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Best Architecture Books that every Architect must have

Now and again I get inquiries from individuals like you asking for advice and recommended reading. If you have to expand your knowledge about architecture. Have you recently graduated and starting at the bottom of work life? Need some inspiration to pursue architecture then these books will inspire you and change your perspective as a designer, Here is a list for best architecture books, broken down into categories.

Theory + Design

S,M,L,XL by Rem Koolhaas and Bruce Mau

This was a monumental, ground shifting book when it came out in 1995. Before then, architecture books were mainly stiff “portfolios” or theoretical treatises. The landscape is different now, see KM3 by MVRDV and more recently, Yes is More by Bjarke Ingels for example. This reads as a maniacal heart racing ride-along with renegade architects on the run. Diary entries, unashamed messy models and sketches, a dictionary running throughout the book in the margin, and construction photos all work together in a novel way to give the reader a front row seat in a fast moving and high profile architecture firm. Just get it and enjoy the ride. S,M,L,XL is one architecture book that could go in any category; because of the unique insight during the design process I put it here.

Architecture: Form, Space, and Order

For more than forty years, the beautifully illustrated Architecture: Form, Space, and Order has served as the classic introduction to the basic vocabulary of architectural design.The updated and revised Fourth Edition features the fundamental elements of space and form and is designed to encourage critical thought in order to promote a more evocative understanding of architecture.This book undoubtedly would make its place in every best architecture books list.

Introduction to Architecture

Introduction to Architecture presents the essential texts and drawings of Francis D. K. Ching for those new to architecture and design. With his typical highly graphic approach, this is the first introductory text from Ching that surveys the design of spaces, buildings, and cities. In an easy to understand format, readers will explore the histories and theories of architecture, design elements and process, and the technical aspects of the contemporary profession of architecture.

Architecture Workbook: Design Through Motive by Sir Peter Cook

Peter Cook was a main member of the neofuturist architecture group, “Archigram” in the 1960’s. He is basically an architecture superstar before “starchitects” existed. The Archigram projects were so out of this world you could call them instigations more than projects. Fortunately for us, he didn’t “grow out of this phase” and his built work is as exciting as his early sketches, see Kunsthaus Graz in Vienna for example. This book is divided into different motives, such as “Architecture as Theater” and “Can We Learn From Silliness?”. The former chapter includes a thorough analysis of food kiosks across Europe. Sir Cook’s writing reads as clear and conversation theory that is fun and engaging.

Thinking Architecture by Peter Zumthor

Thinking architecture is a collection of essays and lectures that Zumthor gave, it feels like an intimate conversation. This book feels like fragments of a Tarkovsky movie, except you don’t need the attention span of a saint to follow. When you are in the weeds of construction documents, RFI’s, AFP’s, and need a mind refresher, pick up Thinking Architecture.

Towards a New Architecture by Le Corbusier

One of my first architecture books. When it comes to “un-learning”, which I think is essential to becoming an architect, this book should be at the top of the pile. Corbu was living through the changes of the Machine Age and was drawn to the naked truth of machine design. He wanted to create architecture that was as truthful to its use as a machine is to its use. A classic that should be on every architect’s shelf.

Opportunistic Architecture

A beautifully crafted representation of LTL Architects’ thought process, design considerations, and multimedia graphics across a variety of their projects.

The Architecture of Happiness

The Achitecture of Happiness is a dazzling and generously illustrated journey through the philosophy and psychology of architecture and the indelible connection between our identities and our locations.One of the great but often unmentioned causes of both happiness and misery is the quality of our environment: the kinds of walls, chairs, buildings, and streets that surround us. And yet a concern for architecture is too often described as frivolous, even self-indulgent. Alain de Botton starts from the idea that where we are heavily influences who we can be, and argues that it is architecture’s task to stand as an eloquent reminder of our full potential.

The Architects Studio Companion

A summary of building guidelines to help facilitate the design process. Has helpful diagrams for designing mechanical systems, structural systems, and determining life safety requirements.

Get this book for free by clicking here

Construction & Structures

Why Buildings Stand Up

Here is a clear and enthusiastic introduction to buildings methods from ancient times to the present day, including recent advances in science and technology that have had important effects on the planning and construction of buildings. Explains the theory behind structural marvels such as the Eiffel Tower, Pyramids, and skyscrapers as well as many others. Readers will rejoice… in the physical discoveries, ancient and modern, that create and govern the artifacts inside of which readers spend most of their natural lives.

Why Buildings Fall down

The stories that make up Why Buildings Fall Down are in the end very human ones, tales of the interaction of people and nature, of architects, engineers, builders, materials, and natural forces all coming together in sometimes dramatic ways.This book thoroughly details and discusses the variety of factors that can contribute to structural failures in the form of both sketches and words.

Modern Carpentry

This is a book on how to build buildings. Uses clear, nontechnical language and detailed illustrations to provide the clearest presentation of any carpentry book on the market.- Provides detailed coverage of residential and light commercial construction.- Units are arranged in a logical sequence–similar to the order in which various phases of construction are performed.- Includes step-by-step procedures, which are set off from the text.- Entire unit devoted to safety, plus additional safety material printed in red type throughout the text.- Math appendix covers skills required for carpentry. It has information on construction methods and techniques, types of structural materials and member sizes, as well as MEP info and so much more.

Graphic Guide to Frame Construction by Rob Thallon

If you find yourself working on wood frame construction, this is an excellent starter book to help you understand how framing works and how to start detailing under many different conditions. When you know how carpenters frame, you set yourself up for success because you can speak their language. It will also help you when you are creating unusual designs, because you will understand WHY typical details are the way they are. When you understand the rules on this level, it makes breaking the rules that much easier.

