[audiobook] Experiencing Architecture by Steen Eiler Rasmussen at Arts-Photography

Review

29 of 30 people found the following review helpful. Excellent and Accessible Architectural OverviewBy Robert I. HedgesI am interested in architecture as a hobby. and as a potential career at some point in the future. so the perspective I had when reading this book was that of an informed amateur. I cant praise this little book enough. In its pages are the best explanations and analyses of contrasts. textures. shapes. and colors that I have seen in one single. condensed location.Originally published in Denmark in 1959. and therefore lacking some of the more contemporary and postmodern design trends. this is an invaluable analysis of primarily European design through the mid twentieth century. This book is profusely illustrated with black and white photographs (most of which were taken by Rasmussen himself) and a fair number of drawings. all of which greatly assist the reader with his understanding of the material.Specific buildings mentioned are too numerous to list. but the run the gamut from St. Peters basilica in Rome. to the haunting and sinister Palazzetto Zuccari (also in Rome). to the ultramodern Johnson Wax Company building in Racine. Wisconsin by Frank Lloyd Wright. and the very modern study in open spaces found in the Copenhagen Police Headquarters (one of my personal favorites.)This would be a useful guide to architects. and is the single best introduction to historical architectural style that I have yet found. Anyone with even a passing interest in architectural design or history would love this book.0 of 0 people found the following review helpful. Great book for the layperson looking towards a deeper (but ...By george mchughGreat book for the layperson looking towards a deeper (but not academic) understanding of architecture.The organization/progression of the book is impeccable. and inspires you to read quickly.6 of 6 people found the following review helpful. Timeless classic in this fieldBy Zaine RidlingIn this tightly packed and perfectly illustrated book. Rasmussen manages to convey the elements that make architecture significant to people. governments. cultures. and even to historic god-believers (and why). If someone asked me to recommend one book to read about architecture. this would be it. A classic. indeed.