A nontechnical introduction to architectural structure, history, and criticism. This book includes a discussion of the basic inspiration for architecture, an exploration of space, system, and material, and an examination of the language and history of architecture. It shows the nonspecialist how to read a design in plans, sections, and elevations.

"ABC of Architecture" is an accessible, nontechnical introduction to architectural structure, history, and criticism. Author James F. O'Gormon moves seamlessly from a discussion of the most basic inspiration for architecture (the need for shelter from the elements), to an exploration of space, system, and material, and, finally, to an examination of the language and history of architecture. He shows the nonspecialist how to read a design in plans, sections, and elevations, and how architects, like other artists, make creative use of space and light.

Preface Precis Architecture A Is for Utilitas B Is for Firmitas C Is for Venustas Architecture as Communication Learning the LingoGlossary Further Reading Index