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3.72 AVERAGE
3.72 AVERAGE
Beautifully written. de Botton's words just eloquently flow through the entire book, it was SO enjoyable to read. As an amateur enthusiast of both architecture and psychology I was curious as to what this book was actually about and was so pleased after every page on his perspective of design and human ideals. Would recommend to anyone even if you're not that interested in architecture.
"The notion of buildings that speak helps us to place at the very centre of our architectural conundrums the question of the values we want to live by - rather than merely of how we want things to look"
"The notion of buildings that speak helps us to place at the very centre of our architectural conundrums the question of the values we want to live by - rather than merely of how we want things to look"
An enjoyable exploration of the emotional side of architecture.
This book is a mixed bag. I found some valid points on architecture and how we view it, but I had to dig through an awful lot of pretentious drivel to get it. I have very little patience for philosophy, so that might be part of why I found sections of this tiresome. It's probably something important for anyone in the architectural field to read because it makes you think about your area of study/work, but it needs to be taken with several grains of salt.
Precise and to the point. It feels more like a very long college essay but written in a way that people who like nice prose would enjoy. Engineers and architects wouldn't find it informative but definetely will feel identified in many parts of the book.
informative
reflective
slow-paced
challenging
reflective
slow-paced
I've read a number of De Botton's books now and found that while this one was just as philosophical and reflective, it was harder to get as stuck into.
De Botton makes some very compelling arguments and comparisons, however at times it felt like the complete social impact of architecture was overwhelming viewed thorough a Eurocentric lens.
Still worth a read but personally not my favourite.
De Botton makes some very compelling arguments and comparisons, however at times it felt like the complete social impact of architecture was overwhelming viewed thorough a Eurocentric lens.
Still worth a read but personally not my favourite.
This book covers the connection of architecture with our idealized selves, with determining our feelings...unique thinking. It is well supported by numerous photos of architecture around the world.
A great addition to my architecture library and food for thought in looking at and really experiencing buildings and other architectural creations.
A great addition to my architecture library and food for thought in looking at and really experiencing buildings and other architectural creations.
So unusual — this is a primer on life, aesthetics, geometry, social mores, relationships, faith...and it’s a little book with many images tucked in just where you want them to best understand the intricate and interesting ideas being shared. So glad I read it.
inspiring
reflective
fast-paced