American Architecture: An Illustrated Encyclopedia

Cyril M. Harris

Overview

A comprehensive, succinct, wide-ranging, accessible reference to architecture in America.

In over 2,500 definitions and nearly 1,000 illustrations, Cyril Harris covers everything to do with the built environment, from construction materials and techniques to decorative terms and practical devices, dogtrot cabin to skyscraper, covered bridge to Crystal Palace (the New York one), greenbelt to gristmill, impost to pilaster—enriched, when relevant, with intriguing historical or biographical nuggets. The rich diversity of American architecture is reflected in the 126 styles identified in these pages, a unique contribution to the field.

Acclaim

"A most authoritative encyclopedia of the specifically American aspects of architectural terminology and design. . . . With rich illustrations to back up the descriptions. A proud achievement!"

—Adolf K. Placzek, Avery Librarian Emeritus, Columbia University

About the Author

Cyril M. Harris, Professor Emeritus of Architecture at Columbia University and author of many books, lives in New York City.

ISBN: 0-393-73029-8
July 1998
480 pages, Illustrated