica (and computer typesetting) meant it was no contest for all the others.
   
   The author mentions the uniqueness of Swiss design in the Fifties partly because the top designers always used the same typeface, the stunning Akzidenz Grotesk, which fitted into their rather austere but elegant graphic solutions even though it only had two weights, Medium and Bold. Who needs italic, extended, condensed, extra black and the other weights to communicate efficiently? The rest of the world for a start. From the late Fifties Swiss designed Helvetica spread across the globe and you'll see from the hundreds of examples in these pages some wonderful design solutions, especially the two hundred plus logos that use the face in all sorts of variations. As a typeface there are probably a few dozen Helvetica weights now available. Incidentally, the author suggests that Arial, the default type used on Outlook Express for most emails is a digital Helvetica, close but no cigar! The most obvious differences are the cap G and the lower case s and t.
   
   'Homage to a typeface' is a lovely book that'll interest most typographers and anyone who is curious about a lettering style that seems to be everywhere.
   
   ***FOR AN INSIDE LOOK click 'customer images' under the cover.



4. It's about what you'd expect. I feel like I got my $20 worth, but as mentioned, it's gonna fall apart before you're halfway into the book. I think if I would have heeded the warnings it may have gone a little farther. Your mileage may vary.



5. I'll start by saying that this is a lovely tribute to the most invisible, versatile and ubiquitous font. It is a full bled chunk of photography and unintentional wit.
   Buuuttt....
   
   The binding is absolutely horrendous. I'm not referring to the imaginative use of perforation, either. The binding completely fell apart after flipping through it once. The pages are not folded and stitched and only held in with apparently inadequate adhesive. I am now the proud owner of a nice stack of loose paper.
   
   Due to the fact that the reader is expected to separate the perforated edges- the book becomes non-refundable.
   
   So, although I wish I could recommend this little book due to content I strongly advise that you not purchase it.

5 comments about The Book as Art: Artists' Books from the National Museum of Women in the Arts.

1. Turning the book making into an art can make a book more attractive and collectible. This book demonstrates a lot of outstanding examples. Readers are completely satisfied by the books in this book.



2. One of the best! This book should be on your bookshelf if you are interested in the books as an art form. I would suggest it for any school or college media center. I would not include it on a list for coffee table books but if you have a serious home library which leans toward the book arts,artist journals and sketchbooks; by all means, put this out on the reading table.
   The next best thing:Visiting the Museum in person!



3. This book is wonderful! It features many artists and their foray into the world of book arts. The photos are splendid and the background information on the artists is excellent. It arrived in shrink-wrap which protected it nicely. Great book!



4. I am a mixed media artist and art teacher who has discovered a love for viewing and creating artist books. This catalogue of artist books is one of the most beautiful I've seen. Even though this isn't a how to book, it has given me much inspiration for art projects for my students and for myself.



5. If you are looking for inspirational, high quality photographs of some of the best fine art bookwork out there, this is for you. A few of the artists' books featured in here are also illustrated in other books, but the quality of the photographic reproductions here is so top notch that even though I'd seen some of the work before, it didn't matter all that much. The reproductions are fresh and full of detail. Each entry is accompanied by a nice little blurb from the artist explaining the work. Keep in mind that this is a catalogue from the National Museum of Women in the Arts. It is not a how-to, and the artists do not give instructions for making similar work or anything like that. This is for inspiration and enjoyment, with a little bit of art criticism thrown in. It's refreshing to see work of such originality and high quality, reproduced so well.