Form & Forces

Here, in one volume, is all the architect needs to know to participate in the entire process of designing structures. Emphasizing bestselling author Edward Allen’s graphical approach, the book enables you to quickly determine the desired form of a building or other structure and easily design it without the need for complex mathematics. This unique text teaches the whole process of structural design for architects, including selection of suitable materials, finding a suitable configuration, finding forces and size members, designing appropriate connections, and proposing a feasible method of erection. Chapters are centered on the design of a whole structure, from conception through construction planning.

Drawing + Graphic

Sketching for Architecture + Interior Design

The debate surrounding hand drawing versus computer-generated imagery has become a hot topic. Having grown up with computers, today’s interior design and architecture students are extremely adept at creating computer imagery, but often lack confidence in their freehand sketching skills, or do not know how to sketch at all. Sketching, and the careful observation that it entails, is essential for the successful development of the next generation of designers. Forty-five step-by-step exercises take the student from the simple three-dimensional forms of furniture, to interiors, to complex building exteriors and cityscapes. Technical topics covered include tools, line weights, perspective, proportion, composition, shading, serial views, and context. Exercises are illustrated with beautiful sketches specially created by the author. Sketching for Architecture and Interior Design is an indispensable and practical guide for students wishing to master the art of looking and sketching

Freehand Sketching

From basic skills to sketch construction using grids, frames, and shapes to the creation of tone, texture, color, and detail, and experimentation with digital rendering, Freehand Sketching helps you build your drawing skill and confidence through mastery of fundamentals. Carefully designed exercises guide you step by step in effective sketching in the studio and in the field. Also covered are helpful topics such as useful equipment, observation skills, framing and editing sketches, rendering people, and keeping a journal.

Architectural Graphics by Francis D. K. Ching

Architectural graphics both inform the design process and serve as the means by which a design is interpreted and built. Complete mastery of the tools and conventions is essential to the successful outcome of any project, and mistakes can cause confusion, time delays, increased costs, and possible catastrophe. Architectural Graphics is the comprehensive guide to professional architectural drawing, with insight from a leading authority in the field.

5-Minute Sketching - by Liz Steel

5-Minute Sketching — Architecture can help artists of all abilities — but especially novices — to understand and reproduce real-life perspective in their drawings. The rules of perspective will become instinctive and the artist can focus on the creative: decorative forms, the setting, the mood, the people, and the activity that gives life to architecture. This book features a comprehensive collection of expert tips, ideas and inspirational examples of amazing 5-minute sketches of architecture. Its bite-sized approach shows how little time is needed to make drawing a part of everyday life.

Design Visualization - by Shima Rabiee

This book intends to enhance the artistic knowledge and perceptions of designers, which will be realized through observation of the work of masters of art and analysis of the masters’ presentation methods, followed by offering ways of effectively applying these methods to the visualization and representation of design ideas. The book also describes the application of these principles to visualization and rendering, providing step-by-step examples. These examples include both digital and freehand drawing techniques as well as their combinations. The book offers simple steps for the visualization, each of which is taught analytically and illustratively.

Architecture + Entrepreneurship

Architect + Entrepreneur: by Eric Reinholdt

I have many books on how to run an architecture business but chose this one in particular because it is up to date on contemporary marketing strategies. Eric Reinholdt is also a believer in the importance of systematizing your business, which I can’t stress enough.

Building a Story Brand - by Donald Miller’s

Donald Miller’s StoryBrand process is a proven solution to the struggle business leaders face when talking about their businesses. This revolutionary method for connecting with customers provides readers with the ultimate competitive advantage, revealing the secret for helping their customers understand the compelling benefits of using their products, ideas, or services. Building a StoryBrand does this by teaching readers the seven universal story points all humans respond to; the real reason customers make purchases; how to simplify a brand message so people understand it; and how to create the most effective messaging for websites, brochures, and social media. Whether you are the marketing director of a multibillion dollar company, the owner of a small business, a politician running for office, or the lead singer of a rock band, Building a StoryBrand will forever transform the way you talk about who you are, what you do, and the unique value you bring to your customers.

The Four Hour Work Week

The 4-Hour Workweek is the step-by-step blueprint to free yourself from the shackles of a corporate job, create a business to fund the lifestyle of your dreams, and live life like a millionaire, without actually having to be one.

This Is Marketing - Seth Godin

Seth Godin has taught and inspired millions of entrepreneurs, marketers, leaders, and fans from all walks of life, via his blog, online courses, lectures, and bestselling books. He is the inventor of countless ideas and phrases that have made their way into mainstream business language, from Permission Marketing to Purple Cow to Tribes to The Dip.Now, for the first time, Godin offers the core of his marketing wisdom in one

This is our List of Best Architecture Books.Do let us know in the comment section your list of Best Architecture books.

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SPECULATION OF SPACES : The Future of Architecture

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This article explains the Speculation of Spaces in detail with its key ideas.

"LANGUAGE IS A DIFFERENT VISION OF LIFE "

Language is the key for communication. It is said that the language is the ability to acquire and use complex systems of communication mainly within the human flock. Observing closely to the linguists we get to know that the language is not only a system of verbal utterance but also symbolic utterance.The view of language is associated with the linguistic anthropology or rather the sociolinguistics.The main fall in a society with diverged languages is that it creates language barriers.

