Introduction to Architecture

by Francis D.K. Ching

A survey of the built environment distills the work of legendary author and illustrator Francis D. K. Ching into a single volume 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. The book explains the experience and practice of architecture and allied disciplines for future professionals, while those who love the beauty of architecture drawing will delight in the gorgeous illustrations included. For those pursuing a career in architecture or anyone who loves architectural design and drawing, Introduction to Architecture presents a beautifully illustrated and comprehensive guide to the subject. Preface vii 1 Introduction: Object, Space, Building, City 1 2 The Beginnings of Architecture: Early History—From Ancient Times to the Renaissance 13 3 A Concise History: Architecture from the Renaissance to the Contemporary 37 4 Fundamentals of Architecture: Form 51 5 Fundamentals of Architecture: Space 79 6 Fundamentals of Architecture: Order 125 7 Elements of Architecture: Types, Systems, and Components That Inform Design 165 8 The Design Process: Tools and Techniques for Generating Ideas 199 9 Materials of Architecture: Their Qualities, Characteristics, and Behaviors 231 10 Methods of Construction 249 11 Building Structure: Resisting the Forces That Act against Buildings 281 12 Building Systems 299 13 Architectural Practice and Communication 321 14 Allied Disciplines: Interior Design 349 15 Allied Disciplines: Urbanism 373 Glossary 409 Index 415

Genres: Architecture, Design, Nonfiction, Reference, Art

432 pages, Paperback

First published September 20, 2012

About the author

Frank (Francis D. K.) Ching (born 1943) is a widely recognized author of books addressing architectural and design graphics. Ching's books have been widely influential and continue to shape the visual language of all fields of design. He is a Professor Emeritus at the University of Washington.

Reviews

[Abdo Alsamin · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is a comprehensive guide to architecture, covering all the basics. It is highly recommended for first-year students as a valuable resource to assist them throughout their university projects.

[John Roodt · Rating 5 out of 5]

The unintentional artist’s book

As a systems architect & aspiring visual artist I love to glance over the shoulder of Architects of the Built Environment from time to time to see what new ideas they have. This is a wonderful & comprehensive intro to Architecture but the art work is a visual feast & unexpected bonus

[Sian Bradshaw · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a good book but I think I bought the wrong one. It's a very good dictionary of terms and explains how the different materials work and the names of different approaches to architecture. It feels like a reference book you would have on hand, and less a tour de force of what architecture is.

[Alex Maskill · Rating 5 out of 5]

This being an introductory text, I think I have a right to speak as a total dilettante and say that despite not knowing whether I've been totally misled, this book feels like it's really provided a basic but cohesive framework for thinking about architecture in a structured way. It's also beautifully presented.

[keereads · Rating 4 out of 5]

✔️