Architecture Now II

Rating:
Summary: A 'K-Tel' collection of the top 40
Review: 'AN!'is a comprehensive directory featuring the works of just about everybody who is anybody famous and/or affiliated with famous institutions. Also included are those who have a standing membership in the architecture mafia or have been tapped for future membership. (Don Pietro Eisenmann not included here. He don't like to swim with the small fish, know whaddimean, Tony?) And as a directory, it is pretty neutral in so far as it is not tilted to favor or sell any particular style among so many that are sprouting today. And as a directory, it is useful to those who want a visual overview of what is generally considered exciting by oggly-eyed students and those in the business. This book in no way helps you figure out whose work is important but it gives you a, oh, say, 120-degree panoramic picture of who's who. In addition to being a name directory, this book is like a dictionary of slang, out of necessity. That means, it will be outdated by the time you get your next commission. The book, this and the one that preceded it, contain works done in the name of architecture and spans the gamut from the pretentious to the dead sincere; from the cartoony to the reality-driven; from the arty-farty to the real-estate-minded; from the laughably onanistic to the genuinely original. In a word, it's got the good, the bad, and the ugly, all under one roof. Only thing missing is the truly fantastic. BR>This second volume is visually more interesting than the first. But, regardless, this volume is a continuation of the first--both volumes being really one book divided into two--and thus this review really covers both-as-one. As an omnibus, it serves its function admirably by being so inclusive. A good buy, especially for students and teachers.
For those old enough to have lived thru the happ'nin 70's will know that why I call this the 'K-Tel' Collection. A double LP set or one 8-track. Order yours now. Cassettes also available.

Rating:
Summary: Now?
Review: If you are like me you would buy this book not because of the flashy pictures, but because the author's name is Jodidio. Say it! It's fun! Just like the pictures in this book. Readings are redundant for anyone who keeps up on their popular architecture periodicals. Most of the featured projects and architects have also been showcased in magazines I read a year or two ago.

Rating:
Summary: Now?
Review: If you are like me you would buy this book not because of the flashy pictures, but because the author's name is Jodidio. Say it! It's fun! Just like the pictures in this book. Readings are redundant for anyone who keeps up on their popular architecture periodicals. Most of the featured projects and architects have also been showcased in magazines I read a year or two ago.

Rating:
Summary: Architecture Now, Volume 2
Review: In a characteristically perceptive and graceful introduction, Paul Goldberger suggests that the world has caught up with the good sense and refined sensibility of this Seattle firm. This is a handsome, expansive study of a dozen houses, built for people of means and taste-a rare combination. All but two are located in the northwest, and each immerses you in the natural beauty of its site and its inner serenity. (Michael Webb is the book reviewer for LA Architect magazine.)