"THE GREATEST OBSTACLE TO INTERNATIONAL UNDERSTANDING IS THE BARRIER OF LANGUAGE"

-CHRISTOPHER DAWSON

Language barriers are formed with or without the consciousness of the diverged group of people belonging to the same society from different spheres of the world. The difference in language lay as the foundation for barriers in communication.Language is a means of communication but not the only means of communication.”ART HAS ITS OWN LANGUAGE”. Leaping back to the history the phrase “HISTORY REPEATS ITSELF” comes true. It is noticed that the trace of first humans has left us solid evidence that art was the first form of communication. The French philosopher Jacques Rousseau who belongs to the eighteenth century has stated that the language originated from emotions of art which was highly influenced across Europe.This eventually paved its results during the French revolution. Immanuel Kant a German philosopher who belongs to the same period of Jacques argued that the language originated from the thoughts of humans in the form of art and not from their emotions. Kant is considered to be the central figure of the modern philosophy. The argument between them had a large impact on the modern philosophy which also proves that art itself is a form of communication.

"THE OBJECT OF ART IS TO GIVE LIFE A SHAPE"

-William Shakesphere.

One’s relation with shapes starts right from his kindergarten which fortunately or unfortunately turns up to be a lifelong relation to the ones in the field of architecture especially. It has no regards to his position in the society but then which is a mandatory. The basic shape which we got to know from the age of three still continues to be the base for the forms and structures we arrive at. One among the most commonly debated topic in any architectural school throughout the world is on the dictum:-

"FORM FOLLOWS FUNCTION"

-LOUIS SULLIVAN

The phrase which eventually paved its way to be a dictum was coined by “THE FATHER OF MODERN ARCHITECTURE” as the result of the impacts and losses made by the second world war.Till then the spaces are noted to be extravagent without any ease on the aspects of function which was visually appealing. The wheel of creativity was streamed on the ease of function as days passed.The spaces were designed according to the people with their occupation when it wasn’t the period of cross culture. Eventually as days passed there were drastic developments in various fields which lead us to the era of cross culture. Till then the spaces were designed according to the needs of people depending on their culture and tradition.Spaces were utilised to the maximum based on the functions happening which became the first step in creating a multi-functional space. These multi-functional spaces have been an evolution rather than the transformation from a huge appealing structure without the ease of functions to a simple, transformable and a compact space which can be converted in the basis of events happening.That was the perfect start for architects to explore space and to give life to an art again!

To know more about Form follows Function in detail click here

"ARCHITECTURE IS A VISUAL ART, AND THE BUILDINGS SPEAK FOR THEMSELVES"

-JULIA MORGAN

Art in architecture is a widely discussed topic across any architectural school. A space communicates with its users on the basis of its function and ambience. Every architect has their own style of architecture which is rather termed as their architectural language.It is not necessary that it must be a space with any function to have a language but also a simple tower has its own language.Thewell known icon of Paris the Eiffel tower would be an apt reference. Eiffel tower is a monumental tower which was built to commomorate the centennial of the French Revolution. The architect Stephen Sauvestre had related the victory to the tallest structure that he has designed in that era.The tower is considered to be an eye sour eventhough it stands as an icon of Paris. Not only relating to events certain architects came up with their own concepts and idiologies which gave them their unqiue style of architecture and language. The great woman architect ZahaHadid who was the first lady architect to bag the prestigious Pritzker award came up with her own fludic architectural style and language.Many architects like B.V.Doshi , Nari Gandhi , Frank Gehry, FL Wright, etchav their own architectural language. All of their works and spaces are percieved with one’s own level of understanding and maturity.

"DESIGN IS NOT JUST HOW IT LOOKS LIKE AND FEELS LIKE....DESIGN IS HOW IT WORKS"

-Steve Jobs

A space does not talk only with its appearance but it perfectly does with its function. Aesthetics of a structure can be brought based on its function itself. The Nisha’s play school at Goa which was designed by Ar.Gerard da Cunha is a standing example.It has been designed in such a way that the building speak for itself.The Ergonomics has been altered or rather devoid based on its function. It has been designed according to the users (i.e) the space has been designed for kids with visual attractions.The structure rather the form itself educates them. Any structure that satisfies the ease of its function is always successful. The building communicates with the kids. The design has worked upon its function. Its users dosen’t see it to be just walls rather they see them with exposed textures with different shapes of colourful fenestrations with markings which helps them in perseving spaces from such a young age for the rest it seem to be a small and a unique piece of work.The perspection various for everyone.

"EVERY THING STARTS WITH A PERSPECTIVE"

The perspective of each differs right from their approach towards work till relaxation.Each one has their own level of perception and understanding.Everyone is from a different environment which has different cultures which has got its own point of perspective.

Hereby, I conclude by convencing that “Everyone has their own perspective of vision”. And it is impossible for a toad in the field of architecture or in the society to understand and percieve a head turning design structure like its creator.This is our opinion on Speculation of Spaces : Future of Architecture.

Do let us know your opinions and views in the topic ” Speculation of Spaces ” in the comment section.

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Form Follows Function In Architecture and Design

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"THE OBJECT OF ART IS TO GIVE LIFE A SHAPE"

-WILLIAM SHAKESPERE

"FORM FOLLOWS FUNCTION"

-LOUIS SULLIVAN

The phrase which eventually paved its way to be a dictum was coined by “THE FATHER OF MODERN ARCHITECTURE” as the result of the impacts and losses made by the second world war. Till then the spaces are noted to be extravagance without any ease on the aspects of function which was visually appealing. The wheel of creativity was streamed on the ease of function as days passed. The spaces were designed according to the people with their occupation when it wasn’t the period of cross culture. Eventually as days passed there were drastic developments in various fields which lead us to the era of cross culture. Till then the spaces were designed according to the needs of people with their culture and tradition. Spaces were utilized to the maximum based on the functions happening which became the first step in creating a multi-functional space. These multi-functional spaces have been an evolution rather the transformation from a huge appealing space/ structure without the ease of functions to a simple, transformable and a compact space which can be converted in the basis of events happening.

