1 comments about Power in Buildings.

1. This is an amazing compilation of drawings and written ideas from a truly visionary American architect, one considered to be among the 'inventors' of the skyscraper. Ferris was a prime force in realizing the vision of the 20th century metropolis which defined the idealism and unprecedented scale of the great American cities. This book is also a wonderful reminder, in this age of digital imagery and 3D visualization tools, of what power and beauty can be conveyed through the traditional medium of pencil and graphite. Ferris was a brilliant draughtsman and his rendering style unusually dramatic compared to most architectural renderings of his time.

1 comments about XS: Small Structures, Green Architecture.

1. Note carefully the words in the title of this book, 'Small Structures.' In spite of the copy on the back of the book, this is not a book concentrating on small houses. This a book on all kinds of small structures. They may be viewing platforms, a bridge, a pigeon loft, a monument, an emergency shelter made out of an ocean shipping container, a camera obscura, a work of art, or indeed there are a few houses here.
   
   What this book is really trying to do is push the state of the architectural art just as far as it can be pushed. Here are structures that are ecologically responsible, wildly creative and showcase the advanced thinking that the premier architectural firms can do when removed from the restrictions of building yet another McMansion.
   
   As you look at these structures, some give you ideas that you'd really like to try in your next building, some of the others just look weird and don't fit into anything that seems reasonable.
   
   All in all, I found it a stay up late and look at every picture just to see what they might think of next kind of book.

3 comments about Houses of Los Angeles, 1885-1919 (Urban Domestic Architecture Series) (Urban Domestic Architecture Series).

1. This two-volume study of historic Los Angeles houses from 1885 to 1935 is brilliant. The writing is excellent - witty and insightful and the historic photos are superb. Highly recommended.



2. These books from Acanthus Press are always so elegant and well done and this one is no exception. The images are well crafted, you cant help but appreciate how crisp and clear they are. The text is informative, it's not a scholarly thesis, but then again, that's really not what is called for here, you get enough information to appreciate the house being discussed and get a breif synopsis; perfect. This book along with it's companion volumn is a must have if you have any interest in this genre. Highly recommended.



3. This set of two volumes is absolutely terrific! The two volumes cover Los Angeles architecture from 1885 until 1935. The photographs and floor plans are extremely interesting. It is wonderful to see how these homes were furnished when they were new. The books give a brief history of each house and tell whether the home is still in existance and its current use. The variety of architecture in Los Angeles was so varied and most certainly a trendsetter for the entire country during those years. These books are a must for all architects, interior designers, local historians and all who are interested in houses.

1 comments about 21st Century Office.

1. This was a visually impressive book on modern office fit-outs. The book did however lack evaluative criticism of the workspaces. Working in the industry myself I continuously have to deal with defective fit-outs, so an evaluation of the space with feedback from staff would have been great. Having said this though, the book shows some stunning designs and talks about the process behind the artistic decisions. A pity there are not many Asian/Pacific offices looked at.

   Definitely one of the best office design books. Great for the office or coffee table.

1 comments about Residential Windows: A Guide to New Techonologies and Energy Performance, Third Edition.

1. I used the first two editions of this book to educate myself about modern windows. This knowledge was used to design and build a passive solar house at 7300' in the San Juan Mountains of Colorado, where the winters are often severe. The design was successful since the heat has been left off for more than three years, yet the house stayed comfortable year round.
   
   Residential Windows is written at a semi-technical level that is ideal for builders, architects, and home owners. I have given several copies away (including this third edition) and recommended it without reservation to many others. All the issues pertaining to windowing are explained lucidly and are well illustrated. Other than a Consumers Union style review of named makes and models (which it scrupulously avoids doing), you could hardly ask for more.

4 comments about Tropical Living: Contemporary Dream Houses in the Philippines.

