Architecture books

The Death and Life of Great American Cities

The Death and Life of Great American Cities

1961
by Jane Jacobs
5.0

What is The Death and Life of Great American Cities about?

Written by Jane Jacobs, an urban activist, this book is one of the most influential in terms of urban planning. Jacobs criticizes the ineffective aspects of a city planning and highlights the problems to be addressed. It is a very informative read, that provides a better understanding of a comfortable city.

Cubed

Cubed

20148 min read
by Nikil Saval
5.0

What is Cubed about?

We are so used to the idea of offices—but how did they become the way we know them now? “Cubed” examines the history of office work from the 1800s to the present, highlighting how technology and design have transformed workspaces. The book examines how these developments aimed to improve worker productivity and well-being.

The Architecture of Happiness

The Architecture of Happiness

2006
by Alain de Botton
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What is The Architecture of Happiness about?

"Bad architecture is in the end as much a failure of psychology as of design". This book by Alain de Botton looks at the architecture from a more human viewpoint, analyzing the idea of beauty in it. Find out more and deepen your understanding of architecture through psychology and philosophy.

Streetfight

Streetfight

2016
by Janette Sadik-Khan, Seth Solomonow
5.0

What is Streetfight about?

Janette Sadik-Khan and her co-author Seth Solomonow write about the potential of improving the city infrastructure. Sadik-Khan shares her experience as a commissioner of the New York City Department of Transportation, proving that change is possible even in the most challenging cities. This book inspires readers to take interest in the development of their communities, becoming a part of urban transformation.

The Lives of the Most Excellent Painters, Sculptors, and Architects

The Lives of the Most Excellent Painters, Sculptors, and Architects

2006
by Giorgio Vasari
5.0

What is The Lives of the Most Excellent Painters, Sculptors, and Architects about?

The influence of great Renaissance artists like Leonardo da Vinci, Michelangelo, and Raphael is undoubtedly inspiring. Giorgio Vasari's "The Lives of the Most Excellent Painters, Sculptors, and Architects" will be a godsend, detailing the lives and works of Italy's most famous artists. You will learn the details of their creative processes as artists and the cultural context in which they worked. Let the culture of the Renaissance and the hard work of these artists motivate you to pursue your own creations!

Architecture

Architecture

1979
by Francis D.K. Ching
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What is Architecture about?

When architects are asked about essential books to read, "Architecture: Form, Space, & Order" is at the top of the list! You'll learn the main elements of architecture, such as spatial organization, proportion, and composition. Francis D.K. Ching's book combines detailed illustrations with theoretical concepts.

The 99% Invisible City

The 99% Invisible City

2020
by Roman Mars, Kurt Kohlstedt
5.0

What is The 99% Invisible City about?

"The 99% Invisible City" is about the small and often ignored things that constitute our urban environment. You will learn about the details that make up a city, noticing the systems and objects you’ve probably haven’t taken into account before. This book, which is based on a podcast of the same name, is a wellspring of practical trivia.

Leonardo da Vinci

Leonardo da Vinci

2018
by Walter Isaacson
5.0

What is Leonardo da Vinci about?

Leonardo da Vinci by Walter Isaacson provides a vibrant exploration of Leonardo’s life, celebrating his legacy and curiosity. The book engagingly connects his iconic artworks and his scientific endeavors in anatomy and engineering. If you want to get inspired by the brilliance of a true Renaissance man – this is a perfect read.

101 Things I Learned in Architecture School

101 Things I Learned in Architecture School

2006
by Matthew Frederick
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What is 101 Things I Learned in Architecture School about?

This unique book will be a useful read to architects, designers, and other people working with visuals. Matthew Frederick shares his architectural insights through minimalist sketches with explanations. You might think that drawing a line is nothing much — but Fredetick will prove you wrong.

Ways of Seeing

Ways of Seeing

1990
by John Berger
5.0

What is Ways of Seeing about?

Originally a BBC television series, Ways of Seeing explores our perception of the visual world. John Berger encourages us to consider the social and historical context when viewing art, questioning our assumptions. If you’re interested in the complexity of art and media, you’ll find this book valuable.

The Poetics of Space

The Poetics of Space

1957
by Gaston Bachelard
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What is The Poetics of Space about?

The spaces we exist in are more than just walls and floors — they also have an emotional aspect to them. "The Poetics of Space" allows the readers to look at architecture from a philosophical standpoint. You'll be inspired to think of space beyond just functionality.

Modern Architecture

Modern Architecture

1980
by Kenneth Frampton
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What is Modern Architecture about?

This book is a perfect fit if you're looking for a guide to modern architecture and its history. The development of contemporary architecture is full of fascinating stories and sources of inspiration. Still, as the book is written by an architectural historian and architecture critic, there's much to criticize, too!

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