To know more about Form follows Function click here

A simple and an elegant form can have different functions. For example the fire station which was designed for the Vitra furniture factory in Germany by the Queen of Curvilinear structures – Ar.ZahaHadid acts as a museum for chairs. She followed “FUNCTION FOLLOWS FORM” and was the one who came up with the concept of de constructivism. The building was judged to be a failure on the bases of aesthetics but successful as a multi-functional building.

"ARCHITECTURE IS A VISUAL ART,AND THE BUILDINGS SPEAK FOR THEMSELVES"

The aesthetics of a building is important but the function and the ease of function happening is more important. Aesthetics of a structure can be brought based on its function itself. The Nisha’s play school , Goa which was designed by Ar.Gerard da Cunha is a standing example. It has been designed in such a way that the building speak for itself. The Ergonomics has been altered or rather devoid based on its function. It has been designed according to the usersi.e the space has been designed for kids with visual attractions. The structure rather the form itself educates them.

The building must compromise the users and not meant to be the other way. Any structure that satisfies the ease of its function is always successful. And hence i conclude with the dictum “FORM FOLLOWS FUNCTION”.

Let us know about your views on Form follows Function in the comment section.

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Famous Architects of All Time You Should Know

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Famous Architects of All Time

This Article lists out the Famous Architects of all time in our opinion.

Architecture is everywhere. It is inescapable, impacting just about every part of your life, whether you realize it or not. Though there are 2.7 million architects across the planet, there are only a handful of architects who have shaped the course of history, capturing the minds and hearts of people around the world.If you’re curious about what architects you should be looking to for inspiration, here are some classic examples of some of the most famous architects who are very notable.

Frank Lloyd Wright

Wright is arguably the most famous architect in the U.S. In his lifetime, he designed 141 works—including houses, offices, churches, schools, libraries, and museums, and he received awards from The Royal Institute of British Architects and the American Institute of Architects. His buildings have been considered among the most significant architectural works to be designed in the last 100 years; 409 of his completed works are still standing today. Wright also helped create the open floor plan designing rooms that flow and open out into each other. His appreciation of nature is apparent in his work and its arguable that no other architect took greater advantage of setting and environment than Wright. An example of this careful consideration can be seen in “Fallingwater,” one of his most famous designs, as well as the Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum in New York City and his personal homes, Taliesin and Taliesin West.

Oscar Niemeyer

Oscar Niemeyer is a Brazilian architect specializing in modern architecture. He was instrumental in reshaping Brazil’s identity in popular culture and in the field of architecture. In addition to making important contributions to his country, he was also a pioneer in the use of reinforced concrete used solely for aesthetic impact. Some of Niemeyer’s most famous works include the Contemporary Art Museum in Rio de Janerio, Natal City Park, and the Ravello Auditorium.

Le Corbusier

Le Corbusier is undoubtedly one of the most famous Architects of all time. A pioneer of modern architecture, Le Corbusier’s career spanned five decades and numerous continents. Corbusier theorized five points that supported his modernist style of architecture: pilotis, free façade, open floor plan, unencumbered views, and roof garden. Many of Corbusier’s designs were airy and open, connecting the visitor to nature and creating a bridge between the structure and the outside world. A few that embody his style are the Esprit Nouveau Pavilion in Paris, chapel of Notre Dame du Haut in Ronchamp, and Villa Savoye near Paris. He was honored as an AIA Gold Medalist in 1961.

Alvar Aalto

Alvar Aalto was a Finnish architect and designer working in furniture, textiles, and glassware. Unlike most architects, his style was very transitional, from Nordic Classicism to pure modernism to organic modernism. His move to modernism may have been influenced by close relationships with individuals like Lazlo Maholy-Nagy and Le Corbusier. Aalto liked to take control of all aspects of a design project, not only designing the building, but the furniture, textiles, and furnishings as well. It wasn’t until the mid-1930s that Aalto received world recognition. In the U.S., his reputation grew following the positive reception of his Finnish pavilion for the 1939 World’s Fair, which another architect on our list, Frank Lloyd Wright, called “a work of genius.” Throughout his career, Aalto designed a wide range of work from civic planning to painting—designing over 500 buildings (including Finlandia Hall and the Paimio Sanatorium, both in Finland) spanning five countries, and won the AIA Gold Medal for architecture.

Rem Koolhaas

Popular architectural figure Rem Koolhaas has a large following due to his unconventional and sometimes provocative buildings. In 1975, Koolhaas, his wife Madelon Vriesendorp, and Elia and Zoe Zenghelis opened OMA, a collective “hothouse research lab,” as described by Icon. In addition to architecture, Koolhaas is also an author (S, M, L, XL and Content), a theorist, an urban planner, a cultural researcher, and a professor at Harvard. Among his numerous projects, he has designed the Seattle Central Library, the Netherlands Embassy in Berlin, and the CCTV Headquarters in Beijing (his largest work to date).

To know more about Rem Koolhaas in detail click here

Norman Foster

Manchester, England-born Sir Norman Foster was both a graduate of Manchester University School of Architecture and Yale University’s Masters in Architecture program. He founded Foster + Partners in 1967, and in 1999, he became a Pritzker Prize winner. Foster + Partners has received over 470 awards and citations for excellence in their 45 years in business, including Gold Medals from the RIBA and the AIA. Some of Foster’s most notable works are the 30 St Mary Axe in London, Willis Faber and Dumas Headquarters in Ipswich, and Wembley Stadium in London.

