Uncommon Structures, Unconventional Builders

By Alan Van Dine

They are the most remarkable constructions in human history--from the Tower of Babel to China's Great Wall to Machu Picchu--but how and why did they come to be? Here are the answers, entertainingly explained. UNCOMMON STRUCTURES contains the most amazing, mind-boggling constructions in history. This big, beautiful book features seventeen lively and detailed chronicles of our most ambitious and legendary building projects--the visions and ambition with which they were launched, and the many twists and turns they took as they came into being. Wide-ranging in scope, encompassing a myriad of cultures, time periods and building materials, this lush volume will fascinate general readers, but is substantive enough to hold the interest of architects and designers. Each section is enhanced by a full range of illustrations: color and black-and-white photography, historic drawings and plans, fine art, line art, --the gamut. These are stories of human (and in one case, animal) ingenuity and vision that have inspired and enlighten men and women through the ages.

• Format: Hardcover
• Language: English
• ISBN: 1579121616
• ISBN13: 9781579121617
• Release Date: June 2001
• Publisher: Black Dog & Leventhal Publishers
• Length: 208 Pages
• Weight: 3.70 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.8" x 10.8" x 12.7"

Customer Reviews

Great Book AND Great Gift....

"Uncommon Structures, Unconventional Builders" by Alan Van Dine is an exceptional book and is certainly worth it's price. It is in a large "coffee table" size and format that makes it great for a gift - not only to those interested in architecture, but DEFINITELY someone interested in history, or who is a builder, or anyone who has an inquisitive mind. It is NOT simply for men as I was very intrigued with the book.Some of the structures featured include: Machu Picchu, the Great Wall of China, the Winchester House (that has SO many additions and secret passageways), Mesa Verde, Petra, the Tower of Babel, Igloos and many more.It is an excellent book that will immerse any reader into the marvels of these structures, of which many would be considered to be "the new 7 Wonders of the World."

Interesting

I bought this as a present for someone interested in architecture, but proceeded to read it before it was wrapped! This book featured interesting buildings with plenty of trivia to later impress your friends. An interesting book, full of pictures and drawings. Perhaps not the most academic book on the subject, but fun. For a laywoman like myself, enjoyable.