A perfect Christmas present, 14 Nov 2008
Just when the world seems to be collapsing in economic ruin, Mount gives us a book-full of reasons to take pleasure in what we see around us. I'll be buying several copies to give to people this Christmas - and I expect to see this charming, clever, hugely entertaining tome popping up in people's homes for years to come. Mount has staked a powerful claim to be the James Lees-Milne of our time.

A Lust for Intelligence, 04 Nov 2008
Mount is to be congratulated on producing a study which is lucid and funny, and equally useful to the amateur fan as well as the architectural expert. His great gift is to make what is (too often) solemn great fun. He did it with Latin; now he has done it with buildings.

A perfect Christmas present, 14 Nov 2008
Just when the world seems to be collapsing in economic ruin, Mount gives us a book-full of reasons to take pleasure in what we see around us. I'll be buying several copies to give to people this Christmas - and I expect to see this charming, clever, hugely entertaining tome popping up in people's homes for years to come. Mount has staked a powerful claim to be the James Lees-Milne of our time.

A Lust for Intelligence, 04 Nov 2008
Mount is to be congratulated on producing a study which is lucid and funny, and equally useful to the amateur fan as well as the architectural expert. His great gift is to make what is (too often) solemn great fun. He did it with Latin; now he has done it with buildings.

Invaluable..., 23 Oct 2008
Received the book yesterday and my husband (who's an architect), hasn't been able to put it down. He thinks it's brilliant, informative and concise, he's using it now for work he's doing. Would recommend it to any student or Architect who needs reference in an easy to read format.

A book to literally be kept in the pocket, 29 May 2008
Being an architecture student I keep this book with me whenever I am working on projects, be it at work or at university. It is unbelievable how much information Baden-Powell has managed to cram into this tiny book. Among others, some of the topics covered in the book are common furniture sizes, staircases, brick types, soil, wheelchair user space requirements and even drainage, heating and lightbulbs! This book really is a MUST if you are in the architectural field and even if you aren't this book is useful for anyone doing any kind of construction, design or engineering. I would not have survived my degree without this book since it has lots of very useful, "must-know" information which may take ages to find!

An excellent book, you won't be disappointed.

Very handy, 05 Apr 2008
I've referred to this almost every day. It's been even more useful than the Metric Handbook.

An Essential for Pocket or Toolbox, 22 Aug 2004
.
If you are in any way involved in construction on a domestic scale, the Architect's Pocket Book is a must.

It evolved from a set of notes used by the author, collating the diverse practical information regularly required in her work as an architect. So many friends requested copies that she ditched the photocopier in favour of a publishing deal, and thank heaven she did! Nowhere else can you find concise notes that cover the whole spectrum of information needed for smaller projects.

The book is divided into six sections, namely General Information, Planning, Structures, Services, Building Elements and Materials. There is also an appendix containing addresses, a list of sources and an index followed by a few pages for your own scribbles. Within the sections you find a wealth of information, tables and diagrams that cover such useful topics as drawing conventions, anthropometric data, weight of materials, safe loads on subsoils, concrete mixes, lintel sizes, beam formulae, heat loss, timber stress grade tables, types of nails, identifying wood boring beetles, plasterboard dimensions and much, much more.

The book measures 185mm x 125mm x 17mm thick and has 305 pages. Whether you are an architect, developer, student, interior designer, builder, or DIY enthusiast, this book will be relevant and of great practical use to you. My copy is a trusted and well thumbed friend.

Students need this!, 20 Apr 2004
Not just useful for architecture, i am an interior design student at uni.Its not all about decorating you know and I wouldnt have survived my1styear without the help of this book. Especially because I havent come froman architectural background I did find it hard but this book helped loadz!

A perfect Christmas present, 14 Nov 2008
Just when the world seems to be collapsing in economic ruin, Mount gives us a book-full of reasons to take pleasure in what we see around us. I'll be buying several copies to give to people this Christmas - and I expect to see this charming, clever, hugely entertaining tome popping up in people's homes for years to come. Mount has staked a powerful claim to be the James Lees-Milne of our time.

A Lust for Intelligence, 04 Nov 2008
Mount is to be congratulated on producing a study which is lucid and funny, and equally useful to the amateur fan as well as the architectural expert. His great gift is to make what is (too often) solemn great fun. He did it with Latin; now he has done it with buildings.

Invaluable..., 23 Oct 2008
Received the book yesterday and my husband (who's an architect), hasn't been able to put it down. He thinks it's brilliant, informative and concise, he's using it now for work he's doing. Would recommend it to any student or Architect who needs reference in an easy to read format.

A book to literally be kept in the pocket, 29 May 2008
Being an architecture student I keep this book with me whenever I am working on projects, be it at work or at university. It is unbelievable how much information Baden-Powell has managed to cram into this tiny book. Among others, some of the topics covered in the book are common furniture sizes, staircases, brick types, soil, wheelchair user space requirements and even drainage, heating and lightbulbs! This book really is a MUST if you are in the architectural field and even if you aren't this book is useful for anyone doing any kind of construction, design or engineering. I would not have survived my degree without this book since it has lots of very useful, "must-know" information which may take ages to find!

An excellent book, you won't be disappointed.

Very handy, 05 Apr 2008
I've referred to this almost every day. It's been even more useful than the Metric Handbook.

An Essential for Pocket or Toolbox, 22 Aug 2004
.
If you are in any way involved in construction on a domestic scale, the Architect's Pocket Book is a must.

It evolved from a set of notes used by the author, collating the diverse practical information regularly required in her work as an architect. So many friends requested copies that she ditched the photocopier in favour of a publishing deal, and thank heaven she did! Nowhere else can you find concise notes that cover the whole spectrum of information needed for smaller projects.

The book is divided into six sections, namely General Information, Planning, Structures, Services, Building Elements and Materials. There is also an appendix containing addresses, a list of sources and an index followed by a few pages for your own scribbles. Within the sections you find a wealth of information, tables and diagrams that cover such useful topics as drawing conventions, anthropometric data, weight of materials, safe loads on subsoils, concrete mixes, lintel sizes, beam formulae, heat loss, timber stress grade tables, types of nails, identifying wood boring beetles, plasterboard dimensions and much, much more.

The book measures 185mm x 125mm x 17mm thick and has 305 pages. Whether you are an architect, developer, student, interior designer, builder, or DIY enthusiast, this book will be relevant and of great practical use to you. My copy is a trusted and well thumbed friend.

Students need this!, 20 Apr 2004
Not just useful for architecture, i am an interior design student at uni.Its not all about decorating you know and I wouldnt have survived my1styear without the help of this book. Especially because I havent come froman architectural background I did find it hard but this book helped loadz!

Not amazing but better than the rest!, 01 Feb 2007
Here is an area where the old school of design still lingers, the book is very suitable for specific tasks but really needs improving on. Having said that I threw away my copy of Charlotte Baden-Powell's book as soon as I got this - because even this tome is much more useable than hers.

Must-have reference book, 23 Oct 2006
This is a valuable pool of infomation on ergonomics, minimum dimensions, information on parking, vehicle dimensions, building dimensions, design of buildings for different purposes and much, much more. I probably have only used about a tenth of the information within the book (I don't have much use for info on airport design, for example) but we use it regularly in our office as a reference book and should we ever need to know the dimensions of a cow, we know just where to look....

solid!, 08 Oct 2004
With data on all kinds of programmatic requirements and some valuable information on structures and materials this is a book architecture students should BORROW from the library or the office. This book can tell you the minimum ceiling height of a badminton court or the density of steel - but it won't design your project!

Planning & Design Data Marvel!, 05 Nov 2003
An exceedingly thorough compilation of all those annoying facts and figures you can never remember or find any where else! This book is always open at the end of my desk, and I now have to fight for it with my colleagues to get to the information. No project or facilities manager, specification writer or other member of the construction industry should be without it!

A bit of a let down, 07 Apr 2000
This is one of the most important books for architects and other associated professions. This copy has been extensively updated, which is to be highly commended, however, the information on acoustics and heat loss seem quite shoddy. Equations are misprinted and the cross-referencing within the sections is confusing at times baring little or no correlation to the worked examples. I only hope the other sections are not subject to the same inaccuracies.

