Understanding Architecture

Attractively and abundantly illustrated on every page, this two-volume reference constitutes an introductory survey and visual sampler useful to a general audience and to students of architecture, art history, or urban planning. The treatment is not in-depth, but the scope is broad, with a two-page spread consisting of text and photos devoted to each of some 150 topics. (Library of Congress, seemingly in error, has identified the set as juvenile literature.) The first volume covers basic ideas about the nature and function of architecture and architectural design as well as the specifics of various kinds of buildings, styles (from antiquity to the present), and techniques, materials, and structures (e.g. the arch, the dome). The second volume focuses on civilizations, architectural achievements, and outstanding figures. Original publication was in Italian (2003: Giunti Editore S.p.A.). Annotation ©2004 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)