Description: As architecture programs throughout the country break out of the classroom and adopt the holistic methods of design/build programs, the need for a textbook that bridges the gap between construction materials and design sensibility is sorely needed. Materials for Design is that book. Students must be taught how a choice of material affects the form and look of a structure; they must also learn how inspired design can inject any material with true personality and zeal. Broken into five sections-glass, wood, metals, plastics, and concrete-Materials for Design makes a thorough study of each material's properties, followed by a series of 10-12 case studies of that material put to imaginative use by today's brightest architects from around the world. There is no other textbook on the market that tackles material details so thoroughly while presenting lush, inspired color photographs, plan drawings, and detailed architectural diagrams.
Details: thing you wont see in avery book, they go further, projects not that known wich is great
Review Summary: Best overall
Date: 2008-09-23
Details: This is one of the best materials books I've been able to find. It provides thorough descriptions of the history, development and manufacturing of numerous materials (traditional and non traditional) in addition to useful applications and proper techniques all in one very well crafted book. An essential for student and practicing architects as well as anyone involved in interiors, environmental design, industrial design, graphic design...
Review Summary: Helpful
Date: 2008-04-17
Details: It is really a nice book. The definitions for each material are clearly represented. The case studies are up to date. I like the demonstration of all of the details.
Review Summary: book worth buying
Date: 2007-09-22
Details: I highly recommend this book. I am an architecture student, and I have found this book to be interesting, useful, and full of great projects. The book does a nice job of talking about the history, uses, strengths, and weaknesses of building materials. The book is organized by material with building projects that utilize those particular materials in an innovating and interesting way. The photos are great and the detail drawings are very nice to see as well.
Review Summary: A great resource for technical info AND design inspiration
Date: 2007-08-27
Details: I absolutely agree with the two previous reviews-- it is a seamless combination of technical info and aesthetics. The book was recommended in my Masters of Architecture program by the Construction-I professor and since then it has been circulating widely in the design studios. It is a great resource for material detailing AND design inspiration. Wa-hoo-wa, Victoria Bell, great job.
out of 7 Reviews