Renzo Piano

Born in Genoa, Italy in 1937, Renzo Piano was destined to be an architect—or at least a contractor. His father, four uncles, and brother were all contractors, so it seems natural that Piano would go into another adjacent field of construction. After graduating from Politecnico di Milano School of Architecture, Piano worked in the offices of Louis Khan in Philadelphia. Some of his most famous building are the Centre Georges Pompidou in Paris, The New York Times building in New York City, and the Shard London Bridge. Piano won the Pritzker Prize in 1998 and the AIA Gold Medal in 2008.

Zaha Hadid

A student of Rem Koolhaas, Zaha Hadid is seen as a singular, unwavering force in the world of architecture. She is undeniably one of the most famous Architects in the world of Architecture.She has struggled through her career with both clients and collaborators because of her drive, tenacity, and her being a female in a male-dominated field. But despite these setbacks, she has become the most well-known woman architect in the world. In 2004, Hadid was the first (and, at the moment, the only individual) woman to win the prestigious Pritzker Prize award. Hadid’s big break came from an unexpected place, when she was commissioned to design Cincinnati’s Rosenthal Center for Contemporary Art. The New York Times describes the building as “the most important new building in America since the Cold War.” Once her talent was realized, commissions started coming in to design a variety of projects in public transportation, libraries, archives, and opera houses, including Abu Dhabi Performing Art Center and Bee’ah Headquarters, both in the UAE.

Richard Meier

A graduate of Cornell University, Richard Meier worked with a number of notable architects, like SOM and Marcel Breuer. In 1963, Meier established his own practice. Among his most well-known projects are the Getty Museum in Los Angeles, the Barcelona Museum of Contemporary Art, and The Hague City Hall and Central Library in the Netherlands. He has won the Pritzker Prize, the American Institute of Architects Gold Medal, and the Royal Gold Medal from the Royal Institute of British Architects.

To know more about Richard Meier in detail click here

I. M. Pei

Ieoh Ming (or IM) Pei is often called the master of modern architecture. He was born in China in 1917 and raised in Hong Kong and Shanghai. In 1935, Pei moved to the U.S. to go to school at Pennsylvania University School of Architecture, ended up transferring to MIT. After graduating, he began studying at Harvard School of Design, where he became friends with Walter Gropius and Marcel Breuer. Pei’s notable projects include Jacob Javits Center, the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, and the Bank of China Tower, among others. Pei won the Pritzker Prize in 1983 and the AIA Gold Medal in 1979.

ANTONI GAUDI

Antoni Gaudí i Cornet was a Catalan architect known as the greatest exponent of Catalan Modernism. Gaudí’s works have a highly individualized, one-of-a-kind style. Most are located in Barcelona, including his main work, the church of the Sagrada Gaudí’s work was influenced by his passions in life: architecture, nature, and religion. He considered every detail of his creations and integrated into his architecture such crafts as ceramics,wrought ironwork forging and carpentry. He also introduced new techniques in the treatment of materials, such as trencadis which used waste ceramic pieces.

Tadao Ando

Tadao Ando is a Japanese self-taught architect whose approach to architecture and landscape was categorized by architectural historian Francesco Dal Co as “critical regionalism”. He is the winner of the 1995 Pritzker Prize. Ando’s architectural style is said to create a “haiku” effect, emphasizing nothingness and empty space to represent the beauty of simplicity. He favors designing complex spatial circulation while maintaining the appearance of simplicity. The simplicity of his architecture emphasizes the concept of sensation and physical experiences, mainly influenced by Japanese culture.He is one of the famous Architects known for their use of Concrete , natural light in their works.

Louis Kahn

Louis Isadore Kahn was an American architect, based in Philadelphia. After working in various capacities for several firms in Philadelphia, he founded his own atelier in 1935. Kahn created a style that was monumental and monolithic; his heavy buildings for the most part do not hide their weight, their materials, or the way they are assembled. Famous for his meticulously built works, his provocative proposals that remained unbuilt, and his teaching, Kahn was one of the most influential architects of the twentieth century

Frank Gehry

Frank Owen Gehry, CC, FAIA is a Canadian-born American architect, residing in Los Angeles. A number of his buildings, including his private residence, have become world-renowned attractions. His works are cited as being among the most important works of contemporary architecture in the 2010 World Architecture Survey, which led Vanity Fair to label him as “the most important architect of our age” .Said to “defy categorisation”, Gehry’s work reflects a spirit of experimentation coupled with a respect for the demands of professional practice and has remained largely unaligned with broader stylistic tendencies or movements.

Join us in the comment section to let us know if we have left out anyone in our famous Architects list and don’t forget to comment your favorite Architect.

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REVOLUTION IN ARCHITECTURE

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– Logan Mortan

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Fonts That Every Architects Should Have

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In terms of architecture, fonts form a fundamental graphic communication device for presentations with nonverbal reading. This is particularly relevant when a project is publically presented and on show, or for competitions and critiques where the work presented is assessed without its author present.

Choosing the right font for your next or current architecture project can be a timely and stressful process, especially if you don’t already have a few go to options.

A good or bad font can make or break an architecture project and severally contribute to its presentation and level of engagement.

So here we offer a list of our favorite fonts (and the ones that we consider to be the best) that will hopefully help you to decide quicker and stop the endless scrolling through all the “free” font sites! Enjoy !!!…

Helvetica

Woolkarth-Bold

Flux Architect

Architect’s Daughter

Draftsman

Stylus BT

Urban Sketch

Architect Font by Hank Gillette

TK Architect

Futura

Neutra

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Best Websites for Architects & Design Inspiration

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If you have to expand your knowledge about architecture. Have you recently graduated and starting at the bottom of work life? Need some inspiration to pursue architecture then these websites will inspire you and change your perspective as a designer, Here is the list of best websites for Architects and design.

