Architecture: A Crash Course

by Hilary French

Details the history of architecture from ancient times to the present and discusses critical personalities, styles, and movements

Genres: Architecture, History

144 pages, Paperback

First published September 1, 1998

Reviews

[Fikri Fadzil · Rating 3 out of 5]

I probably retained only about 10% of what I read from this book by the time I flipped the final pages. Despite its relatively small number of pages, it is packed with information on history-making architects and various architectural movements, providing me with valuable exposure. I appreciate that the author uses less formal language, particularly when discussing different styles and describing the individuals involved. Additionally, I like how the chapters are arranged, making future reference more convenient.

I only wish the book had more images to accompany the text, as well as a more expansive glossary.

[Shirley Elizabeth · Rating 3 out of 5]

A whirlwind trip from the Pyramids to the Millennium Dome. Curious mix of lightweight anecdotes and erudite commentary.

[Fraser Sherman · Rating 3 out of 5]

This crash guide squeezes in information about countless architectural schools such as Palladianism, Gothic, Classicism, Neogothic, Bauhaus and various names associated with them. It could use a bigger vocabulary section to make it more understandable but as a condensed, Cliffs Notes-style guide, effective.