Architecture books from our Library
1. Minimum by John Pawson
Phaidon Press Ltd, London UK 1996
The book Minimum is a catalogue of minimalist spaces, textures, and environments. Minimum consists of mainly images – with very little text or explanation. It is a great book to flick though when we are in need of inspiration, it has been a great addition to the library!
“This book is an attempt to crystallize some thoughts about the notion of simplicity as it can be applied to architecture and art. And beyond that, to discuss simplicity as a way of life, to look at simplicity as a means for ordering and defining the everyday rituals and necessities of existence.”(1)
Minimalist inspiration found in Minimum, page 96.
2. Ernest Neufert Architects’ Data: Handbook of Building Types
Second (International) English Edition, published in Great Britain by Granada Publishing Ltd, 1980
General Editor: Vincent Jones
‘In the past dimensions based on the human body, and on the man’s daily activities, provided a natural basis for all units of measurement. Common units like the inch – twelfth part of the foot, palm hand span, cubit – length of the forearm…’
– The Basic Data, The human scale in architecture page 1
Neufert’s handbook is an essential addition to any architect’s library. The handbook contains information on architectural spaces, the dimensions of furniture and efficient kitchen layouts. This is all useful information, which helps us design more functional buildings.
3. Frederick H. Newman, Lectures on Architecture by Andrew Leach
A&S/books, Ghent University 2003
Frederick H Newman worked for the Ministry of Works during the 1950s. He worked on medium density designs such as the Crossover Flats and the Star Block Apartments. Dixon Wild Architects have worked on many Star Block Apartments over the years and this book has provided much insight into their history.
4. Beyond the State, text by Bill McKay and Andrea Stevens Photography by Simon Devitt
Penguin Books Ltd, NZ 2014
Beyond the State looks at the origins of the New Zealand State Home. It has lovely old photographs and sketches of the first state homes. We refer to our library for this book when we work on Kainga Ora projects.
Photographs in Beyond the State, of the first NZ State Homes (page 42/43, 48/49)
5. Group Architects, Towards a New Zealand Architecture. Edited by Julia Gatley
Auckland University Press, NZ 2010
The Group were architects from the mid 20th century. They set out to establish New Zealand’s very own architecture style. The book, Group Architects provides insight into the establishment of The Group and illustrations of their work. It is a perfect book to read if your interested in the history of mid 20th century NZ architecture.
The book contains illustrations of several Group projects. Including the Rotherham House on page 48, which DWA have visited in the past.
Rotherham House plans, page 47 of Beyond the State.
