Old-House Dictionary: An Illustrated Guide to American Domestic Architecture (1600-1940)
This is a concise and easily understood glossary to building elements associated with American domestic architecture. More than 1500 terms are defined in 750 alphabetically arranged entries; the 456 line drawings are clear, simple, and effective. Related terms are grouped together for ease of use, e.g., "brick (types)" describes 21 common varieties of brick. Entries often provide synonyms and variant usages, as well as page numbers for relevant illustrations. An appendix lists many of the book's terms under 18 broad subject headings (fireplaces, joinery, walls, etc.). Architectural dictionaries are typically international in scope or specialized in the inclusion of construction techniques and tools. This work is neither, but will serve well as a companion to guides that focus on the architecture of American houses.- Douglas G. Birdsall, North Dakota State Univ. Lib., FargoCopyright 1989 Reed Business Information, Inc.--This text refers to an out of print or unavailable edition of this title.