A perfect Christmas present, 14 Nov 2008
Just when the world seems to be collapsing in economic ruin, Mount gives us a book-full of reasons to take pleasure in what we see around us. I'll be buying several copies to give to people this Christmas - and I expect to see this charming, clever, hugely entertaining tome popping up in people's homes for years to come. Mount has staked a powerful claim to be the James Lees-Milne of our time.

A Lust for Intelligence, 04 Nov 2008
Mount is to be congratulated on producing a study which is lucid and funny, and equally useful to the amateur fan as well as the architectural expert. His great gift is to make what is (too often) solemn great fun. He did it with Latin; now he has done it with buildings.

Invaluable..., 23 Oct 2008
Received the book yesterday and my husband (who's an architect), hasn't been able to put it down. He thinks it's brilliant, informative and concise, he's using it now for work he's doing. Would recommend it to any student or Architect who needs reference in an easy to read format.

A book to literally be kept in the pocket, 29 May 2008
Being an architecture student I keep this book with me whenever I am working on projects, be it at work or at university. It is unbelievable how much information Baden-Powell has managed to cram into this tiny book. Among others, some of the topics covered in the book are common furniture sizes, staircases, brick types, soil, wheelchair user space requirements and even drainage, heating and lightbulbs! This book really is a MUST if you are in the architectural field and even if you aren't this book is useful for anyone doing any kind of construction, design or engineering. I would not have survived my degree without this book since it has lots of very useful, "must-know" information which may take ages to find!

An excellent book, you won't be disappointed.

Very handy, 05 Apr 2008
I've referred to this almost every day. It's been even more useful than the Metric Handbook.

An Essential for Pocket or Toolbox, 22 Aug 2004
.
If you are in any way involved in construction on a domestic scale, the Architect's Pocket Book is a must.

It evolved from a set of notes used by the author, collating the diverse practical information regularly required in her work as an architect. So many friends requested copies that she ditched the photocopier in favour of a publishing deal, and thank heaven she did! Nowhere else can you find concise notes that cover the whole spectrum of information needed for smaller projects.

The book is divided into six sections, namely General Information, Planning, Structures, Services, Building Elements and Materials. There is also an appendix containing addresses, a list of sources and an index followed by a few pages for your own scribbles. Within the sections you find a wealth of information, tables and diagrams that cover such useful topics as drawing conventions, anthropometric data, weight of materials, safe loads on subsoils, concrete mixes, lintel sizes, beam formulae, heat loss, timber stress grade tables, types of nails, identifying wood boring beetles, plasterboard dimensions and much, much more.

The book measures 185mm x 125mm x 17mm thick and has 305 pages. Whether you are an architect, developer, student, interior designer, builder, or DIY enthusiast, this book will be relevant and of great practical use to you. My copy is a trusted and well thumbed friend.

Students need this!, 20 Apr 2004
Not just useful for architecture, i am an interior design student at uni.Its not all about decorating you know and I wouldnt have survived my1styear without the help of this book. Especially because I havent come froman architectural background I did find it hard but this book helped loadz!

Not amazing but better than the rest!, 01 Feb 2007
Here is an area where the old school of design still lingers, the book is very suitable for specific tasks but really needs improving on. Having said that I threw away my copy of Charlotte Baden-Powell's book as soon as I got this - because even this tome is much more useable than hers.

Must-have reference book, 23 Oct 2006
This is a valuable pool of infomation on ergonomics, minimum dimensions, information on parking, vehicle dimensions, building dimensions, design of buildings for different purposes and much, much more. I probably have only used about a tenth of the information within the book (I don't have much use for info on airport design, for example) but we use it regularly in our office as a reference book and should we ever need to know the dimensions of a cow, we know just where to look....

solid!, 08 Oct 2004
With data on all kinds of programmatic requirements and some valuable information on structures and materials this is a book architecture students should BORROW from the library or the office. This book can tell you the minimum ceiling height of a badminton court or the density of steel - but it won't design your project!

Planning & Design Data Marvel!, 05 Nov 2003
An exceedingly thorough compilation of all those annoying facts and figures you can never remember or find any where else! This book is always open at the end of my desk, and I now have to fight for it with my colleagues to get to the information. No project or facilities manager, specification writer or other member of the construction industry should be without it!

A bit of a let down, 07 Apr 2000
This is one of the most important books for architects and other associated professions. This copy has been extensively updated, which is to be highly commended, however, the information on acoustics and heat loss seem quite shoddy. Equations are misprinted and the cross-referencing within the sections is confusing at times baring little or no correlation to the worked examples. I only hope the other sections are not subject to the same inaccuracies.

Looks great, not such great text, 19 Dec 2006
A very attractive coffe table book, full of high quality images. However, in terms of garden design and maintenance it is a little bit specialist for my taste. Overall, this is one for the garden historian rather than the gardener. Btw - a previous review questions why gardens belonging to the National Trust for Scotland (NTS) aren't included in the book. I suspect it's because NTS is an entirely seperate organisation from the National Trust for England, Wales and Northern Ireland, rather than the author not rating gardens north of the border.



Great text and stunning photos, 12 Dec 2005
I found information on plant varieties, garden design and historical facts fascinating. The entry on Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal was particularly poignant for me, as it is probably my favourite National Trust garden (of the ones I've visited), and Stephen Lacey's text added to my enjoyment and memories of a sunny summer's day visit. Despite being mid-winter, it made me want to jump in the car and drive up to North Yorks to revel in the splendour of this garden.

This is a book to dip-in and out of before and after visiting National Trust properties. I'm keen for spring and summer to come round again to see these gardens at their best. To be honest, I may even brave the cold winter weather and go and see the winter face of some of my more local NT gardens.

The photography is undoubtedly stunning, and does these gardens full justice. More photography and books of this type please, National Trust.

It relies too heavily on the artwork., 02 Nov 2005
It seems that the author relies heavily on the startling photograhy in this book, perhaps he should concentrate his efforts elsewhere, as the text is neither here nor there.
I could not tune into this lacklustre offering at all.

A perfect Christmas present, 14 Nov 2008
Just when the world seems to be collapsing in economic ruin, Mount gives us a book-full of reasons to take pleasure in what we see around us. I'll be buying several copies to give to people this Christmas - and I expect to see this charming, clever, hugely entertaining tome popping up in people's homes for years to come. Mount has staked a powerful claim to be the James Lees-Milne of our time.

A Lust for Intelligence, 04 Nov 2008
Mount is to be congratulated on producing a study which is lucid and funny, and equally useful to the amateur fan as well as the architectural expert. His great gift is to make what is (too often) solemn great fun. He did it with Latin; now he has done it with buildings.

Invaluable..., 23 Oct 2008
Received the book yesterday and my husband (who's an architect), hasn't been able to put it down. He thinks it's brilliant, informative and concise, he's using it now for work he's doing. Would recommend it to any student or Architect who needs reference in an easy to read format.

A book to literally be kept in the pocket, 29 May 2008
Being an architecture student I keep this book with me whenever I am working on projects, be it at work or at university. It is unbelievable how much information Baden-Powell has managed to cram into this tiny book. Among others, some of the topics covered in the book are common furniture sizes, staircases, brick types, soil, wheelchair user space requirements and even drainage, heating and lightbulbs! This book really is a MUST if you are in the architectural field and even if you aren't this book is useful for anyone doing any kind of construction, design or engineering. I would not have survived my degree without this book since it has lots of very useful, "must-know" information which may take ages to find!

An excellent book, you won't be disappointed.

Very handy, 05 Apr 2008
I've referred to this almost every day. It's been even more useful than the Metric Handbook.

An Essential for Pocket or Toolbox, 22 Aug 2004
.
If you are in any way involved in construction on a domestic scale, the Architect's Pocket Book is a must.

It evolved from a set of notes used by the author, collating the diverse practical information regularly required in her work as an architect. So many friends requested copies that she ditched the photocopier in favour of a publishing deal, and thank heaven she did! Nowhere else can you find concise notes that cover the whole spectrum of information needed for smaller projects.

