Customer Reviews

Building Construction Before Mechanization

5 star:		(2)
4 star:		(1)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

This book surveys what is known of construction techniques before mechanization - from an entire chapter on the Egyptian pyramids to recent vernacular and jerry-built construction, from planning to quarrying and transporting stones to raising workers and materials on site. Though most of the book concentrates on stonework for obvious reasons, there are brief discussion of other techniques and materials, and an entire chapter on the use of wood. It has an excellent notes section with parenthetical and source notes expanding on the text and a great bibliography.

If you are interested by construction or past cultures, give this book a read. My own copy is dog-eared, bookmarked, scribbled in, and in overall shabby shape--having been loaned to several of my peers. The writing style is specific but navigable, and the illustrations are inspiring. Two of my favorite and often-referenced themes from this book: that people in the past (or in less industrialized societies) weren't any less resourceful or intelligent--their amazing feats of ingenuity survive on.
And the brick, designed to fit in the hand, has been the foundation of some of the most incredible structures of all time.

An excellent read for those interested in architecture or construction techniques. It is also a valuable resource for those interested in understanding historical technologies.