Customer Reviews

Mechanical and Electrical Equipment for Buildings

5 star:		(7)
4 star:		(2)
3 star:		(2)
2 star:		(1)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

I have been referencing past editions of this book for years. It's the bible to architects for understanding this subject matter. It covers more then the title suggests including overall design strategy for site and building, passive design for the building environment, acoustics, illumination and day-lighting, water conservations systems, vertical building transportation systems and design, fire protection and suppression design, along with the active mechanical and electrical systems design and equipment technology that the title suggests. It is one of the core reference books for the architect's library and others related to building construction. This new addition updates to the latest technology, and sustainable design practices. Another great book for passive design related to building arrangement and form is Sun, Wind & Light: Architectural Design Strategies, 2nd Edition

As someone who is a cross between an architectural engineer and an architect, I wanted a book that I could reference to assist me in design considerations not necessarily covered in the courses I have taken in college, and I wanted it in one volume. This book is by far the best book I have purchased to assist me with aspects that apply to designing buildings with respect to the building systems. I only wish I could convince my current and past instructors to use this book because, as I describe it to my peers, it is "5 or more text books in one, for less than most text books." I am serious about that statement. I literally have at least 5 books on my shelf that are condensed into this one massive book, where the same information is represented in a logical manner, and concepts are better expanded in ways that are very easy to follow. I have been very impressed with the book, and it is my new standard for what I expect in a quality reference source.

Very helpful in professional activities. For example, the amount of waste generated in different buildings - in this book you can find almost everything about it and not look ridiculous yourself designing too small rooms for waste. It is very interesting the great summary of the various walls in terms of fire and acoustic ... and a little more other cool stuff.

Yes, this book is heavy. Yes, it is over 1500 pages long, however, this book is an absolute must have for the architectural registration exams! In addition to the book, I highly recommend going to the publishers website for the companion student information that give case profiles, summaries, and terms.

Let's be honest, this book is huge. It is absolutely miserable to haul back and forth to class and studio. However, it is absolutely necessary. So far, it is the best resource I have found for doing calculations for solar positions, hvac systems, elevators, and just about everything else.

I have an 8th edition at my shelves and I have been loving it for years. In anticipating to updating my knowledge I ordered this latest version. This edition did not meet my expectation and many areas could be done better. For electrical design part, it is still referring NEC 1999!

This is as thorough a resource as one can find on the subject. A great compilation of the most essential information regarding all building system types. A must have, even for those with earlier editions.

this book is perfect for any architecture student/architect
it not only gives you the basics of everything you need to know mechanical or electrical wise, but also the details.

This book is an endless supply of knowledge... Too much for my brain.
Organized very well. User friendly. Easy to follow.

Densely written and way more detailed than we needed for our class in Architecture school. Not easy to read but if you need all the details of HVAC systems including every calculation you need, it's the right book. I've recommended that our prof choose a different book in the future as there are better ones for architecture students who don't need the full mech engineering detail.