Architecture is Elementary, revised: Visual Thinking Through Architectural Concepts

by Nathan B. Winters

Awarded for its unique ink illustrations, this newly revised edition of Architecture is Elementary is a self-instruction book that concisely and coherently discusses the principles of architectural design. Stimulating lessons challenge the lay person and trigger creative responses. New features include a fresh design and layout, 50 new illustrations of recent and planned buildings, and new lessons that update the book for the world of twenty-first-century architecture. Author Nathan Winters explains the rationale for developers choosing to build higher and taller with modern high-rises, and explores the engineering challenges for such giant structures. He also addresses the dangers of such adventurous design in this century, including becoming tempting targets for terrorists. Architecture is Elementary also explores issues surrounding modern landscape architecture, as Winters looks at the impact of green design and cities that seek to reclaim useless spaces (such as inactive railroad lines), converting them into parks for urban use. He also explores the financial and economic benefits of beautified landscape. The new layout, new lesson materials, and current examples of future thinking in the world of architecture make this a must-have for every serious teacher, student, and practitioner of architecture.

Genres: Architecture

288 pages, Paperback

First published October 24, 2000

Reviews

[Lori G · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is somewhat like a textbook for a middle school art and/or architecture teacher. However, as a non-teaching adult I really enjoyed all the explanation. The pen and ink building drawings are great and Nathan Winters definitely makes me understand the need for visual literacy.

I will now be looking closer at buildings to detect balance, rhythm, and order. Also, the consideration of permanent and durable vs impermanent and disposable may enter my thoughts or just what is represented by enormous buildings when a more human scale could have been used.

This may be a book of basic design principles but I enjoyed it all the same.