Banister Fletcher (1866–1953)

A lovely early edition of a standard work. Dated (obviously), but a wonderful piece of architectural history.

The early editions of this book are fantastic, the comparative method is insightful and the plates are clear and well drawn. Unfortunately, they cut them back in the later editions and now you get postage-stamp sized photos of buildings in greyscale instead. My parents really shouldn't have bought me this, it's a waste of £100. I got an earlier edition for £4 secondhand though.

Highly recommended for use as a doorstop or paperweight. Or for aiding in laminating architectural models.

I was just talking about this book today and how revolutionary it must have been when it was first introduced. It still excels in the fresh and simple comparison of different architectural styles and periods. The first book any architectural student should have on their bookshelves.

This is "the bible" for architectural history. With a publication history that goes back to the first edition in 1896, this venerable tome is THE reference work when wanting to research a period, a country,
or an architect. It was the book I used when I was an architectural student in the early sixties, and I trust is still the work of choice in architectural schools. Good old Banister Fletcher!