Archdaily

ArchDaily is an online blog focusing on architectural news, projects, products and events catering to architects, designers and other interested parties. ArchDaily is one of the most visited architecture websites worldwide with about 160 million page views per month.

Architizer

Architizer is a digital platform to aid architects in promoting their work, from this it developed into one of the largest platforms for architecture online. They have also grown to become the largest global architecture awards program.

Houzz

Houzz is a website and online community discussing ideas surrounding architecture, interior design, decorating and home improvement. The forums on Houzz are used by the community to help solve each other’s problems.

Design milk

An online magazine dedicated to modern design, design milk offers whats new in art, architecture, interior design, furniture and décor, fashion and technology.

Contemporist

This blog mostly feature, architecture, interior design, furniture, lightning , homedecor and art, but it can be anything, as long as its contemporary.

Dezeen

Dezeen is a London based architecture, interiors and design magazine. Dezeen is the most influential and popular architecture and design magazine in the world and the winner of numerous awards for journalism and publishing.

Designboom

Designboom is a daily blog covering the fields of industrial design, architecture, and international art. Launched in 1999, the publication was the first web magazine to focus on these fields. Newsletters are also published daily.

Do let us know in the comment section with your personal best websites for architects and design and do suggest some best websites.

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ACC Bricks VS Red Clay Bricks : A Comparison

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ACC BLOCK – MANUFACTURING AND COMPARISON WITH RED CLAY BRICK

This article explains the manufacturing process and a comparison on ACC Bricks vs Red clay bricks to make you get a clear understanding to choose between them.

ACC bricks was invented by Johan Axel Eriksson in the mid-1920s. He is a Swedish architect and inventor. Acc bricks is an important innovation of the 20th century in the field of construction. It is precast and lightweight building material that also provides safe structure, insulation, and fire and mold resistance. Acc Block is a unique type of construction materials due to its excellent heat, fire and sound resistance.

In AAC blocks prime ingredients are fly ash, cement, water, quicklime, aluminum powder, and gypsum. The cement strength provides hardness to block and instant curing mechanism by autoclaving. Gypsum provides long term strength to the block. The aluminum paste chemical reaction provides AAC its distinct porous structure, lightness, and insulation properties. The AAC blocks are 2.5 times lighter compared to conventional Bricks while providing similar strengths and specific gravity stays around 0.6 to 0.65. AAC blocks offer around 30 to 35 % saving of structural steel, and concrete, as these blocks reduce the dead load on the building significantly. It is a long run and durable material. it has been used in EUROPE over 90 years for commercial, industrial and residential application and the Middle East for the past 40 years and in America and Australia for 25 years. The report says that AAC now accounts for over 40% of all construction in the UK and more than 60% of construction in Germany. The Indian company has started production of AAC block in late 1972.

MARKET:

Fly ash is available in abundant quantity continuously and of good quality. The traditional manufacturers are showing a high willingness to use fly ash in their products. The current prices of ACC blocks are available in the same range of cement blocks & traditional bricks. But, as compared to traditional clay bricks the fly ash blocks are having more strength, fire resistance, earthquake resistance, lightweight, lesser breakage and saves structural cost by 40%.

It is a known fact that almost 60% of the country’s electricity comes from coal-based power station; the country has a huge stock of fly ash amounting to 60 million tons annually. But, fly ash reuse amount is not too encouraging as only 5% of the country’s total ash has been consumed in different sectors. With the rise in constructional activities and development of a country considering the improvement in the standard of living the demand for building bricks is increasing day by day.

RAW MATERIALS, SOURCES, AND AVAILABILITY:

Fly-Ash:

Fly is a star or major constituent of this product. Thermal Power plants use coal for power generation and fly is waste material of that process. Which is freely available to use. Moreover, the government has not applied any taxes on fly ash. The manufacturer has only to bear the transportation cost for fly ash supply.

Lime:

Active powered lime is required for giving aeration to the blocks. For the production of block, we can buy the active lime directly from the open market. Various qualities of lime are available in the market depending on the raw materials, the mix design can be chosen to get the optimal quality of production.

Ordinary Portland Cement (OPC):

OPC cement is used as a main binder material in the block. It is the main function is to provide early strength to block and also ensures a better cost effect effectiveness for the same. OPC is easily available in the local market is a major reason for using in block manufacturing.

Gypsum:

It is an industrial byproduct of Fertilizer Plant and also easily available material. Gypsum provides long term strength to blocks.

Aluminium powder :

It is used to make the lightweight product. Aluminum powder is added about 0.05 %, which is a too small amount. it reacts with silica and active lime base material to make the aeration, and swell the product, making it a very lightweight product.

Manufacturing Process of Acc Block:

Step: 1 Raw Material Preparation

1. COAL FLY ASH: Fly ash is filled in slurry preparing pond by wheel loader. Where fly ash slurry is prepared of concentration adding rated water, which will be pumped into slurry tank to be stored and ready to be used.

2. QUICK LIME: The active lime powder is stored in a lime silo and ready to be used by bucket elevator, after coming into the factory.

3. GYPSUM: It is stored in the upper shed will be added into slurry pond according to the required proportion, while preparing a slurry.

