American Architecture: A History

by Leland M. Roth

More than fifteen years after the success of the first edition, this sweeping introduction to the history of architecture in the United States is now a fully revised guide to the major developments that shaped the environment from the first Americans to the present, from the everyday vernacular to the high style of aspiration. Eleven chronologically organized chapters chart the social, cultural, and political forces that shaped the growth and development of American towns, cities, and suburbs, while providing full description, analysis, and interpretation of buildings and their architects. The second edition features an entirely new chapter detailing the green architecture movement and architectural trends in the 21st century. Further updates include an expanded section on Native American architecture and contemporary design by Native American architects, new discussions on architectural education and training, more examples of women architects and designers, and a thoroughly expanded glossary to help today's readers. The art program is expanded, including 640 black and white images and 62 new color images. Accessible and engaging, American Architecture continues to set the standard as a guide, study, and reference for those seeking to better understand the rich history of architecture in the United States.

Genres: History, Architecture, Urbanism

752 pages, Paperback

First published December 18, 2001

Reviews

[Sarah · Rating 3 out of 5]

We used this book in my graduate "Into to American Architectural History" course.

Pros: It does a good job of putting architecture into social, cultural, economic, and political context. It features lots of photos. It describes many facets of architecture, such as landscape architecture and company housing.

Cons: It is so very long and detailed. Some chapters are nearly one hundred pages long. For someone with zero previous architectural classwork or experience, it was often overwhelming and monotonous, and it featured much architectural theory that I felt it would require specialized knowledge to really understand, not just this book.

So, while this tome is certainly very thorough, I would not recommend it for an introductory architectural history class.

[Wilderness · Rating 5 out of 5]

Leland was my Architecture history professor while in grad. school at University of Oregon. Obviously we used his texts for the course :) He's a great professor, great writer and sweet person. Plus, he wears a bow tie everyday!

[Cheery · Rating 3 out of 5]

Very, very detailed writing. A bit overwhelming to be honest.

[Walida Smith · Rating 5 out of 5]

The only text book I have read cover to cover and refer back to on a regular basis. Must have in your Architectural reference library.