Top Books for Architectural Detailing
Introduction
Architectural detailing is a crucial skill for architects and technologists. However it can be quite difficult for us to envision how our design ideas actually come together. Further to this, depicting complex material assemblies and connections through drawing can also be challenging.
During my studies, one of the hardest things to find was good architectural details to use as precedent studies. I used to spend hours flipping through books in the library, trawling the internet, trying to find specific details. There never seemed to be one resource that covered all my needs. I guess it is safe to say that is still the case.
However, there are some really great books out there that have a wealth of information when it comes to architectural detailing and construction. These architectural detailing books help break down this key skill for us. They provide helpful tips supported by precedent studies that act as prototypes for new details.
So whether you are a student wanting to learn how to detail or a professional seeking to expand their knowledge, I hope you find this list of the best architectural detailing books useful! It includes my favourites, starting of course, with a little bit of shameless self promotion… 🙂
Understanding Architectural Details
There are a number of books that can really help with construction detailing, I’ll start with Understanding Architectural Details from First In Architecture!
We have a range of construction books that include really helpful graphics demonstrating the details, and you can download all of the cad drawings and all of the sketchup drawings that go with the books!
Our range includes:
- Residential construction (for both UK and North American)
- Commercial construction
- Loft Conversions
- Passivhaus
- Basements
You can find out more here:
Understanding Architectural Details Books for Construction (firstinarchitecture.co.uk)
Here is a video of the latest Residential book:
Shh! It’s a little known secret that First In Architecture offers student discounts for the books.
Just send us an email at hello@firstinarchitecture.co.uk and we will sort it for you 🙂
Construction Details Textbooks:
Modern Construction Handbook
Barry’s Introduction to Construction of Buildings
Advanced Construction Technology
Building Construction Handbook
Barry’s Advanced Construction of Buildings
Structural Engineering for Architects: A Handbook
Construction of Houses
Construction Technology
Constructing Architecture: Materials, Processes, Structures. A Handbook
Excellent North American Textbooks:
Building Construction Illustrated
The Architect’s Studio Companion
Architectural Graphic Standards
The Architecture Reference & Specification Book
Architectural Detailing – Edward Allen
Detailed Manuals:
Timber Construction Manual
Modern Concrete Construction
Glass Construction Manual
Facade Construction Manual
Timber Frame Construction
Precedent and Case Study Details:
Detail in Contemporary Residential Architecture 2
Detail in Contemporary Timber Architecture
Passive House Details
Architecture In Detail II
Detail in Contemporary Concrete Architecture
Sustainable Architecture
Detail in Contemporary Glass Architecture
Interior design:
Construction and Detailing for Interior Design
Time-Saver Standards for Interior Design and Space Planning
Materials for Design
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You might also be interested in:
If you wish to find more specific architectural detailing books, check out the RIBA website:
Construction and Engineering | RIBA Books
Here are some of our other posts on architectural detailing:
Conclusion
We hope this post helped you find some architectural detailing books to get you started.
Thank you for reading! Happy detailing 🙂
Your Comments
Have we missed your favorite architectural detailing book? Let us know in the comments below.
Also, feel free to share what part of detailing you really struggle with.
Thank you!
Author
Written by Valanne Fernandes, a Part 1 Architecture graduate. Valanne is a content creator with First In Architecture, spending her time researching, writing and designing inspiring new content for the website.
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