Architect's Pocket Book 4E (Routledge Pocket Books)

This title was suggested to me by the main contractor working on our period property refurbishment as an excellent primer on building design and materials.I would suggest there are actually two main uses for this book. Firstly as a reference and easy access data book - checking weights, loadings, sizes etc - which as listed in other reviews is ideal for a professional engaged in construction. The data is of course not exhaustive as it is constrained to pocket book size, but it hits an excellent balance between summary and detail. This is an excellent reflection on the author's ability to precis information.Secondly - and where it is most useful for me as a self builder rather than building pro, especially when engaged on a project not supported by an architect - it gives a basic understanding of a wide range of issues. For example, there is a straightforward summary of foundation types, generic benefits of different insulation materials etc which have all helped me either to refine specifications or to judge that I need to go and research further elsewhere. There is also a great deal here to save you trial and error - the spacing needed around cars when designing a garage block, circulation space within bathrooms etc etc. Even if, as a self builder, you are using the services of an architect I would still recommend this as background reading.From the self build perspective I would suggest this goes on to your shelf alongside a copy of Mark Brinkley's book  Housebuilder's Bible (ninth edition) (9th Edition)  which complements this nicely, adding detail to some of the pocket book's introduction to subjects and also invaluable advice on controlling costs.Thoroughly recommended.

I am studying my BA Architecture at uni and got this as due to recommendation by a lecturer. By midway through the first term... I think 95% of students on my course owned this. It is a vital piece of kit to own for helping with your degree.It came with me every week to studio sessions and sat on my work desk at home permanently as it was used so regularly. Every student I know at uni has this in their collection... so if you're going to uni for architecture or interior design... get it!You'll be pleased to know this is a book to have for reference... not one to read cover to cover... But you will know your way around it pretty quick!!

I have just received this book . My initial thoughts are that the book is an excellent treatise on things architectural . A practical book full of the necessary details one needs to design a building and its infrastructure . I think it will become a constant companion , even though I am an Engineer . I recommend it to all professionals linked with building construction .

First purchased this book many years ago A4 size (retired architect) and note much of materialis dated and makes no consideration to technical (building control) standards which varyin england, scotland, wales and n.ireland. Pocket Book requires significant detailed updating.Book purchased for grand daughter who is at university in aberdeen studying architecture.H.G Taylor FRIAS

A classic and a must have

It's a must have. If you think you might need it then just buy it. You will not regret it.

Useful, should always be on your desk.

My boyfriend, who is a graduated surveyor, had this on his wish list because he said it was such a fantastic reference tool during his degree. I got it for him as an extra Christmas gift and constantly catch him reading up on things in there. He really loves it.