The book is divided into six sections, namely General Information, Planning, Structures, Services, Building Elements and Materials. There is also an appendix containing addresses, a list of sources and an index followed by a few pages for your own scribbles. Within the sections you find a wealth of information, tables and diagrams that cover such useful topics as drawing conventions, anthropometric data, weight of materials, safe loads on subsoils, concrete mixes, lintel sizes, beam formulae, heat loss, timber stress grade tables, types of nails, identifying wood boring beetles, plasterboard dimensions and much, much more.

The book measures 185mm x 125mm x 17mm thick and has 305 pages. Whether you are an architect, developer, student, interior designer, builder, or DIY enthusiast, this book will be relevant and of great practical use to you. My copy is a trusted and well thumbed friend.

Students need this!, 20 Apr 2004
Not just useful for architecture, i am an interior design student at uni.Its not all about decorating you know and I wouldnt have survived my1styear without the help of this book. Especially because I havent come froman architectural background I did find it hard but this book helped loadz!

Not amazing but better than the rest!, 01 Feb 2007
Here is an area where the old school of design still lingers, the book is very suitable for specific tasks but really needs improving on. Having said that I threw away my copy of Charlotte Baden-Powell's book as soon as I got this - because even this tome is much more useable than hers.

Must-have reference book, 23 Oct 2006
This is a valuable pool of infomation on ergonomics, minimum dimensions, information on parking, vehicle dimensions, building dimensions, design of buildings for different purposes and much, much more. I probably have only used about a tenth of the information within the book (I don't have much use for info on airport design, for example) but we use it regularly in our office as a reference book and should we ever need to know the dimensions of a cow, we know just where to look....

solid!, 08 Oct 2004
With data on all kinds of programmatic requirements and some valuable information on structures and materials this is a book architecture students should BORROW from the library or the office. This book can tell you the minimum ceiling height of a badminton court or the density of steel - but it won't design your project!

Planning & Design Data Marvel!, 05 Nov 2003
An exceedingly thorough compilation of all those annoying facts and figures you can never remember or find any where else! This book is always open at the end of my desk, and I now have to fight for it with my colleagues to get to the information. No project or facilities manager, specification writer or other member of the construction industry should be without it!

A bit of a let down, 07 Apr 2000
This is one of the most important books for architects and other associated professions. This copy has been extensively updated, which is to be highly commended, however, the information on acoustics and heat loss seem quite shoddy. Equations are misprinted and the cross-referencing within the sections is confusing at times baring little or no correlation to the worked examples. I only hope the other sections are not subject to the same inaccuracies.

Looks great, not such great text, 19 Dec 2006
A very attractive coffe table book, full of high quality images. However, in terms of garden design and maintenance it is a little bit specialist for my taste. Overall, this is one for the garden historian rather than the gardener. Btw - a previous review questions why gardens belonging to the National Trust for Scotland (NTS) aren't included in the book. I suspect it's because NTS is an entirely seperate organisation from the National Trust for England, Wales and Northern Ireland, rather than the author not rating gardens north of the border.



Great text and stunning photos, 12 Dec 2005
I found information on plant varieties, garden design and historical facts fascinating. The entry on Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal was particularly poignant for me, as it is probably my favourite National Trust garden (of the ones I've visited), and Stephen Lacey's text added to my enjoyment and memories of a sunny summer's day visit. Despite being mid-winter, it made me want to jump in the car and drive up to North Yorks to revel in the splendour of this garden.

This is a book to dip-in and out of before and after visiting National Trust properties. I'm keen for spring and summer to come round again to see these gardens at their best. To be honest, I may even brave the cold winter weather and go and see the winter face of some of my more local NT gardens.

The photography is undoubtedly stunning, and does these gardens full justice. More photography and books of this type please, National Trust.

It relies too heavily on the artwork., 02 Nov 2005
It seems that the author relies heavily on the startling photograhy in this book, perhaps he should concentrate his efforts elsewhere, as the text is neither here nor there.
I could not tune into this lacklustre offering at all.

An Authentic 5-star Original, 14 Jan 2008
Looking for a new book on London - for a friend rather than myself - I happened on this one and was persuaded by the fact that it's got so many five-star ratings. It arrived, and I could see why straightaway. At first it was the pictures which did it for me, classy monochrome shots, all clearly shot for this book. Then I started reading it, however, and was drawn in by the depth of knowledge, the huge scope - it takes in the suburbs as well as the centre - and most of all the author's writing style. Most obviously you really feel like you're there with him, on a privileged walk around the city, plus the buildings really are extraordinary - many I'd never even heard of let alone noticed - and so many of the stories about them are not just fascinating but wittily told in a way which really brings London alive.. The friend? Well she never got the book in the end because I kept it.

Coffee table tome meets un-put-downable read, 29 Sep 2006
If you thought you knew London, think again. David Long's book combines in-depth research, with a talent for quirky anecdote. Such human-interest brings the tasteful black and white photos to life and distinguishes Spectacular Vernacular from other, sometimes fusty, architectural manuals. It's easy to dip into as it deals with one building at a time - text facing photograph - so there's no need to flip back and forth between pages. Once your curiosity is piqued, however, it is hard to put down. Will appeal to Londoners, and visitors alike.

So THAT'S what that building is!, 06 Aug 2006
One of THE most imaginative books on the capital, which really does reach the parts other books don't. Ignores the obvious, and goes straight for the stuff you never even knew you wanted to know about. Lovely pics as well

Cabbies - so you think you have the knowledge ???, 30 Jul 2006
As a London Cabbie I pride myself on the knowledge I have not only of routes through and around London, but also the many interesting and different places hidden away or just not thought about as we pass along the busy thoroughfares of London. I think that the cabbies will like this one.

This is a book about London and its peculiar architecture, which we pass everyday in the cab without so much as a second glance. One hundred buildings are identified as being the strangest and enigmatic. The introduction describes London as lacking an urban masterplan and is shown in contrast to Nazi Berlin, Paris or even Babylon. London's chief glory lies not in the theatrical effect of triumphant avenues aligned along carefully drafted axes, or meticulously planned grid of street and square, but rather in its many historic and often highly individual buildings.So the introduction goes.

The book is full of excellent black and white photographs, that show the buildings in a light, which could not be done justice in colour strange as though they might seem. With each photograph most of which are full page, the author gives a brief pen portrait of each location, which includes a history.

The book has ten chapters and each section deals with a specific aspect of architecture. For example, in the first chapter entitled "Tudor Manor Born" the author introduces Abbot's House, Deans Yard, Westminster moving on to Albany and Piccadilly. Crosby Hall features and once we have read through the text we discover that Crosby Hall was moved brick by brick from the City to its current site in Chelsea in 1908. You will pass it on Cheyne Walk just after Danvers Street. There always seems to be something going on there and it looks as though the builders will be there for a while longer.

Not only does the book describe and illustrate interesting buildings within central London, the author also brings to our attention many other buildings which we might only know about if we lived in a particular locality. For example Severndroog Castle? Who? you might say. This is located in Castlewood Park, SE18. Many of us cabbies who did the knowledge will probably have seen the tower at Clock Tower Place N7. The story associated with this tower is that after several hundred years of cattle slaughter in the city it was decided to transfer the trading of livestock to Islington. The story goes that this market attracted the ne'er do wells and there was a large illegitimate trade attached to the market with thieves running alive. After the war it was knocked down for development and the more legitimate traders moved to Bermondsey. Hence the New Caledonian Market, which still exists today in Bermondsey Street by Long Lane.

There are many other illustrations and descriptions and the book would be an interesting addition to the bookshelves of those cab drivers who are interested in the aspects of London presented here. Most enjoyable and worth the purchase.



The Underbelly, 17 Jul 2006
An honest and real guide to the buildings that makes London what it is and isn't. It's also a partial explanation for why the English are who they are. Long's book in main avoids the standard tourist and more recognisable buildings but instead studies the buildings that really are unique and different. In short the 'extraordinary' buildings.

The interesting thing is that so many of the buildings in this book are those that you might have walked past once or twice or more and not realised just how unique or important they are.

If you want a tour of what London is really about architecturally and do it from your couch then this is a wonderful place to start. Or get off the couch and take it with you.

A fascinating insight.

