1 comments about Flying Dutchman: Motion in Architecture.

1. This book is of most interest in getting behind the rhetoric used by contemporary avant-garde architects in regards to developing an architecture responsive to the physical structure of reality, often propped up by questionable references to philosophers such as Deleuze and Bergson. Jormakka cleverly shows how the interest in movement is hardly something new. History indeed seems to be repeating itself. My only problem with the book is that it doesn't go far enough - Jormakka never questions the questionable "search for truth" which these endeavours are ultimately driven by - indeed, he seems to rather admire the works (such as that of UN Studio) he criticises. The question then arises, is the architecture of interest - even beautiful ! - regardless of the rhetoric behind it, thus putting into doubt theoretical approaches to architecture. It would also have been of interest to take on the question of the sublime - the overpowering feeling of large scale - which also lies behind many of these schemes.

5 comments about Glass in Architecture.

1. This is an interesting publication because this book try to bridge the history and technical aspect of glass and mr wigginton has explained clearly with examples (accompanying colorful illustration and working detail) shown in the book.
   
   The book is basically divided into 3 parts:
   1. history and theory - understanding the historical and theorical aspect of glass industry. (eg. the influence of Mies)
   2. examples - shows important examples of glass technology developement with detail illustrations. (eg. Pei's Louvre)
   3. Technical index - manufacturing, strength and U value of glass.
   
   This is a great survey book on glass architecture but one might find that the essay is not critical enough and the detail shown is not specific enough for further understanding of this subject matter.
   
   However, no readers would disagree that your paid money worth.



2. this book combines a very well structured well written text, nice photos, great deapth, and all from a great publisher which we are used to getting the best from. covers all aspects of the history, the industry, the usage, with many tips here and there. it is highly recommended. the only problem is that the book is really heavy!!



3. Most architecture books are not this technical. This weighty tome has a complete history of the use of glass since the Gothic cathedrals, an in-depth review of the technology of this unique building material, reviews of modern buildings, down to 1:5 construction details of their glass components, and appendixes that cover the science involved, all presented in a readable and visually attractive package.



4. Glass as a material, is used in an endless variety of industries. And in most of these industries, the technical aspects of glass manufacture, and performance, are inherently involved in the application of glass.
   
   However, in Architecture, the implementation of glass products is frequently done without detailed technical expertise. In order to ensure that the proper glass product is utilized in the right context, every Architect needs to be aware of basic glass technology.
   
   'Glass in Architecture' provides this basic knowledge, and provides a structure for pursuing further research.
   
   Some of the relevant issues addressed are: manufacture of glass, manufacture of coatings for glass, effects of coatings, effects of tints, effects of various compositions (insulated glass, laminated glass), light properties, solar properties, thermal properties, acoustic properties, and structural properties.
   
   As an Architect and Facade Consultant, I find the book extremely helpful on a daily basis. It never leaves my desk.
   
   Mark E. Dannettel, Senior Associate
   Thornton Tomasetti Engineers



5. this book help me do do my paper about glass i'd never seen this kind of book, very important to every architect who will build a building with glass as its elements.

No comments about Eco-Refurbishment: A Practical Guide to Creating an Energy Efficient Home.

No comments about Interpretation in Architecture: Design as a Way of Thinking.

1 comments about New Architecture in Britain.

1. First London, and now the provinces of Britain are enthusiastically embracing blobs, high tech steel and glass structures, and abstractions of the rural vernacular-a development that would have been inconceivable a few decades ago, when the natives cordially (and understandably) detested the few scattered impositions of Brutalism. Powell has made a judicious choice of a hundred buildings completed in the last three years, or about to be.

   Aside from the po-mo villas of Quinlan Terry, it coheres as a portrait of the best new British architecture, with good representation of stars and emerging talents, plus guest turns by Gehry, Ando, and Libeskind. The descriptions are terse and perceptive; the illustrations of each project are few, but carefully chosen. (Michael Webb is the book reviewer for LA Architect magazine.)

No comments about Sustainable Place: A Place of Sustainable Development.

No comments about Architectural Engineering Design: Mechanical Systems.

2 comments about Masted Structures in Architecture (Butterworth Architecture New Technology Series).

1. The book offers critical insights into a large collection of tensile structures around the world. Although one would wish for more colour pictures, the information provided is informative and could easily be followed if needed. The book is suitable for professionals and students alike. However, given the rapid development in this area, I wonder if the authors would consider publishing a revision or an expanded edition. Overall, very well done.



2. Being one of the authors of this book. It is difficult to write an impartial review. However, if anyone wish to contact the authors, you can email me at kli@HK.Super.Net

1 comments about Natural Stone a Guide to Selection: Studio Marmo (Norton Books for Architects & Designers).

1. Natural Stone a Guide to Selection, is a goldmine of information. The true-to-color plates appeal to the aesthetics while the no-nonsense technical information allows to distinguish between stones suitable for various uses. Whether you are shopping for a new kitchen or floor surface, or simply wish to appreciate how generous Mother Nature truly is -- this is a resource for chosing marble, granite, travertine, or stone.

2 comments about Recovering America : A More Gentle Way to Build.

1. What I enjoy most about Mr. Wells' books is his optimism. In Recovering America he first sets out and documents the environmental destruction of current building practices with photos taken from heliocopters. Yet this isn't a book stuck on just what's been destoyed. Each set of pictures showing paved over land is followed by either real life examples of a better, greener alternative or a water color print of forest life restored. In order for humanity to live in harmony with nature, I'd argue visionary ideas like the one contained in this book are essential to spurring society to change.



2. the latest book in Malcolm's many wonderful books is great. He is a great illustrator and writer especially his hand written text. I use this book as an introduction to all of my classes in sustainable architecture that I teach from middle school to university. It is clear, concise and addresses the issue of green spaces vs. urban evolution of the built environment. it is a quick read, very profound in its statement and makes a nice addition to the library.