Jump to ratings and reviews
Rate this book

ELEMENTS OF STYLE: A Practical Encyclopedia Of Interior Architectural Details From 1485 To The Present

Rate this book
More than 3,000 analytical drawings and historic engravings are included in this updated edition as well as 400 photographs in color and over 1,000 in black and white. These extraordinary images provide a systematic guide to the features appropriate for every part of a building, from the major components such as doors, windows, walls, floors, ceilings, and staircases to the small but important embellishments such as moldings and door hardware. At the heart of the book is a chronological treatment of the primary styles and periods of architectural design during the past 500 years. Each chapter begins with an illustrated essay, then looks in turn at individual features, from doors and windows to ironwork and woodwork. The usefulness of this book is further enriched by the inclusion of permanent or semipermanent fixtures such as lighting, kitchen stoves, and floor and wall coverings, as well as strictly architectural details. A useful system of quick reference, employing color-coded tabs keyed to each feature, enables the reader to trace how particular features evolved over time. And at the back of the book, separate chapters dealing with vernacular architecture are followed by a glossary and a fully updated directory of suppliers of authentic materials as well as period and reproduction features. A biographical directory of architects and architectural practices has been added.

Hardcover

First published October 15, 1991

16 people are currently reading
507 people want to read

Ratings & Reviews

What do you think?
Rate this book

Friends & Following

Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!

Community Reviews

5 stars
76 (52%)
4 stars
43 (29%)
3 stars
21 (14%)
2 stars
4 (2%)
1 star
1 (<1%)
Displaying 1 - 9 of 9 reviews
Profile Image for Michael.
81 reviews
April 28, 2008
An excellent and resourceful book that is packed with information on architectural styles. While the book emphasizes interior elements, there is also information pertaining to exterior stylistic elements.
Profile Image for Katie Knight.
42 reviews4 followers
Read
November 12, 2013
Incredible reference book that provides excellent details of specific Western style periods (Classical, Georgian, Baroque, etc.). Perfect for students who need help identifying ornamental and architectural details. Ample illustrations and photographs to supplement descriptions.
Profile Image for Nicole.
Author 44 books199 followers
August 12, 2009
For anyone who has ever wondered, "What is that thing on my house called?"

A great resource for writers of period fiction.
Profile Image for julia.
148 reviews11 followers
Read
December 28, 2009
Very comprehensive reference book.
Profile Image for Jenni.
42 reviews
December 30, 2013
This is a brilliant, in-depth reference that I will utilize again and again for research purposes.
Displaying 1 - 9 of 9 reviews

Can't find what you're looking for?

Get help and learn more about the design.