1. I just bought a copy of this book. The pictures are great. I have the following problems with the book 1) The title is sly and deceiving. The bolded letters say "Tropical Living", and the rest of the title are in smaller letters. I bought the book thinking the featured homes are architectural entities uniquely tropical. They were not. Instead, the book is a hodgepodge of pretty homes artificially grouped through some whimsy of the author. 2) The pictures are hard to follow when you read the text. My advice, save your money and get yourself a subscription to a home design magazine. You will be better off.



2. If you are into tropical architecture, this sure is the book for you! Not much text which makes it of "worth" + great photography! Before planning a house, this sure is a must-have! Houses featured here has its owne individuality and character! Dont miss it!...



3. This is a beautifully photographed and well-organized showcase of wonderful Philippine homes. The range of houses covered is amazing and you're sure to get inspiration from one of the many fine examples of East meets West design as well as the seamless blend of Spanish, Malay, and Western heritage that the Philippines has. The homes are fabulous and even if you aren't thinking of redecorating, you will be after you finish it. One of the things that I particularly like about this is that unlike many books on Asian homes which focus only on either architectural design OR the interiors, this one gives a good balance of both. I just wish that the book had more pages.



4. This was truly a feast for my senses. The Filipino elite is a highly sophisticated, well travelled, cosmopolitan, tropical, and casually elegant group who have developed a blended taste and style of their own. This book could be renamed "Tropical Dream Homes of the Philippines Rich and Famous". What is truly visible in this book is the rich diversity and fusion of the different cultures - Chinese, Spanish, Indonesian, Malaysian, and American - creating a Philippine cosmo-Asian blend. I highly recommend this book.

2 comments about Waterfront Homes: 189 Home Plans for River, Lake or Sea.

1. Not really waterfront homes. Just run of the mill home plans. Save your maoney!



2. I was looking for house plans that had the major rooms on the front of the house overlooking a view. The title led me to believe I would find that type of home in this book. I did not. Also, most of the plans were very complicated with multiple roof angles and expensive building items.

2 comments about High-rise Manual.

1. This is a great book for anyone interested in high rises because it includes information on every topic required. The book tackles various subjects such as development, management, site, soils, structural design, facade, building systems and fire protection. in general, it is a great resource book and i highly recommend it!



2. This book features great technical information and is very thorough. I was hoping for a few more floor plans showing the design of cores and their relation to floor plates. Nevertheless, very useful to have.

1 comments about Log Cabin Classics.

1. We often romanticize about the small cabin in the woods, by the lake, or atop a mountain- the home that is in tune with nature. ~Robbin Obomsawin
   
   The first time I saw a log cabin it was love at first sight. One of my best gal friends from college is always dreaming of having her brother build her a log cabin. I'm dreaming of visiting her and sipping hot chocolate by a fireplace and catching up on her travels to Russia. The wish to live in a log cabin may be inspired by a romantic weekend or a trip to a friend's house in the woods.
   
   In "Log Cabin Classics" old-world cabins are inspired by nostalgic moments, a desire to be in harmony with nature and local materials.
   
   You will find information on Cabin Fever, Building Small Cabins, Second Homes, Planning Strategies, Risks and Problems, Budgeting and Construction Contracts, Reclaiming Wood and Building with Nature.
   
   The author, Robbin Obomsawin is the construction manager and general contractor for Beaver Creek Log Homes. She has an in-depth knowledge of conventional construction and lives in Westdale, New York.
   
   Robbin displays not only a intricate knowledge of log cabin construction, she is a deft writer who displays a true love of natural surroundings and nature escapes.
   
   If you are looking for decorating ideas, there are quite a few and full-color pictures display various settings. There are house plans complete with ideas for wraparound kitchens and bedroom lofts. I love the cozy bedrooms and rocking chairs placed near fireplaces.
   
   Bonus: You can also order blueprints from Beaver Creek Log Homes. There is also a list of resources to help you plan your building project.
   
   ~The Rebecca Review

No comments about Country Homes: 165 Plans with Rural Character (American Collection) (American Collection).