Architecture Books

Book SynopsisThe last twenty years have seen fascinating developments in the nature of collaboration between artists and architects and in the approaches taken by artists making work intended for public spaces. These sophisticated projects go far beyond the standard 'art for architecture' remit, limited as it is to the addition of 'artworks' to already designed buildings, the work described here invites us to rethink the reputation that public art has acquired over the years amongst both the public and the artists themselves. Timely and wide-ranging, "Art and Architecture" explores the proliferation of recent pioneering work by both artists and architects that seeks to blur traditional boundaries between the two fields. Looking back to precedents in land and community art by artists from Robert Smithson and Walter de Maria to Mierle Laderman Ukeles and Joseph Beuys, Rendell discusses international projects by artists including Tacita Dean, Krzysztof Wodiczko, Paul Pfeiffer and Rachel Whiteread and architects as varied as Rem Koolhaas, Daniel Libeskind, Diller + Scofidio and Shigeru Ban. She visits 'site-specific' artworks, interventions into existing buildings, galleries operating outside their physical limits and the best of collaborations between the fields. More than a survey, however, "Art and Architecture" also draws on the work of thinkers from Walter Benjamin to Michel de Certeau to probe the meanings of place, space and site.Trade ReviewCONTEMPORARY 'Rendell attends to the task with excellent clarity and the diligence characteristic of a historian and a critic set on grouping together phenomena and teasing out from these groupings common ground and distinctions from which new conceptual frameworks can begin to emerge...her argument is well structured and presented eloquently in a way that at once reframes the debate for the weathered reader while remaining accessible to those who are fresh for it' ARCHITECTURE TODAY Nothing quotable. BD (BUILDING DESIGN) Nothing quotable.

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Book SynopsisGreek Architecture is a clearly structured discussion of all the major buildings constructed by the Greeks, from houses to temples, theatres to council buildings. The book describes particular architectural styles and features and sets the buildings in their context, with an evaluation of their purpose, siting and planning. From prehistoric settlements of Troy, the Minoan palaces of Crete and their counterparts in the Mycenean kingdoms, to the absorption of Hellenism into the Roman Empire, the book pays particular attention to the early period, supplying a large-scale account of the development of pre-Hellenic building. It goes on to trace the evolution of temples and other religious buildings, the history of town planning and civic building, the development of the theatre and techniques in masonry, vaulting and fortification. With over forty illustrations enhancing the text, the book provides an informed and comprehensive view of the design and function of buildings in ancient Greece.Table of ContentsList of Illustrations 1. Introduction 2. The Early Development of Classical Temples 3. Temples of the Classical Period 4. Other types of Building 5. Buildings in their Context - Sanctuaries 6. Buildings in their Context - Cities Suggestions for Further Study Suggestions for Further Reading Glossary of Technical Terms

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Book SynopsisBahrain consists of a group of islands in the Arabian Gulf. Bahrain boasts several civilizations stretching over five thousand years. The deep Arab roots meant that they traditionally had an embedded Arab culture and traditions. This is a unique book focusing on the designs and architecture of old Bahraini traditional village houses. The book focuses on how the old Bahraini builders demonstrated such workmanship and use of local materials to build marvelous designs and architecture to suit their way of life and traditions. The book is divided into Sixteen chapters. Each chapter describes with unique images how centuries old village traditions and religious thinking were reflected in the design of these houses. This book is an excellent reference for people with different professions and interests such as historians, architects, artists and designers, who are interested in the traditions, culture and history of beautiful Bahrain. The book will also be of interest to Bahrainis who want to read and view memories of their villages and how their ancestors used to live.

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