Architectural Detailing: Function, Constructability, Aesthetics

I've been working in the architectural industry under the direction of the project architect for just about three years now. I remember my first couple of years being terrified of details, particularly those of consultants. The information in them was far too abstract for me to truly understand, and me creating my own details was too daunting of a task. I'm at a point now where I can much better understand and appreciate details, and I've finally begun coordinating and drawing my own from the various disciplines. There's certainly still room for improvement, and I've found this book to be a tremendous resource for me. Since many design professionals do not have actual construction experience (myself included), it is difficult to imagine some of the nuances of the various building components and how they actually come together in the field. This book makes you think about the realities of construction and articulates some simple yet often overlooked principles in construction. Effective details result in faster and cheaper assemblies, both in material and labor. Your clients will appreciate the lower budget and shortened schedule. Construction professionals will respect you for understanding and appreciating the realities of construction. It has always been my goal to not design from the ivory tower, and this book has served me well in in paving the path to my becoming a well-rounded architect. I would strongly recommend this book to any soon-to-be design professional who is serious about learning the nuts-and-bolts of building components and how to detail them.

Great fundamental info, some new. Thanks

this was a very helpful resource for construction details, especially as a young architect intern studying for the ARE (i passed all 7 exams the first time -- and referring to books like this was one of my reasons for success -- to god be the glory forever).

An excellent book for architectural students and young professionals, now made better in the second edition. Expanded with more insight and expertise from Professor Allen augmented by Professor Rand makes it invaluable to readers. A must on every professional's book shelf providing the basic fundamentals and principles of detailing.

Great, like all of Edward Allen's books, providing in this case the higher level of abstraction required to inspect as well as detail buildings properly.

digging deeper. After Ching's book, this was my choice at school library. Solving communication issues requires a standard for architectural expression.

Has all the basic details. Its pretty great as an introduction. Well worth it for building a higher level of understanding and keeping up with specialist on the topics either for consultation or on the field observation and discussion.

As much as I like the author's "Building Construction", this book is not recommended. It is based on the premise that many construction details share common principles: shed water by using sloping surfaces, for instance. After a few such groupings are described, it turns into a tips and tricks collection, e.g., do rough work before finish work. It's not a comprehensive reference by any means. On the contrary, it's shamefully padded with many nearly blank pages. Enjoyable reading, nice drawings, just not nearly enough material to justify the price.

Fast shipping, item as described.

sexy little text for details