A perfect Christmas present, 14 Nov 2008
Just when the world seems to be collapsing in economic ruin, Mount gives us a book-full of reasons to take pleasure in what we see around us. I'll be buying several copies to give to people this Christmas - and I expect to see this charming, clever, hugely entertaining tome popping up in people's homes for years to come. Mount has staked a powerful claim to be the James Lees-Milne of our time.

A Lust for Intelligence, 04 Nov 2008
Mount is to be congratulated on producing a study which is lucid and funny, and equally useful to the amateur fan as well as the architectural expert. His great gift is to make what is (too often) solemn great fun. He did it with Latin; now he has done it with buildings.

Invaluable..., 23 Oct 2008
Received the book yesterday and my husband (who's an architect), hasn't been able to put it down. He thinks it's brilliant, informative and concise, he's using it now for work he's doing. Would recommend it to any student or Architect who needs reference in an easy to read format.

A book to literally be kept in the pocket, 29 May 2008
Being an architecture student I keep this book with me whenever I am working on projects, be it at work or at university. It is unbelievable how much information Baden-Powell has managed to cram into this tiny book. Among others, some of the topics covered in the book are common furniture sizes, staircases, brick types, soil, wheelchair user space requirements and even drainage, heating and lightbulbs! This book really is a MUST if you are in the architectural field and even if you aren't this book is useful for anyone doing any kind of construction, design or engineering. I would not have survived my degree without this book since it has lots of very useful, "must-know" information which may take ages to find!

An excellent book, you won't be disappointed.

Very handy, 05 Apr 2008
I've referred to this almost every day. It's been even more useful than the Metric Handbook.

An Essential for Pocket or Toolbox, 22 Aug 2004
.
If you are in any way involved in construction on a domestic scale, the Architect's Pocket Book is a must.

It evolved from a set of notes used by the author, collating the diverse practical information regularly required in her work as an architect. So many friends requested copies that she ditched the photocopier in favour of a publishing deal, and thank heaven she did! Nowhere else can you find concise notes that cover the whole spectrum of information needed for smaller projects.

The book is divided into six sections, namely General Information, Planning, Structures, Services, Building Elements and Materials. There is also an appendix containing addresses, a list of sources and an index followed by a few pages for your own scribbles. Within the sections you find a wealth of information, tables and diagrams that cover such useful topics as drawing conventions, anthropometric data, weight of materials, safe loads on subsoils, concrete mixes, lintel sizes, beam formulae, heat loss, timber stress grade tables, types of nails, identifying wood boring beetles, plasterboard dimensions and much, much more.

The book measures 185mm x 125mm x 17mm thick and has 305 pages. Whether you are an architect, developer, student, interior designer, builder, or DIY enthusiast, this book will be relevant and of great practical use to you. My copy is a trusted and well thumbed friend.

Students need this!, 20 Apr 2004
Not just useful for architecture, i am an interior design student at uni.Its not all about decorating you know and I wouldnt have survived my1styear without the help of this book. Especially because I havent come froman architectural background I did find it hard but this book helped loadz!

Not amazing but better than the rest!, 01 Feb 2007
Here is an area where the old school of design still lingers, the book is very suitable for specific tasks but really needs improving on. Having said that I threw away my copy of Charlotte Baden-Powell's book as soon as I got this - because even this tome is much more useable than hers.

Must-have reference book, 23 Oct 2006
This is a valuable pool of infomation on ergonomics, minimum dimensions, information on parking, vehicle dimensions, building dimensions, design of buildings for different purposes and much, much more. I probably have only used about a tenth of the information within the book (I don't have much use for info on airport design, for example) but we use it regularly in our office as a reference book and should we ever need to know the dimensions of a cow, we know just where to look....

solid!, 08 Oct 2004
With data on all kinds of programmatic requirements and some valuable information on structures and materials this is a book architecture students should BORROW from the library or the office. This book can tell you the minimum ceiling height of a badminton court or the density of steel - but it won't design your project!

Planning & Design Data Marvel!, 05 Nov 2003
An exceedingly thorough compilation of all those annoying facts and figures you can never remember or find any where else! This book is always open at the end of my desk, and I now have to fight for it with my colleagues to get to the information. No project or facilities manager, specification writer or other member of the construction industry should be without it!

A bit of a let down, 07 Apr 2000
This is one of the most important books for architects and other associated professions. This copy has been extensively updated, which is to be highly commended, however, the information on acoustics and heat loss seem quite shoddy. Equations are misprinted and the cross-referencing within the sections is confusing at times baring little or no correlation to the worked examples. I only hope the other sections are not subject to the same inaccuracies.

Looks great, not such great text, 19 Dec 2006
A very attractive coffe table book, full of high quality images. However, in terms of garden design and maintenance it is a little bit specialist for my taste. Overall, this is one for the garden historian rather than the gardener. Btw - a previous review questions why gardens belonging to the National Trust for Scotland (NTS) aren't included in the book. I suspect it's because NTS is an entirely seperate organisation from the National Trust for England, Wales and Northern Ireland, rather than the author not rating gardens north of the border.



Great text and stunning photos, 12 Dec 2005
I found information on plant varieties, garden design and historical facts fascinating. The entry on Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal was particularly poignant for me, as it is probably my favourite National Trust garden (of the ones I've visited), and Stephen Lacey's text added to my enjoyment and memories of a sunny summer's day visit. Despite being mid-winter, it made me want to jump in the car and drive up to North Yorks to revel in the splendour of this garden.

This is a book to dip-in and out of before and after visiting National Trust properties. I'm keen for spring and summer to come round again to see these gardens at their best. To be honest, I may even brave the cold winter weather and go and see the winter face of some of my more local NT gardens.

The photography is undoubtedly stunning, and does these gardens full justice. More photography and books of this type please, National Trust.

It relies too heavily on the artwork., 02 Nov 2005
It seems that the author relies heavily on the startling photograhy in this book, perhaps he should concentrate his efforts elsewhere, as the text is neither here nor there.
I could not tune into this lacklustre offering at all.

An Authentic 5-star Original, 14 Jan 2008
Looking for a new book on London - for a friend rather than myself - I happened on this one and was persuaded by the fact that it's got so many five-star ratings. It arrived, and I could see why straightaway. At first it was the pictures which did it for me, classy monochrome shots, all clearly shot for this book. Then I started reading it, however, and was drawn in by the depth of knowledge, the huge scope - it takes in the suburbs as well as the centre - and most of all the author's writing style. Most obviously you really feel like you're there with him, on a privileged walk around the city, plus the buildings really are extraordinary - many I'd never even heard of let alone noticed - and so many of the stories about them are not just fascinating but wittily told in a way which really brings London alive.. The friend? Well she never got the book in the end because I kept it.

Coffee table tome meets un-put-downable read, 29 Sep 2006
If you thought you knew London, think again. David Long's book combines in-depth research, with a talent for quirky anecdote. Such human-interest brings the tasteful black and white photos to life and distinguishes Spectacular Vernacular from other, sometimes fusty, architectural manuals. It's easy to dip into as it deals with one building at a time - text facing photograph - so there's no need to flip back and forth between pages. Once your curiosity is piqued, however, it is hard to put down. Will appeal to Londoners, and visitors alike.

So THAT'S what that building is!, 06 Aug 2006
One of THE most imaginative books on the capital, which really does reach the parts other books don't. Ignores the obvious, and goes straight for the stuff you never even knew you wanted to know about. Lovely pics as well

Cabbies - so you think you have the knowledge ???, 30 Jul 2006
As a London Cabbie I pride myself on the knowledge I have not only of routes through and around London, but also the many interesting and different places hidden away or just not thought about as we pass along the busy thoroughfares of London. I think that the cabbies will like this one.

This is a book about London and its peculiar architecture, which we pass everyday in the cab without so much as a second glance. One hundred buildings are identified as being the strangest and enigmatic. The introduction describes London as lacking an urban masterplan and is shown in contrast to Nazi Berlin, Paris or even Babylon. London's chief glory lies not in the theatrical effect of triumphant avenues aligned along carefully drafted axes, or meticulously planned grid of street and square, but rather in its many historic and often highly individual buildings.So the introduction goes.

The book is full of excellent black and white photographs, that show the buildings in a light, which could not be done justice in colour strange as though they might seem. With each photograph most of which are full page, the author gives a brief pen portrait of each location, which includes a history.

