Customer Reviews

A Living Tradition [Architecture of the Bahamas]

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What intrigues me most about "A Living Tradition" is that Mouzon commits to an examination of Bahamian Architecture from within the experience to create patterns for modern development. Most contemporary new-town developments in The Bahamas borrow their "patterns" and impose them from other places, as an eclectic mix of style and character, without the common-sense examination of the purpose for those "patterns" in the first place.

Several volumes, particularly Christopher Alexander's "A Pattern Language" and "A Timeless Way of Building", serve to open our eyes to see the universal principles of beauty which we often take for granted, in the most modest places which we love so much. Stephen Mouzon focuses on the lessons of Bahamian Architectural heritage, in particular, to not only speak to the Bahamian architectural legacy, but celebrate the connections to the broader regional, universal and global patrimony.

What is ironic is that the encounter of civilizations of the Americas, Africa, and Europe that began the modern phenomenon of "globilization" over 500 years ago, began on one of these tiny islands we now know as The Bahamas. To quote Steven Mouzon, "We believe architecture based on the Bahamas' combination of climate, culture, and conditions should be the starting point for the beginning of a new tradition because it clearly can be Most-Loved by the culture in which it is built. We also believe it should be the starting point because no other architecture comes close to responding to the climate and conditions of the region."

As a reference, the hundreds of colour photographs, hand sketches, and analysis is a most invaluable document, but as tool for the builder, the home owner, and the designer, this is a brilliant contribution to the ongoing conversation on architecture.

A compelling analysis of traditional construction principles that evolved in a warm coastal climate. Following the approach developed in his previous books, Stephen Mouzon explains the logic and purpose of Bahamian vernacular architecture in a clear and comprehensive manner.

It is a reference book with a broad scope; from plan forms, through the major elements such as roofs, porches, windows, gardens, etc., to a catalogue of traditional details. There are also photographs of current examples, notable ruins, and a set of 19C watercolours of Nassau.

Traditional architectural patterns are presented as rational and appropriate for their location, and therefore provide a sense of belonging and unique quality of living both in the public and private realms. As in all good architectural approaches, there are rules, but also much variety within those rules.

A Living Tradition is enjoyable for anyone interested in architecture; it is essential reading for developers, house owners, architects, town planners and building professionals.

Regardless of one's geographic location, "A Living Tradition, Architecture of the Bahamas" is an inspiration. Though a definitive work and careful documentation of traditional Bahamian architecture, I believe this book to be an essential educational tool for anyone anywhere interested in the esthetic and structural use of natural materials and sustainable design.
The text is full of practical applications of great use to the architect but completely understandable to layman...nothing complicated here. And the photos are fabulous...supporting the points so eloquently described in the text.
One cannot help but look at their own surroundings, anywhere in the world, with a more educated and appreciative eye after spending time reading this delightful book.