Here is a sample of architecture-related books that are new to Gleeson Library. To view additional titles, see New Architecture Books on the library website.
FABRIC[ated]: Fabric Innovation and Material Responsibility in Architecture
FABRIC[ated] explores fabric’s role as a catalyst for innovation and transformation in architecture. The book examines how fabric research and development has influenced architectural design, teaching, and practice. It highlights fabric’s responsive, flexible, and adaptive qualities, offering innovative solutions and increased material responsibility. The text is divided into foundation and theory chapters, followed by case studies of 14 international projects categorized under Veiling, Compression, and Tension. These projects showcase diverse applications of fabric in architecture, from concrete forming to building skins, demonstrating new methods for addressing sustainability and social justice. The book appeals to both students and practitioners, providing pedagogical and practical models for fabric use in architecture.
Building Bad: How Architectural Utility Is Constrained by Politics and Damaged by Expression
The author contends that architectural functionality is constrained by political and economic forces while being undermined by expressive modes. Utilitarian elements like windows may conflict with energy conservation goals, while expressive systems can overshadow practical considerations. Politics and economics set boundaries for utilitarian functions, evaluated based on wealth accumulation in a competitive global economy. Simultaneously, artistic sensibilities driven by competition often lead to impractical building forms. This tension between functionality, economic constraints, and artistic expression creates a complex interplay in architectural design, challenging architects to balance practical needs with aesthetic and symbolic values.
The Women Who Changed Architecture
“The Women Who Changed Architecture” is a comprehensive visual chronicle showcasing over 100 influential women in architecture from the 19th century to the present day. The book highlights pioneers like Marion Mahony Griffin, who passed the architectural licensure exam in 1898 and contributed significantly to Frank Lloyd Wright’s reputation through her exquisite drawings. It also features contemporary leaders such as MacArthur Fellow Jeanne Gang, who focuses on sustainable design and equitable urban spaces. This essential resource offers in-depth profiles and stunning images, illustrating the transformative impact of women on the field of architecture worldwide.
Fake Heritage: Why We Rebuild Monuments
“Fake Heritage” explores the global phenomenon of replicated historical landmarks and artifacts. John Darlington examines various examples, from replica Eiffel Towers to reconstructed ancient cities, discussing the ethical implications and consequences of fabricating cultural heritage. The book delves into the complexities of historical authenticity, distinguishing between blatant frauds and respectful homages. It also addresses the challenges of faithful recreations and the impact of modern technology on our perception of history. Through stunning visuals and insightful analysis, Darlington reveals how the duplication of heritage raises intriguing questions about our relationship with the past.
World Architecture and Society: From Stonehenge to One World Trade Center
This two-volume encyclopedia explores globally significant buildings and sites throughout history, divided into four regional sections: the Americas, Europe, Africa and the Middle East, and Asia and the Pacific. It features regional essays examining architectural development across time and cultures. Entries highlight the unique importance of structures like Stonehenge and Angkor Wat, as well as broader building traditions such as Spanish colonial missions and medieval Islamic universities. The encyclopedia also includes remarkable stories of architectural achievement and memory, like Tuskegee University and the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park, focusing on both architectural aspects and social significance.
The Architecture of Disability: Buildings, Cities, and Landscapes Beyond Access
“The Architecture of Disability” by David Gissen proposes a radical shift in architectural thinking, placing disability at the core of design rather than as an afterthought. Gissen argues that physical capacity should be fundamental to spatial conception, challenging the conventional approach of merely accommodating disabilities. By examining historical sites and urban spaces, he demonstrates how disability has always influenced architecture. The book advocates for integrating disabled perspectives into architectural production, reimagining the field’s foundations and moving beyond traditional accessibility concepts. This approach offers a new lens to understand and create built environments that truly embrace human diversity.
Building America: The Life of Benjamin Henry Latrobe
Benjamin Henry Latrobe, America’s first professional architect, left an indelible mark on the new republic’s landscape. An English émigré, Latrobe contributed to iconic structures like the US Capitol, White House, and Navy Yard, creating neoclassical interiors that embodied American democracy. He also designed engineering projects to unite the nation and improve public health. Despite his genius and efforts to establish architecture as a respected profession, Latrobe faced financial struggles throughout his career. Jean Baker’s “Building America” portrays Latrobe as a charming yet driven figure who played a crucial role in shaping the American aesthetic during the early years of the United States.
Vernacular Architecture: Critical and Primary Sources
“Vernacular Architecture: Critical and Primary Sources” is a comprehensive four-volume collection of essential readings on traditional building cultures worldwide. Spanning 200 years of scholarship, it offers a framework for understanding vernacular architecture studies. The volumes trace the field’s evolution from rural, romantic interpretations to contemporary, interdisciplinary perspectives. This collection connects historical insights to modern urban challenges, making it valuable for scholars, professionals, and policymakers. It serves as a crucial resource for architecture, conservation, planning, material culture, art history, geography, and heritage studies.
Manual of Biogenic House Sections
This book explores sustainable house construction using materials that sequester carbon or have low embodied carbon. It showcases 55 modern houses built with wood, bamboo, straw, hemp, cork, earth, brick, stone, and recycled materials. The book presents detailed cross-sectional drawings, exploded axonometrics, and photographs of each house, demonstrating how these materials influence architectural design. By focusing on modest-sized homes and their role in architectural experimentation, the book aims to transform current building practices and promote environmentally conscious construction for a more sustainable future.
Inventor of the Future: The Visionary Life of Buckminster Fuller
Alec Nevala-Lee’s “Inventor of the Future” is a comprehensive biography of Buckminster Fuller, the visionary designer and futurist renowned for the geodesic dome. The book explores Fuller’s revolutionary approach to design problems, his concept of Spaceship Earth, and his influence on sustainability and technology. Nevala-Lee delves into Fuller’s most famous inventions, his relationships with notable figures, and his tumultuous personal life. Drawing from extensive research and interviews, the biography offers a nuanced portrait of Fuller’s career, challenging the myth of him as an otherworldly generalist. It highlights Fuller’s enduring legacy and the continued relevance of his ideas in today’s rapidly changing world.
Book summaries composed with AI-assistance.