The book has ten chapters and each section deals with a specific aspect of architecture. For example, in the first chapter entitled "Tudor Manor Born" the author introduces Abbot's House, Deans Yard, Westminster moving on to Albany and Piccadilly. Crosby Hall features and once we have read through the text we discover that Crosby Hall was moved brick by brick from the City to its current site in Chelsea in 1908. You will pass it on Cheyne Walk just after Danvers Street. There always seems to be something going on there and it looks as though the builders will be there for a while longer.

Not only does the book describe and illustrate interesting buildings within central London, the author also brings to our attention many other buildings which we might only know about if we lived in a particular locality. For example Severndroog Castle? Who? you might say. This is located in Castlewood Park, SE18. Many of us cabbies who did the knowledge will probably have seen the tower at Clock Tower Place N7. The story associated with this tower is that after several hundred years of cattle slaughter in the city it was decided to transfer the trading of livestock to Islington. The story goes that this market attracted the ne'er do wells and there was a large illegitimate trade attached to the market with thieves running alive. After the war it was knocked down for development and the more legitimate traders moved to Bermondsey. Hence the New Caledonian Market, which still exists today in Bermondsey Street by Long Lane.

There are many other illustrations and descriptions and the book would be an interesting addition to the bookshelves of those cab drivers who are interested in the aspects of London presented here. Most enjoyable and worth the purchase.



The Underbelly, 17 Jul 2006
An honest and real guide to the buildings that makes London what it is and isn't. It's also a partial explanation for why the English are who they are. Long's book in main avoids the standard tourist and more recognisable buildings but instead studies the buildings that really are unique and different. In short the 'extraordinary' buildings.

The interesting thing is that so many of the buildings in this book are those that you might have walked past once or twice or more and not realised just how unique or important they are.

If you want a tour of what London is really about architecturally and do it from your couch then this is a wonderful place to start. Or get off the couch and take it with you.

A fascinating insight.

Superb! It has everything!, 10 Jul 2008
Having asked for this book as a present I am so glad I did. This has to be THE BEST dictionary on architecture. I also have a non visual dictionary by Oxford but this book far outweighs that one. Being an architecture student, there are still a lot of architectural terms I am not familiar with which is where this book comes in real handy. Every time I come across a new term I always think "no, it's not going to be in here" but it actually IS! Not only is there a brief description but to help you understand better there is often a hand sketch too (of which there are many and of EXCELLENT quality). The best thing about this book is, however, I have architects looking up things in here too! This book is invaluable and a definite must for anyone studying architecture or even newly qualified architects!

Excellent excellent excellent.

Just fabulous!, 18 Jan 2006
I bought this for my sister who is studying architecture, and she's over the moon with it. I wanted to give her a bit of inspiration, and a reference book and this has done it. Great job by the author, and in exquisite detail too.

Fantastic reference manual, 03 Feb 2003
I bought this book solely as a reference tool for my degree course but i now find myself uncontrollably reading through random extracts in order to 'absorb' more information. Concise but detailed definitions and stunningly drawn components and diagrams make this an invaluable book for students and professionals alike. Although published in the USA, very little of the descriptive text will be foreign to us here in the UK. The book is not intended to provide detailed construction techniques or information or be used as a guide to defects analysis and building pathology, but as a basic reference manual in order that we may better understand and visualise the components and terms within the built environment it is fantastic. If you dont know your bastard pointing from your tuck and pat get this !!

I want to read this book, but in spanish version, 07 Mar 1999
I saw this book in spanish version in the Casa Viva magazine, please what do I do to have this book in spanish version?

I want to read this book, but in spanish version, 07 Mar 1999
I saw this book in spanish version in the Casa Viva magazine, please what do I do to have this book in spanish version?

A perfect Christmas present, 14 Nov 2008
Just when the world seems to be collapsing in economic ruin, Mount gives us a book-full of reasons to take pleasure in what we see around us. I'll be buying several copies to give to people this Christmas - and I expect to see this charming, clever, hugely entertaining tome popping up in people's homes for years to come. Mount has staked a powerful claim to be the James Lees-Milne of our time.

A Lust for Intelligence, 04 Nov 2008
Mount is to be congratulated on producing a study which is lucid and funny, and equally useful to the amateur fan as well as the architectural expert. His great gift is to make what is (too often) solemn great fun. He did it with Latin; now he has done it with buildings.

Invaluable..., 23 Oct 2008
Received the book yesterday and my husband (who's an architect), hasn't been able to put it down. He thinks it's brilliant, informative and concise, he's using it now for work he's doing. Would recommend it to any student or Architect who needs reference in an easy to read format.

A book to literally be kept in the pocket, 29 May 2008
Being an architecture student I keep this book with me whenever I am working on projects, be it at work or at university. It is unbelievable how much information Baden-Powell has managed to cram into this tiny book. Among others, some of the topics covered in the book are common furniture sizes, staircases, brick types, soil, wheelchair user space requirements and even drainage, heating and lightbulbs! This book really is a MUST if you are in the architectural field and even if you aren't this book is useful for anyone doing any kind of construction, design or engineering. I would not have survived my degree without this book since it has lots of very useful, "must-know" information which may take ages to find!

An excellent book, you won't be disappointed.

Very handy, 05 Apr 2008
I've referred to this almost every day. It's been even more useful than the Metric Handbook.

An Essential for Pocket or Toolbox, 22 Aug 2004
.
If you are in any way involved in construction on a domestic scale, the Architect's Pocket Book is a must.

It evolved from a set of notes used by the author, collating the diverse practical information regularly required in her work as an architect. So many friends requested copies that she ditched the photocopier in favour of a publishing deal, and thank heaven she did! Nowhere else can you find concise notes that cover the whole spectrum of information needed for smaller projects.

The book is divided into six sections, namely General Information, Planning, Structures, Services, Building Elements and Materials. There is also an appendix containing addresses, a list of sources and an index followed by a few pages for your own scribbles. Within the sections you find a wealth of information, tables and diagrams that cover such useful topics as drawing conventions, anthropometric data, weight of materials, safe loads on subsoils, concrete mixes, lintel sizes, beam formulae, heat loss, timber stress grade tables, types of nails, identifying wood boring beetles, plasterboard dimensions and much, much more.

The book measures 185mm x 125mm x 17mm thick and has 305 pages. Whether you are an architect, developer, student, interior designer, builder, or DIY enthusiast, this book will be relevant and of great practical use to you. My copy is a trusted and well thumbed friend.

Students need this!, 20 Apr 2004
Not just useful for architecture, i am an interior design student at uni.Its not all about decorating you know and I wouldnt have survived my1styear without the help of this book. Especially because I havent come froman architectural background I did find it hard but this book helped loadz!

Not amazing but better than the rest!, 01 Feb 2007
Here is an area where the old school of design still lingers, the book is very suitable for specific tasks but really needs improving on. Having said that I threw away my copy of Charlotte Baden-Powell's book as soon as I got this - because even this tome is much more useable than hers.

Must-have reference book, 23 Oct 2006
This is a valuable pool of infomation on ergonomics, minimum dimensions, information on parking, vehicle dimensions, building dimensions, design of buildings for different purposes and much, much more. I probably have only used about a tenth of the information within the book (I don't have much use for info on airport design, for example) but we use it regularly in our office as a reference book and should we ever need to know the dimensions of a cow, we know just where to look....

solid!, 08 Oct 2004
With data on all kinds of programmatic requirements and some valuable information on structures and materials this is a book architecture students should BORROW from the library or the office. This book can tell you the minimum ceiling height of a badminton court or the density of steel - but it won't design your project!

Planning & Design Data Marvel!, 05 Nov 2003
An exceedingly thorough compilation of all those annoying facts and figures you can never remember or find any where else! This book is always open at the end of my desk, and I now have to fight for it with my colleagues to get to the information. No project or facilities manager, specification writer or other member of the construction industry should be without it!

A bit of a let down, 07 Apr 2000
This is one of the most important books for architects and other associated professions. This copy has been extensively updated, which is to be highly commended, however, the information on acoustics and heat loss seem quite shoddy. Equations are misprinted and the cross-referencing within the sections is confusing at times baring little or no correlation to the worked examples. I only hope the other sections are not subject to the same inaccuracies.

