An inspiring monograph that captures the practical yet beautiful architecture of one of the leading architectural firms in the world

This book is about appreciation; it is an attempt to explain what architecture essentially is, rather than merely what it looks like. Architecture an Inspiration is addressed to those who enjoy buildings, cities and landscapes, and would like to have a deeper appreciation and a basis for their likes and dislikes. A full appreciation demands careful observation, and in these pages there are many explorations of this sort. The book is divided into two parts: the first is about the nature of architecture, describing what is necessary. The chapter headings define the basic requirements that, to varying degrees, must always be met, such as facilitating activity, moderating climate, relating to context, respecting materials and structure, as well as conveying meaning and delight. The second part is about the nature of designing and focuses on what the designer brings to the task to arrive at a human and poetic synthesis. These different ways of thinking are elusive and not necessarily conscious; they include the use of reason and intuition, the value of experience and precedent, the role of metaphor and the search for harmony. For students this is difficult, because there is no ‘right’ way of designing. So much of what is written about the architecture of today is negative that it seemed opportune to take a positive approach and point to work that is good – now and in the past – and reiterate some timeless qualities. Architecture an Inspiration does not set out to be comprehensive; Ivor Smith chooses examples that he finds particularly inspiring from the work of a few selected architects. The book will appeal to those both interested in and studying architecture.

Paul Rudolph (1918–1997) authored some of Modernism's most powerful designs and served as an influential educator while chair of Yale's School of Architecture. His early residential work in Sarasota, Florida, garnered international attention, and his later exploration of Brutalist materials nd forms, most famously embodied in his Yale Art & Architecture Building (1963), earned Rudolph both notoriety and acclaim. Many of the dynamic drawings included in this collection — selected from the architect's archive housed in the Library of Congress — illustrate his highly emotive hand and deft drafting skill. They include his designs for Tuskegee University Chapel, Interama, Lower Manhattan Expressway, his analysis of Mies van der Rohe's Barcelona Pavilion, and his own inventive penthouse on Beekman Place in New York City. A lively Rudolph interview, conducted in 1986, and a newly commissioned introductory essay provide context for the drawings.

Fifteen lavishly detailed Southern houses in Atlanta, Georgia, South Carolina, the Virginia Piedmont, along the Florida coasts, and in the mountains of North Carolina, from a leader in traditional architecture. Esteemed Atlanta architect Norman Davenport Askins made his name with his mastery of historical precedent. His gracious and livable designs recall such diverse sources as Italian Renaissance country villas, hillside castles in the Dordogne, and the very strong presence of the Colonial Revival and Federal houses in Atlanta and the greater South. Inspired by Tradition presents a portrait of Southern elegance through Askins’s trademark infusion of traditional design with understated innovation and style. New color photographs of interiors and landscape, commissioned specially for the book, complement traditional hand-drawn plans and elevations. In a special section dedicated to “Elements of Tradition,” Askins identifies the key components of traditional design and the parameters for using them successfully. Ultimately he believes in approaching tradition with innovation and individuality—adding touches of glamour, humor, and romance that bring his houses to life.

An architecture portfolio designed by Alex Hogrefe describing 4 original projects with a focus on unique representational techniques and styles.

Dazzling beautiful, this new hardcover book is a tour de force of the latest European-inspired homes designed by Bassenian/Lagoni Architects of Newport Beach, California's premier residential architecture firm. Here the reader will discover ruggedly handsome exteriors reminiscent of the hill towns of Tuscany and richly appointed interiors that echo the great rooms of Andalusia--all with very modern floor plans and amenities. This milestone book will serve as a valuable resource for anyone seeking ideas for a home design, landscaping, interiors and furnishings in the Old World Style.