Introduces architecture and how architects work by tracing each step in the building of an imaginary house, from the initial idea to the development of plans to the point where the architect can pass the designs to a contractor.

"John Roderick's architectural memoir Minka tells the compelling and often poignant story of how one man fell in love with the people, culture, and ancient building traditions of Japan, and reminds us all about the importance of craftsmanship and the meaning of place and home in the process."--Publisher's description.

An accessible guide to the most important ideas and developments in the history of architecture, and the people behind them.

"Combining the enigma of the Pyramids with legends of human attempts to ascend like gods to Heaven in search of immortality, [Sitchin] delves into the lives of the pharaohs of Egypt, who taught how to travel the Route of the Gods to the "eternal afterlife"; to the Sumerian king Gilgamesh, who journeyed to distant lands in his quest to "scale heaven" and ward off his mortal fate; Alexander the Great, who believed he was actually the son of a god; and...

High up in mountains around the world, houses that have long been constructed following local building traditions are being transformed. Intrepid young architects using new technologies and materials are refashioning these traditions, with results that range from gemutlich (cozy) retreats to glamorous hilltop villas. Houses are presented in three sections: Cabin, Chalet, and Villa. Photographs of each house reveal its architecture, interior design,...

Hanok: The Korean House provides new insights into the stylish traditional homes (hanok) that are increasingly popular in Seoul today. While the exteriors of these homes are indistinguishable from traditional hanok built decades ago, the interiors have completely changed and have been adapted in keeping with the times. Korea is a nation that has radically transformed itself in recent decades, yet amidst the glass-and-steel skyscrapers and luxury apartments,...