Looks great, not such great text, 19 Dec 2006
A very attractive coffe table book, full of high quality images. However, in terms of garden design and maintenance it is a little bit specialist for my taste. Overall, this is one for the garden historian rather than the gardener. Btw - a previous review questions why gardens belonging to the National Trust for Scotland (NTS) aren't included in the book. I suspect it's because NTS is an entirely seperate organisation from the National Trust for England, Wales and Northern Ireland, rather than the author not rating gardens north of the border.



Great text and stunning photos, 12 Dec 2005
I found information on plant varieties, garden design and historical facts fascinating. The entry on Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal was particularly poignant for me, as it is probably my favourite National Trust garden (of the ones I've visited), and Stephen Lacey's text added to my enjoyment and memories of a sunny summer's day visit. Despite being mid-winter, it made me want to jump in the car and drive up to North Yorks to revel in the splendour of this garden.

This is a book to dip-in and out of before and after visiting National Trust properties. I'm keen for spring and summer to come round again to see these gardens at their best. To be honest, I may even brave the cold winter weather and go and see the winter face of some of my more local NT gardens.

The photography is undoubtedly stunning, and does these gardens full justice. More photography and books of this type please, National Trust.

It relies too heavily on the artwork., 02 Nov 2005
It seems that the author relies heavily on the startling photograhy in this book, perhaps he should concentrate his efforts elsewhere, as the text is neither here nor there.
I could not tune into this lacklustre offering at all.

An Authentic 5-star Original, 14 Jan 2008
Looking for a new book on London - for a friend rather than myself - I happened on this one and was persuaded by the fact that it's got so many five-star ratings. It arrived, and I could see why straightaway. At first it was the pictures which did it for me, classy monochrome shots, all clearly shot for this book. Then I started reading it, however, and was drawn in by the depth of knowledge, the huge scope - it takes in the suburbs as well as the centre - and most of all the author's writing style. Most obviously you really feel like you're there with him, on a privileged walk around the city, plus the buildings really are extraordinary - many I'd never even heard of let alone noticed - and so many of the stories about them are not just fascinating but wittily told in a way which really brings London alive.. The friend? Well she never got the book in the end because I kept it.

Coffee table tome meets un-put-downable read, 29 Sep 2006
If you thought you knew London, think again. David Long's book combines in-depth research, with a talent for quirky anecdote. Such human-interest brings the tasteful black and white photos to life and distinguishes Spectacular Vernacular from other, sometimes fusty, architectural manuals. It's easy to dip into as it deals with one building at a time - text facing photograph - so there's no need to flip back and forth between pages. Once your curiosity is piqued, however, it is hard to put down. Will appeal to Londoners, and visitors alike.

So THAT'S what that building is!, 06 Aug 2006
One of THE most imaginative books on the capital, which really does reach the parts other books don't. Ignores the obvious, and goes straight for the stuff you never even knew you wanted to know about. Lovely pics as well

Cabbies - so you think you have the knowledge ???, 30 Jul 2006
As a London Cabbie I pride myself on the knowledge I have not only of routes through and around London, but also the many interesting and different places hidden away or just not thought about as we pass along the busy thoroughfares of London. I think that the cabbies will like this one.

This is a book about London and its peculiar architecture, which we pass everyday in the cab without so much as a second glance. One hundred buildings are identified as being the strangest and enigmatic. The introduction describes London as lacking an urban masterplan and is shown in contrast to Nazi Berlin, Paris or even Babylon. London's chief glory lies not in the theatrical effect of triumphant avenues aligned along carefully drafted axes, or meticulously planned grid of street and square, but rather in its many historic and often highly individual buildings.So the introduction goes.

The book is full of excellent black and white photographs, that show the buildings in a light, which could not be done justice in colour strange as though they might seem. With each photograph most of which are full page, the author gives a brief pen portrait of each location, which includes a history.

The book has ten chapters and each section deals with a specific aspect of architecture. For example, in the first chapter entitled "Tudor Manor Born" the author introduces Abbot's House, Deans Yard, Westminster moving on to Albany and Piccadilly. Crosby Hall features and once we have read through the text we discover that Crosby Hall was moved brick by brick from the City to its current site in Chelsea in 1908. You will pass it on Cheyne Walk just after Danvers Street. There always seems to be something going on there and it looks as though the builders will be there for a while longer.

Not only does the book describe and illustrate interesting buildings within central London, the author also brings to our attention many other buildings which we might only know about if we lived in a particular locality. For example Severndroog Castle? Who? you might say. This is located in Castlewood Park, SE18. Many of us cabbies who did the knowledge will probably have seen the tower at Clock Tower Place N7. The story associated with this tower is that after several hundred years of cattle slaughter in the city it was decided to transfer the trading of livestock to Islington. The story goes that this market attracted the ne'er do wells and there was a large illegitimate trade attached to the market with thieves running alive. After the war it was knocked down for development and the more legitimate traders moved to Bermondsey. Hence the New Caledonian Market, which still exists today in Bermondsey Street by Long Lane.

There are many other illustrations and descriptions and the book would be an interesting addition to the bookshelves of those cab drivers who are interested in the aspects of London presented here. Most enjoyable and worth the purchase.



The Underbelly, 17 Jul 2006
An honest and real guide to the buildings that makes London what it is and isn't. It's also a partial explanation for why the English are who they are. Long's book in main avoids the standard tourist and more recognisable buildings but instead studies the buildings that really are unique and different. In short the 'extraordinary' buildings.

The interesting thing is that so many of the buildings in this book are those that you might have walked past once or twice or more and not realised just how unique or important they are.

If you want a tour of what London is really about architecturally and do it from your couch then this is a wonderful place to start. Or get off the couch and take it with you.

A fascinating insight.

Superb! It has everything!, 10 Jul 2008
Having asked for this book as a present I am so glad I did. This has to be THE BEST dictionary on architecture. I also have a non visual dictionary by Oxford but this book far outweighs that one. Being an architecture student, there are still a lot of architectural terms I am not familiar with which is where this book comes in real handy. Every time I come across a new term I always think "no, it's not going to be in here" but it actually IS! Not only is there a brief description but to help you understand better there is often a hand sketch too (of which there are many and of EXCELLENT quality). The best thing about this book is, however, I have architects looking up things in here too! This book is invaluable and a definite must for anyone studying architecture or even newly qualified architects!

Excellent excellent excellent.

Just fabulous!, 18 Jan 2006
I bought this for my sister who is studying architecture, and she's over the moon with it. I wanted to give her a bit of inspiration, and a reference book and this has done it. Great job by the author, and in exquisite detail too.

Fantastic reference manual, 03 Feb 2003
I bought this book solely as a reference tool for my degree course but i now find myself uncontrollably reading through random extracts in order to 'absorb' more information. Concise but detailed definitions and stunningly drawn components and diagrams make this an invaluable book for students and professionals alike. Although published in the USA, very little of the descriptive text will be foreign to us here in the UK. The book is not intended to provide detailed construction techniques or information or be used as a guide to defects analysis and building pathology, but as a basic reference manual in order that we may better understand and visualise the components and terms within the built environment it is fantastic. If you dont know your bastard pointing from your tuck and pat get this !!

I want to read this book, but in spanish version, 07 Mar 1999
I saw this book in spanish version in the Casa Viva magazine, please what do I do to have this book in spanish version?

I want to read this book, but in spanish version, 07 Mar 1999
I saw this book in spanish version in the Casa Viva magazine, please what do I do to have this book in spanish version?

