"Readers will be able to rejoice with the author in the physical discoveries, ancient and modern, that create and govern the artifacts inside of which readers spend most of their natural lives."

--New York Times

W. W. Norton & Co. Web Site
February, 2000

Here is a clear and enthusiastic introduction to building methods from ancient time to the present day, illustrated throughout with line drawings. In addition, Mr. Salvadori discusses recent advances in science and technology that have had important effects on the planning and construction of buildings.