The architect's standard reference for over 60 years is now available as a book/CD-ROM set. Use the book for ideas and inspiration. Then use one of five powerful search methods on the CD-ROM to quickly find all the information you need for a design project.
this book isn't incredibly engaging and presents more information than would be in my creative best interest to hold in my pretty little head. However, it is necessary for passing my ARE 4.0.
Excellent visual reference when working on construction designs. It's endorsed by the American Institute of Architects. It provides standard construction methods and designs, including dimensions and capacities. Chapters Include General Planning and Design: (Anthropometrics, sizes, reaches, dimensions of people; Residential Design, Space Planning, Theater Design, Acoustics, Lighting, Fire Protection, Building Systems, Transportation, Building Loads and calculations) Sitework Concrete Masonry Metals Wood Thermal & Moisture Protection Doors & Windows Finishes Specialties (Cubicles, Access Flooring, Fireplaces/Stoves, Flagpoles, Fire Protection, Lockers & Storage, Toilet & Bath, Operable Partitions) Equipment (Vaults/Security, Solid Waste Handling, Furnishings (Residential - ovens, pull down stairs, luggage, kitchen appliances, office furniture, residential furniture) Special Construction (Air-Supported, Special Purpose Rooms, Sound/Vibration/Seismic control, Radiation Control, Pre-Engineered Structures, Sauna's, Pools) Conveying Systems (Elevators, Lifts, Hoists, Cranes) Mechanical (Insulation, Vibration, Plumbing, Heat Generation, Refrigeration, Air Handling, Air Distribution, Heat Transfer) Electrical (Basic materials & methods, Power Generation, High Voltage, Service & Distribution, Lighting, communications, electric heat, lighting protection) Sports (indoor & outdoor, winter, equestrian, aquatics) Energy Design (thermal comfort, climate, solar, earth, insulation & thermal transmission) Historic Preservation
"Architectural Graphic Standards" is the go-to reference book for any inquiries concerning the legality of a building (while still in the stage of its construction).
It's the bible of architecture. given that -- it is both fascinating and essential, but not necessarily meant to keep you up at night. But all things considered as a reference book it is pretty darned amazing in how readable it actually is.