The author reflects on architecture, 13 Jan 2008
Considering the significance of architecture, the author remarks that beautiful houses falter as guarantors of happiness and can also be accused of failing to improve the characters of those who live in them and proceeds by explaining why this is so. Karl Friedrich Schinkel for example stated that to turn something useful, practical, and functional into something beautiful is the architect's duty. Architecture should thus be the decoration of construction as distinguished from mere building. The architects of the Modernist movement, like all their predecessors, wanted their houses to speak and express emotions. Indeed buildings speak. They speak of democracy or aristocracy, openness or arrogance, welcome or threat, sympathy for the future or a hankering for the past.
Interestingly enough what we search for in a work of architecture is not so far from what we search for in a friend because the objects we describe as beautiful art versions of the people we love. The buildings we admire are those which extol values we think are worthwhile: through their materials, shapes and colours they express qualities such as friendliness, kindness, subtlety, strength and intelligence. As Stendhal wrote, "Beauty is the promise of happiness."
We are vulnerable to what the spaces we inhabit are saying. In a drab hotel room our optimism and sense of purpose are liable to drain away. We look to our buildings to hold us, like a kind of psychological mould, to a helpful vision of ourselves. We need a home in the psychological sense as much as we need a home in the physical sense: to compensate for vulnerability, we need a refuge.
We may feel joy at the architectural perfection we see before us and at the same time melancholy at an awareness of how seldom we are sufficiently blessed to encounter anything of its kind. And sadness is conducive to receptivity: our downhearted moments provide architecture and art with their best openings because it is at such times that our hunger for their ideal qualities is at its height.
Such thoughts and many other are contained in this study of architecture and make for a valuable and interesting read.


The Consolations of Architecture!, 16 Jun 2007
The title obviously alludes to a previous book by the charismatic author entitled 'The Consolations of Philosophy'.

But I aspire that this review is a little more than word play, resonance and allusion.

One is impressed with the literacy, sophistication, refinement and discriminating taste of the author. He moves with ease in time, Geography and discipline to collate the arguments in support of his points and pronounces virtually in every paragraph profound truths and thoughts with disarming simplicity.

The book is lavishly graced with elegant black and white photographs exquisitely illustrating the points made by the author in the text; in fact these photographs along with their accompanying footnotes comprise an excellent summary of the book.

But the book itself is difficult to summarize because there are simply so many original, beautiful, elegant, subtle and refined thoughts and ideas about buildings and Architecture. One can only aspire to give a flavour of the content of the book by providing fragments of information.

The author introduces the book in a philosophical mood.

In a walk on a brilliant summer day in a pastoral landscape the psychoanalyst Sigmund Freud and the poet Rainer Maria Rilke reflect on the trancience of beauty. In another point the author suggests that we are more appreciative of beauty when in sad mood while he reminds us of the cruel truth of the powerless of beautiful buildings to change the evil side of human nature.

The author discusses the evolution of the concept of beauty in Architecture. There was certainty in what comprises beauty in Architecture which with intermission lasted for a thousand years. It developed in classical Greece exemplified by the columnated temples with their friezes and pediments and harmonic proportions, evolved in Rome and revived in Rainessance.

Then tastes changed and the gothic and mixtures of styles were introduced in houses.

In the modern era beauty was ostensibly abandoned altogether and the new credo was function. Buildings and constructions should be functional not beautiful. But this was more of an illusion rather than fact. Modern Architecture was beautiful and gave a promise for the future.

We often describe a building as beautiful when it evokes aspects of happiness. As Stendahl aptly wrote 'Beauty is the promise of happiness'. But he wisely refrained from specifying any particular type of beauty but instead commented that there are as many styles of beauty as there are visions of happiness.

Buildings we call beautiful often contain in a concentrated form those qualities in which we are deficient. In this regard we feel sacred architecture exemplified in Gothic cathedrals is beautiful because it is uplifting our souls.

We like order in buildings but only when it is combined with complexity.

We like an adequately contextual building which we might define as one which embodies some of the most desirable values and the highest ambitions of its era and place-a building which serves as a repository for a workable ideal.

Finally our views on beauty and aesthetics are often moulded by culture. An extreme example is exemplified by the perceptions of beauty respectively in Western Europe and Japan in Architecture, artefacts and man made landscape.



Incredibly thought provoking, 30 Nov 2006
I have only put this book down to write this review. Love it and love Alain de Botten. Everything he talks about provokes more philosophical questions which he is sure to discuss as you read on.

All architecture students should read, 15 Jun 2006
This book can be considered a well balanced guide to the major philosophical and theoretical debates which affect every architect-in-training in forming their own opinions and which have been debated over the past centuries. Everything from "what is archtitecture" downwards.

Contains just enough of each point of view to enable ideas to be formed, or to guide further research, without telling you what to think. Its a composition rather than a manifesto. Every ten pages or so there is a gem of a quote. And just as you start thinking, "but what does that mean for..." you turn the page and there it is, with quotes and references and everything you need to start making up your own mind.

If as an undergrad you're only likely to read one book on theory this year, and want to avoid becoming a specialist on [insert obscure german author your tutor wants an essay on], read this for the whole picture. Its really accessibly written too. And has pictures (good heavens!). And big margins.

Quite Happy, 23 May 2006
Was a little disappointed that all of the photographs were in black and white. Considering the RRP cover price you would expect them to be in colour.

A perfect Christmas present, 14 Nov 2008
Just when the world seems to be collapsing in economic ruin, Mount gives us a book-full of reasons to take pleasure in what we see around us. I'll be buying several copies to give to people this Christmas - and I expect to see this charming, clever, hugely entertaining tome popping up in people's homes for years to come. Mount has staked a powerful claim to be the James Lees-Milne of our time.

A Lust for Intelligence, 04 Nov 2008
Mount is to be congratulated on producing a study which is lucid and funny, and equally useful to the amateur fan as well as the architectural expert. His great gift is to make what is (too often) solemn great fun. He did it with Latin; now he has done it with buildings.

Invaluable..., 23 Oct 2008
Received the book yesterday and my husband (who's an architect), hasn't been able to put it down. He thinks it's brilliant, informative and concise, he's using it now for work he's doing. Would recommend it to any student or Architect who needs reference in an easy to read format.

A book to literally be kept in the pocket, 29 May 2008
Being an architecture student I keep this book with me whenever I am working on projects, be it at work or at university. It is unbelievable how much information Baden-Powell has managed to cram into this tiny book. Among others, some of the topics covered in the book are common furniture sizes, staircases, brick types, soil, wheelchair user space requirements and even drainage, heating and lightbulbs! This book really is a MUST if you are in the architectural field and even if you aren't this book is useful for anyone doing any kind of construction, design or engineering. I would not have survived my degree without this book since it has lots of very useful, "must-know" information which may take ages to find!

An excellent book, you won't be disappointed.

Very handy, 05 Apr 2008
I've referred to this almost every day. It's been even more useful than the Metric Handbook.

An Essential for Pocket or Toolbox, 22 Aug 2004
.
If you are in any way involved in construction on a domestic scale, the Architect's Pocket Book is a must.

It evolved from a set of notes used by the author, collating the diverse practical information regularly required in her work as an architect. So many friends requested copies that she ditched the photocopier in favour of a publishing deal, and thank heaven she did! Nowhere else can you find concise notes that cover the whole spectrum of information needed for smaller projects.

The book is divided into six sections, namely General Information, Planning, Structures, Services, Building Elements and Materials. There is also an appendix containing addresses, a list of sources and an index followed by a few pages for your own scribbles. Within the sections you find a wealth of information, tables and diagrams that cover such useful topics as drawing conventions, anthropometric data, weight of materials, safe loads on subsoils, concrete mixes, lintel sizes, beam formulae, heat loss, timber stress grade tables, types of nails, identifying wood boring beetles, plasterboard dimensions and much, much more.

The book measures 185mm x 125mm x 17mm thick and has 305 pages. Whether you are an architect, developer, student, interior designer, builder, or DIY enthusiast, this book will be relevant and of great practical use to you. My copy is a trusted and well thumbed friend.

Students need this!, 20 Apr 2004
Not just useful for architecture, i am an interior design student at uni.Its not all about decorating you know and I wouldnt have survived my1styear without the help of this book. Especially because I havent come froman architectural background I did find it hard but this book helped loadz!

Not amazing but better than the rest!, 01 Feb 2007
Here is an area where the old school of design still lingers, the book is very suitable for specific tasks but really needs improving on. Having said that I threw away my copy of Charlotte Baden-Powell's book as soon as I got this - because even this tome is much more useable than hers.

