Customer Reviews

Simon and Schuster's Pocket Guide to Architecture (A Fireside book)

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I just finished showing this text to a number of my architecture students, and did a search for the availability. Horrors !!! It is out of print ! How dare they !
This is probably one of the nicest "pocket" compilations dealing with the history of architecture that I have used both academically and professionally. The organization of the text is in accordance with Architectural Periods, each of which is broken down nicely. Clear, concise descriptions are provided for each period, as well as for those buildings, styles, architects, and details that are featured for each.
There are numerous line drawings throughout the text, which are of such a fine and delicate nature, that I would suggest that this text is on par with Bannister Fletcher's History of Architecture, if for no other reason, then for the quality of the printing.
If you find a copy, buy it !

I've had my copy of this excellent, compact, little pocket guide for 20 years now. When I travel, it goes in either my briefcase or suitcase. When I arrive, it finds its way to my coat pocket.

First, it is a dense little review of the history of architecture for the non-professional or student. Actually, it is an excellent refresher for anyone with an interest in the subject. The range is from the first Mesopotamian and Egyptian civilizations, to the Greeks and Romans, to South Asia, China and Japan, Islam, to Pre-Hispanic America. You get concise historical overviews concerning the architectural history of the specific region, illustrated by excellent, crisp, jewel-like line drawings of both entire structures (exteriors, floor plans, and cut-away views) and smaller details.

The Architecture of the West is especially (though by no means exclusively) covered with individual sections covering: Early Christian and Byzantine styles, Romanesque, Gothic, Italian Renaissance, Baroque and Neo-Classicism, the Nineteenth Century, Foundations of Modern, and Modern. In addition, the index references the architectural landmarks of the world nation by nation (with reference to specific structure, architect, and city.)

A symbol system is used to quickly indicate if an entry is 1) not to be overlooked, 2) particularly beautiful or dramatic, or 3) in ruins.

The Simon and Schuster edition is especially nice with its trim, durable vinyl cover- it lasts forever.