Essential Architecture Reading List
Books
While we consume vast amounts of digital information, printed media has a tactile nature that imprints a stamp on ones memory, controls our focus and ingrains itself in our base of knowledge.
Fundamentals
Architectural Graphic Standards
Author: The American Institute of Architects
Stuck on a detail, trying something new, need to know some exact measurement for a common condition, system or standard, this book literally has it all. In the beginning of my career I pulled this book out on the daily for reference, I do find the older versions were of greater assistance and heavier on the graphics (hence the name), if you can get your hands on a used version it will be a great addition to your library.
Building Construction Illustrated
Author: Francis D.K. Ching
In School we simply called this book ‘Ching’ for the authors name, it was easily the best course recommended book and became somewhat of a bible for me as a student. Graphically satisfying it’s a comprehensive visual guide to the basics of building construction. A great entry book for any student of architecture.
Ontario Building Code Vol 1 and Vol 2
It goes without saying that if you want to practice architecture or interior design in any capacity you need to have an updated copy of the building code. Be aware building codes update frequently and a new edition is not always how these codes are issued to the public, for that matter the binders are handy but large and bulky. Orderline makes an affordable paper back that includes updates making it more likely to live on your desk and be referenced..
Details
Detail in Contemporary Residential Architecture 2
Author: David Philips and Megumi Yamashita
Having spent years pouring over and drawing challenging details for some of Canada’s award wining public and private sector buildings part of me walks through this world looking at built conditions wondering ‘how did they do that’. This book peels back the curtain on select buildings and gets you into the planning and details. A look behind the scenes in a simple graphic standard that is akin to Arch Daily or Dwell.
Detail in Contemporary Concrete Architecture
Author: David Philips and Megumi Yamashita
Laid out and presented in the same fashion to Detail in Contemporary Residential Architecture 2 this book focuses on concrete construction. I often use raw materials and concrete is a product I work with on all of my projects, weaving from utility, structure and architectural conditions. Concrete being a porous and challenging material that will fit what ever mold you give it of course I want to see how others are using it beyond the pretty magazine pictures.
Inspiration
Canadian Contemporary
Author: Collection of Authors, Foreword by Dr. Avi Friedan, edited by Hannah Jenkins
Filled with some of my favorite Canadian Architects, designers and projects, this book is beautifully presented honoring Canada’s best. Take a look at the local juggernauts we work alongside and be inspired by the standout modern dwellings that dot our country side.
Cabins Escape to Nature
Author: Damon Hayes Couture
A striking collection of moden cabins that frequent the most popular architectural magazines and digital space. For the visual glutton this book features large images alongside a simplified version of select architectural drawings.
Cabin Porn Inside
Author: Zach Klein
A popular book sitting on bookshelves in the background of Zoom meetings, youtube videos and the like. A tasteful collection of small cabins, as one that works in small buildings I will often pick this book up to see how others build small.
Wood Contemporary Houses in Wood
Author: Joaquim Ballarin and Mariona Villavieja
This book has been a staple in my library for many years and one I have often pulled for inspiration. While the book dates back to 2005 the projects within still hold true to today’s standards. I tend to appreciate books that show the designer’s plans, sections and elevations, it gives me a window into their thought process beyond just a pretty picture.
Business
This is Marketing
Author: Seth Godin
The covers gone, the pages are creased and filed with highlights. Seth Godin makes marketing personal and his message resonates. I have read this book multiple times and various individuals traversing through my office for a meeting or chat have pointed to it and made note. It’s a well consumed book and a logical read as what are we doing if not marketing ourselves.
Building A Story Brand
Author: Donald Miller
Another one filled with highlights, creases and saved pages, story brand outlines 7 elements of great story telling and how to implement that into a clear business strategy. A good humble read to rebalance your business message and perspective on how people see you and your product vs. how you may see yourself.
Personal
One Man’s Wilderness
Author: Dick Proenneke edited by Sam Keith
A dream I have always had and one my friends and family can attest to is to live in the woods. Life through the eyes of Dick Proenneke who did just that, follow along as he journals life and construction of a log cabin in Alaska. An inspiring read to the avid nature-lover, grab a cup of coffee, cozy up to the fire and get lost in this icon’s tale.
Kitchen Confidential
Author: Anthony Bourdain
Having spent a good part of my younger years working in commercial kitchens this book cuts, now add to that the compelling voice of Anthony Bourdain and it’s clear why it’s become such a popular book. An honest look at his life and experiences coming up as a cook including all the bad behavior pre fame.
Norwegian Wood Chopping, Stacking, and Drying Wood the Scandinavian Way
Author: Lars Mytting
Do you have a wood burning fireplace, chop, store and sort firewood? Learn the finer points of the tools, forest, woodpile, seasoning, the stove and fire. I love fire, it’s calming, romantic and mesmerizing. I have a stove in my office, a pit in the yard and you’d be hard pressed to pull me from the fire on our multiple yearly camping trips, it’s my jam. This book gives you all the necessary knowledge to improve every aspect of how you burn to keep those toes warm all year.
Axe Handbook
Author: Buchanan-Smith
If you’ve dropped by the office you can see my weapons of choice sitting in the vestibule next to the wood samples. Most people joke about what would happen if a bill goes unpaid but the truth is there is a real beauty to this tool and if maintained and used properly can last more then your life time. One would think there isn’t enough information to create a book on axes, you thought wrong, it’s compellingly written, illustrated well and filled with knowledge.