Must-have reference book, 23 Oct 2006
This is a valuable pool of infomation on ergonomics, minimum dimensions, information on parking, vehicle dimensions, building dimensions, design of buildings for different purposes and much, much more. I probably have only used about a tenth of the information within the book (I don't have much use for info on airport design, for example) but we use it regularly in our office as a reference book and should we ever need to know the dimensions of a cow, we know just where to look....

solid!, 08 Oct 2004
With data on all kinds of programmatic requirements and some valuable information on structures and materials this is a book architecture students should BORROW from the library or the office. This book can tell you the minimum ceiling height of a badminton court or the density of steel - but it won't design your project!

Planning & Design Data Marvel!, 05 Nov 2003
An exceedingly thorough compilation of all those annoying facts and figures you can never remember or find any where else! This book is always open at the end of my desk, and I now have to fight for it with my colleagues to get to the information. No project or facilities manager, specification writer or other member of the construction industry should be without it!

A bit of a let down, 07 Apr 2000
This is one of the most important books for architects and other associated professions. This copy has been extensively updated, which is to be highly commended, however, the information on acoustics and heat loss seem quite shoddy. Equations are misprinted and the cross-referencing within the sections is confusing at times baring little or no correlation to the worked examples. I only hope the other sections are not subject to the same inaccuracies.

Looks great, not such great text, 19 Dec 2006
A very attractive coffe table book, full of high quality images. However, in terms of garden design and maintenance it is a little bit specialist for my taste. Overall, this is one for the garden historian rather than the gardener. Btw - a previous review questions why gardens belonging to the National Trust for Scotland (NTS) aren't included in the book. I suspect it's because NTS is an entirely seperate organisation from the National Trust for England, Wales and Northern Ireland, rather than the author not rating gardens north of the border.



Great text and stunning photos, 12 Dec 2005
I found information on plant varieties, garden design and historical facts fascinating. The entry on Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal was particularly poignant for me, as it is probably my favourite National Trust garden (of the ones I've visited), and Stephen Lacey's text added to my enjoyment and memories of a sunny summer's day visit. Despite being mid-winter, it made me want to jump in the car and drive up to North Yorks to revel in the splendour of this garden.

This is a book to dip-in and out of before and after visiting National Trust properties. I'm keen for spring and summer to come round again to see these gardens at their best. To be honest, I may even brave the cold winter weather and go and see the winter face of some of my more local NT gardens.

The photography is undoubtedly stunning, and does these gardens full justice. More photography and books of this type please, National Trust.

It relies too heavily on the artwork., 02 Nov 2005
It seems that the author relies heavily on the startling photograhy in this book, perhaps he should concentrate his efforts elsewhere, as the text is neither here nor there.
I could not tune into this lacklustre offering at all.

An Authentic 5-star Original, 14 Jan 2008
Looking for a new book on London - for a friend rather than myself - I happened on this one and was persuaded by the fact that it's got so many five-star ratings. It arrived, and I could see why straightaway. At first it was the pictures which did it for me, classy monochrome shots, all clearly shot for this book. Then I started reading it, however, and was drawn in by the depth of knowledge, the huge scope - it takes in the suburbs as well as the centre - and most of all the author's writing style. Most obviously you really feel like you're there with him, on a privileged walk around the city, plus the buildings really are extraordinary - many I'd never even heard of let alone noticed - and so many of the stories about them are not just fascinating but wittily told in a way which really brings London alive.. The friend? Well she never got the book in the end because I kept it.

Coffee table tome meets un-put-downable read, 29 Sep 2006
If you thought you knew London, think again. David Long's book combines in-depth research, with a talent for quirky anecdote. Such human-interest brings the tasteful black and white photos to life and distinguishes Spectacular Vernacular from other, sometimes fusty, architectural manuals. It's easy to dip into as it deals with one building at a time - text facing photograph - so there's no need to flip back and forth between pages. Once your curiosity is piqued, however, it is hard to put down. Will appeal to Londoners, and visitors alike.

So THAT'S what that building is!, 06 Aug 2006
One of THE most imaginative books on the capital, which really does reach the parts other books don't. Ignores the obvious, and goes straight for the stuff you never even knew you wanted to know about. Lovely pics as well

Cabbies - so you think you have the knowledge ???, 30 Jul 2006
As a London Cabbie I pride myself on the knowledge I have not only of routes through and around London, but also the many interesting and different places hidden away or just not thought about as we pass along the busy thoroughfares of London. I think that the cabbies will like this one.

This is a book about London and its peculiar architecture, which we pass everyday in the cab without so much as a second glance. One hundred buildings are identified as being the strangest and enigmatic. The introduction describes London as lacking an urban masterplan and is shown in contrast to Nazi Berlin, Paris or even Babylon. London's chief glory lies not in the theatrical effect of triumphant avenues aligned along carefully drafted axes, or meticulously planned grid of street and square, but rather in its many historic and often highly individual buildings.So the introduction goes.

The book is full of excellent black and white photographs, that show the buildings in a light, which could not be done justice in colour strange as though they might seem. With each photograph most of which are full page, the author gives a brief pen portrait of each location, which includes a history.

The book has ten chapters and each section deals with a specific aspect of architecture. For example, in the first chapter entitled "Tudor Manor Born" the author introduces Abbot's House, Deans Yard, Westminster moving on to Albany and Piccadilly. Crosby Hall features and once we have read through the text we discover that Crosby Hall was moved brick by brick from the City to its current site in Chelsea in 1908. You will pass it on Cheyne Walk just after Danvers Street. There always seems to be something going on there and it looks as though the builders will be there for a while longer.

Not only does the book describe and illustrate interesting buildings within central London, the author also brings to our attention many other buildings which we might only know about if we lived in a particular locality. For example Severndroog Castle? Who? you might say. This is located in Castlewood Park, SE18. Many of us cabbies who did the knowledge will probably have seen the tower at Clock Tower Place N7. The story associated with this tower is that after several hundred years of cattle slaughter in the city it was decided to transfer the trading of livestock to Islington. The story goes that this market attracted the ne'er do wells and there was a large illegitimate trade attached to the market with thieves running alive. After the war it was knocked down for development and the more legitimate traders moved to Bermondsey. Hence the New Caledonian Market, which still exists today in Bermondsey Street by Long Lane.

There are many other illustrations and descriptions and the book would be an interesting addition to the bookshelves of those cab drivers who are interested in the aspects of London presented here. Most enjoyable and worth the purchase.



The Underbelly, 17 Jul 2006
An honest and real guide to the buildings that makes London what it is and isn't. It's also a partial explanation for why the English are who they are. Long's book in main avoids the standard tourist and more recognisable buildings but instead studies the buildings that really are unique and different. In short the 'extraordinary' buildings.

The interesting thing is that so many of the buildings in this book are those that you might have walked past once or twice or more and not realised just how unique or important they are.

If you want a tour of what London is really about architecturally and do it from your couch then this is a wonderful place to start. Or get off the couch and take it with you.

A fascinating insight.

Superb! It has everything!, 10 Jul 2008
Having asked for this book as a present I am so glad I did. This has to be THE BEST dictionary on architecture. I also have a non visual dictionary by Oxford but this book far outweighs that one. Being an architecture student, there are still a lot of architectural terms I am not familiar with which is where this book comes in real handy. Every time I come across a new term I always think "no, it's not going to be in here" but it actually IS! Not only is there a brief description but to help you understand better there is often a hand sketch too (of which there are many and of EXCELLENT quality). The best thing about this book is, however, I have architects looking up things in here too! This book is invaluable and a definite must for anyone studying architecture or even newly qualified architects!

Excellent excellent excellent.

Just fabulous!, 18 Jan 2006
I bought this for my sister who is studying architecture, and she's over the moon with it. I wanted to give her a bit of inspiration, and a reference book and this has done it. Great job by the author, and in exquisite detail too.

Fantastic reference manual, 03 Feb 2003
I bought this book solely as a reference tool for my degree course but i now find myself uncontrollably reading through random extracts in order to 'absorb' more information. Concise but detailed definitions and stunningly drawn components and diagrams make this an invaluable book for students and professionals alike. Although published in the USA, very little of the descriptive text will be foreign to us here in the UK. The book is not intended to provide detailed construction techniques or information or be used as a guide to defects analysis and building pathology, but as a basic r