Old-House Dictionary: An Illustrated Guide to American Domestic Architecture (1600-1940) [Paperback]

Steven J. Phillips (Author)

Book Description

Series: 1600-1940 | Publication Date: June 1, 1992

Old-House Dictionary From a One Room Cabin to a Beaux-Arts Mansion. Here's a concise and easily understandable architectural dictionary for professionals and amateurs alike. More than 450 illustrations, 1500 terms, 750 definitions, and 17 useful cross references guide you smoothly through the oftentimes confusing language of American domestic architecture. Who is This Dictionary For?
* Architects and Architectural Historians
* Preservationists
* Building Trades Professionals
* Interior Designers
* High School and College Students
* Old Home Owners and Lovers

Editorial Reviews

From Library Journal

This is a concise and easily understood glossary to building elements associated with American domestic architecture. More than 1500 terms are defined in 750 alphabetically arranged entries; the 456 line drawings are clear, simple, and effective. Related terms are grouped together for ease of use, e.g., "brick (types)" describes 21 common varieties of brick. Entries often provide synonyms and variant usages, as well as page numbers for relevant illustrations. An appendix lists many of the book's terms under 18 broad subject headings (fireplaces, joinery, walls, etc.). Architectural dictionaries are typically international in scope or specialized in the inclusion of construction techniques and tools. This work is neither, but will serve well as a companion to guides that focus on the architecture of American houses.
- Douglas G. Birdsall, North Dakota State Univ. Lib., Fargo
Copyright 1989 Reed Business Information, Inc. --This text refers to an out of print or unavailable edition of this title.

Review

"Aimed at the casual viewer of American docmestic architecture as well as the student, architect, or professional restorer, the 750-plus definitions presented in this attractive little volume are admirably concise and clear, often illustrated with uncommonly sharp drawings. These are often in considerable detail and variety, such as brickwork (bonding), which has a a general definition and then definitions and illustrations of 13 different patterns (noting synonyms where appropriate). There are many cross-references within the text. There is also a notable feature titled "Cross References" in which terms one might not immediately recall are gathered under 17 headings as an aid to locating a specific entry. For example, under wall there are dozens of terms, including corbiestep, quoins, and vega. There is a considerable bibliography and a detailed index which includes all those synonyms. One way or another the user will find the needed term." -- American Reference Books Annual 1990

See all Editorial Reviews

Product Details

• Paperback: 240 pages
• Publisher: Wiley; 1 edition (June 1, 1992)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 047114407X
• ISBN-13: 978-0471144076
• Product Dimensions: 9 x 6 x 0.6 inches
• Shipping Weight: 13.6 ounces (View shipping rates and policies)
• Average Customer Review: 4.0 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (1 customer review)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #1,200,599 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

More About the Author

Discover books, learn about writers, read author blogs, and more.

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

4.0 out of 5 stars Book review, December 28, 2008

By 

The Bone Lady (southern California) - See all my reviews

This review is from: Old-House Dictionary: An Illustrated Guide to American Domestic Architecture (1600-1940) (Paperback)

Handy little reference. I recommend it for any architectural historian's personal library. You will use it.