ARCHITECTURA: Elements of Architectural Style

Influenced by history, shaped by ingenuity, and defined by creativity, architecture is the world's most universal art. It is the point where design, engineering, and culture intersect - not only to produce effective buildings, but to create the icons that define the world's cultures, from the temple and the house to the skyscraper and the stadium.

By examining in detail the individual elements, such as foundations, walls, roofs, staircases, and windows, that make up public and private buildings, Architectura: Elements of Architectural Style presents a unique overview of the history of architecture and building. It describes the purpose, design and practical applications of these component parts, and illustrates clearly the varied expressions of each part. In addition, the book highlights the technical accomplishments of builders, architects, and engineers, as well as the distinctive aesthetics of particular periods and movements.

* Written by an international team of architectural historians and architects

* Explores the origins and functions of architectural details such as floors, doors, cellars, arches, gates, and gutters

* Features the world's most famous buildings, including many UNESCO World Heritage sites, and less well-known structures

* Includes more than 500 full-color photographs of interior and exterior views and details of buildings

* Contains more than 60 original and highly detailed illustrations