4. CEMENT: Cement is received by trucks and directly pumped into cement silo to be used.

5. ALUMINUM POWDER PASTE: The aluminum powder added to the mixer to prepare 5% suspending liquid to be used.

Step 2 – Dosing and Mixing:

It is the process of assuring the quality of the product by adding an accurate amount of raw material in mixer. Maintaining the ratio of all ingredients as –

FLY ASH OR SAND: LIME: CEMENT: GYPSUM = 69:20:8:3

· Aluminum is about 0.05% of total dry materials in the mix

· Water ratio = 0.60-0.65

· The cycle of mixing and pouring is 5.5 minutes.

For this mixing fly ash is filled in the container and as the desired weight is poured in, pumping is stopped. In a similar manner cement, lime powder and gypsum are poured into individual containers using conveyors. Once all materials are filled in their individual container in required amount system releases all ingredients into mixing drum. For aluminum powder feeding smaller bowl type structure is also attached as a part of the mixing unit. Once mixing of all material is done for a specified time, a mix is ready to pour in moulds. A dosing unit fills a set quantity of mix into each mould.

This process must be continuous without significant long time; otherwise, if there is a gap between charging and discharging of ingredients, the residual mixture might start hardening and choke up the entire unit. This process is completely automated and requires minimum human intervention.

Step 3 – Casting, Rising and Curing:

After the above raw material mix is ready to be poured is in moulds. AAC blocks moulds can be of various sizes depending upon installed capacity like 4.2m x 1.2m x 0.65m in size. Before pouring mould with the mix, moulds are coated with a thin layer of oil in order to ensure that green-cake does not stick to molds. As we pour slurry in mould, Aluminum reacts with Calcium Hydroxide and water and releases hydrogen gas. It leads to the formation of a small air pocket in the block. Air bubble size is about 2- 5mm. This is the major reason behind the lightweight and insulating properties of AAC block. After all this process is completed, the resulting product is to be cured for least 9 days after casting.

Step 4 – De-moulding and Cutting:

Once a block has achieved cutting strength, it is ready to be remolded and cut as per requirements.

AAC blocks are manufactured in long length strip during casting and then it is cut to required size and shape. Size and shape totally on market demand. Block cutting technologies also differ to machine unit provider.

ADVANTAGES OF AAC BLOCKS:

The advantages are as follows:

1. Fly is the main constituent in Acc Block manufacturing, which is a big problem for thermal power plants to dispose of. Reuse of fly is environment-friendly as no need to dispose of anywhere else.

2. Acc Block has better strength property, best thermal insulation & excellent sound absorption, vibration resistance compared to red bricks. The AAC blocks are lightweight offer easy and quick handling and transportation with lesser breakage.

3. Wall made with Acc Block can be left clean without plaster and gains strength over time. It helps in reducing structural cost by 35%.

4. There is no effect harsh climatic conditions on AAC blocks and will not degrade under normal atmospheric conditions.

5. It does not have any toxic substances nor does it emit odors. AAC block production, management, and disposal do not represent any health risks or damage to the environment. Its manufacturing process develops non-toxic gases.

6. Compare to conventional bricks, AAC block has bigger size resulting in a lesser number of joints. Less joint it means less use of mortar for wall construction.

To know more about ACC bricks in detail click here

Acc Block Vs Clay Bricks Comparison:

Property	Units	AAC Block	Clay Brick
Size	mm	600 x 200 x (75 to 300),	230 x 75 x 115
Size Tolerance	mm	± 1.5	± 05 to 15
Compressive Strength	N/mm2	3 – 4.5 (IS 2185 part 3)	2.5 to 3.5
Normal Dry Density	Kg / m3	550 – 650	1800
Sound Reduction Index	Db	45 for 200 mm Thick Wall	50 for 230 mm Thick Wall
Fire Resistance	Hrs.	2 to 6 (Depending on Thickness)	2
Thermal Conductivity “K”	W / m-k	0.16 – 0.18	0.81
Drying Shrinkage	%	0.04% (Size of block)	–

Comparison Parameters:

Parameter	Acc Block	Clay Bricks
Structural Cost	Steel Saving Upto 15%	No Saving
Cement Mortar (plastering and masonry work)	Less Required due to flat, even surfaces & less number of joints	More required due to the irregular surface and the number of joints.
Breakage	5% less	10 to 12 % Average
Construction speed	Speedy construction due to its big size, lightweight & easy to cut in any size or shape	Comparatively slow
Quality	Uniform & Consistent	Normally varies
Chasing & Fitting	fitting and chasing possible	fitting and chasing possible
Carpet Area	The thickness of walling material is less so more area available	Comparatively low
Availability	Anytime	Shortage in monsoon
Energy Saving	Approx. 30% reduction in air-conditioned load	No such saving
Chemical Composition	Sand/Flyash used around 60 – 70 % which reacts with Lime & Cement to form AAC	Soil is used which contains many inorganic impurities like sulphates etc. resulting in efflorescence

ACC Block Price: Rs. 2000 to 3000 per Cubic meter or Rs. 30 to 40 per Block
Red Clay Brick: Rs. 4 to 6 per Brick

Conclusion:

From the comparative study, it is acknowledged that the AAC blocks have a superior edge over burnt clay bricks. The AAC blocks use in building construction leads to savings in overall project cost; enables to speed up the construction process reduced environmental and social impact. Therefore we can say that AAC block use is a better choice for building construction compare to red burnt clay bricks. It is advisable to contractors, builders, and individuals to encourage this product as its use is in the national interest.

Join us in the ACC Bricks vs Red clay bricks debate in the comment section with your opinions and views.

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What are Architectural Principles ?

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ARCHITECTURAL PRINCIPLES OF BUILDING DESIGNING

This Article lists out the Architectural Principles of Building Design.

A building is one type of shelter or assembles a structure that is firmly attached to the ground and that provides total or nearly total shelter for machines, processing equipment, the performance of human activities, storage of human assets, or any combination of these.

The building design is the strategic plan or document that provides all the information necessary for building construction. This must meet with its owner’s requirements and also satisfy public health, welfare, and safety requirements.

“Architecture is defined as the art or science of building structural design”

“Building construction is the process of assembling structural component or materials to form a building”

Building design may only be done by the person who has a competent education and certification the state in which the building is to be constructed. The design authority is determined on the basis of education, experience, and ability to pass a written test of design skills.

Architects are the competent authority to do legally design practices in a state. Engineers have the specific authority of design specific discipline and are legally permitted to design parts of buildings; in some cases, complete buildings. Sometimes, a person has the certificate of the architect but he is permitted to design certain types of buildings.

Construction of building mainly done by engineers and labors engaged for the purpose of an individual or organization called a contractor. The contractor bid for construction contracts with the building owner under which the contractor agrees to construct a specific building on a specified site and the owner agrees to pay for the materials and services provided.

In the style of a building, architects ought to be guided by these Architectural Principles :

1. The building ought to be created to serve functions such as the shopper.

2. The design should be constructible by known techniques and with available labor and equipment, within an acceptable time.

3. The building ought to be capable of withstanding the weather and traditional usage for an amount of your time such by the shopper.

4. each within and outdoors, the building ought to be visually pleasing.

5. Now part of the building ought to create a hazard to the protection or health of its occupants below traditional usage, and therefore the building ought to offer for safe evacuation or refuge in emergencies.

6. The building ought to offer the degree of shelter from the weather and of management of the inside environment—air, temperature, humidity, light, and acoustics—specified by the shopper and not less than the minimums required for safety and health of the occupants.

7. The building ought to be made to attenuate the adverse impact on the setting.

8. The operation of the building ought to consume a minimum of energy whereas allowing the structure to serve its functions.

9. The total of prices of construction, operation, maintenance, repair, and anticipated future alterations ought to be unbroken at intervals the limit mere by the shopper.

The ultimate objective of style is to produce all the data necessary for the development of a building.

This objective is achieved by the assembly of drawings, or plans, showing what ar to be made, specifications stating what materials and instrumentation ar to be incorporated within the building, and a construction contract between the shopper and a contractor.

Designers additionally ought to observe the construction of the building whereas it’s in the method.

This should be done not solely to help the shopper in guaranteeing that the building is being made in accordance with plans and specifications however additionally to get data that will be helpful in the style of future buildings.

Listed above are the Architectural Principles of building design.

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Best CEMENT for Construction in INDIA

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WHICH IS THE BEST CEMENT FOR CONSTRUCTION

There is a wide range of choice available in cement manufacturing companies in India who offers good quality cement for all different types of construction work. Some of the top brands like Ultratech Cement, ACC, Ambuja Cement, Shree Cement, Ramco Cement, The India Cements Limited, Binani Cement, Wonder Cement, JSW Cement, and Mycem Cement.Let us look into the best cement for house construction in India.

There are two most common types of cement which are generally used in house construction:

Ordinary Portland Cement (OPC).
Portland Pozzolana Cement (PPC).

1) Ordinary Portland cement (OPC):-

OPC is popular and widely used for construction works from a very large time and it is the most popular choice for usage in every type of construction work. Some of the advantages of using OPC are-

It attains the strength in less time.
It is available in three grades: Grade 33, Grade 43 and Grade 53.

Grade 33 and Grade 43 OPC cement are the old grade of cement used for residential construction and nowadays it is replaced by OPC 53 grade of cement

2) Portland Pozzolana Cement (PPC):-

PPC has now become the first choice because of the use of pozzolanic materials that’s imparts better properties to the cement. The strength of this cement is equivalent to OPC 53 Grade cement. Some of the advantages of using PPC are-

It is cheaper than the OPC.
Better resistance against chemicals.
It facilitates better workability.

One thing you should keep in mind while choosing between OPC and PPC is after how many days you want to remove the formwork. The concrete mix takes made from PPC takes more time to set than OPC. So choose accordingly.

Which cement to use where?

Generally, OPC 53 Grade cement is suitable for all RCC structures like footing, column, beam and slabs, where ever initial and ultimate strength is the major structural requirement.

PPC and PSC cement are recommended for general construction works and strongly recommended for Masonry, Plaster, Tiling works as initial strength not being a prime factor of performance in this application.

The use of PPC not only reduces the cost of construction but also helps in improving the quality of the structure.

Where to get the cheapest Cement?

Frankly speaking, these answers depend upon the quantity you buy in one go. For small house construction, it is difficult to buy more than 200 bags at a time (because of the vulnerability of cement getting bad is increased due to storage for a long time without use. Maybe you can try the following tips:-

Know a contractor? Take his help:- Contractors have their preferred retailers/distributors from where they buy. You can not only get a better rate but may also get a credit period of 30–45 days for the payment to be made

Aggregate Demand:- Although unlikely, but if you know someone doing construction neat your plot, you can ask them to pool in and buy things in bulk, this may give you a discount because of volume

Go to 3-4 local retailers: – Just go out and inquire about local vendors, you may get rs. –5 per bag difference in prices because of stock updation delays and age of the material in the shop.

Best Cement in India 2019-20 or Top 10 Cement in India:

The following are the best cement for house construction in India 2019-20. This are the top 10 cement in India nowadays.

UltraTech Cement
ACC Cement
Ambuja Cement
Shree Cement
Ramco Cement
The India Cements Limited
Binani Cement
Wonder Cement
JSW Cement
Mycem Cement

Join us in the comment section to let us know your opinion on best cement for house construction.

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