The Function of Ornament
by Farshid Moussavi
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Book Reviews of The Function of Ornament
Book Review: Nice presentation of some innovative architectural systems
Summary: 4 Stars
In this graphic guide to building ornamentation in the twentieth century, Moussavi and Kubo have collected an interesting cross-section of architectural projects that demonstrate the mechanisms through which contemporary architecture connects itself to current culture.
Through the selected case study projects, the editors endeavor to illustrate the means through which ornamentation is the very essence of the building. Not being merely 'ornamental' and self-indulgent, the articulation presented is indeed the agent of the architect's ideas.
Various materials and effects are investigated ranging from 'dematerialized light' to 'relief patterns'. The impressive array of diagrams are extremely clear and useful. A typical system is defined through perspective views, sections, pattern diagrams, detailed assembly drawings and relevant notes.
If you are looking for component and systems analysis of projects such as Future Systems' amorphous Selfridges Department Store or Herzog and de Meuron's embossed copper skin at the De Young Museum; look no further.
Book Review: Excellent and Elegant
Summary: 5 Stars
This is not a technical manual as a couple reviewers seems to wish, nor a survey of ornament in architecture. Nor does it ever claim to be such--reviewers should review a book not wish it was a different book. Instead it represents the results of graduate level research at Harvard Graduate School of Design into a revitalized understanding of the role of ornament in architecture and how one employs technical and material means to produce architecture effects and phenomena. As such the book is extremely clear, useful and elegantly designed and thoughtfully organized. Great for students and professional who want to think.Book Review: Ornament redefined...
Summary: 5 Stars
I purchased this book after a fellow colleague recommended it to me and I must say it's become one of my favorite books because of its explicit and clear way of explaining the concepts of the buildings selected. All architecture books should be written this way. Farshid did a great job of validating her standpoint of ornament... A concept that has been re-defined in this book.Book Review: Students only
Summary: 1 Stars
I'll agree with some other reviews and say that this is only for students. The book DOES make some intelligent and iconic building systems very clear, but it is only a cursory look. You expect to turn the page to find more investigation and its not there. So this book is only for undergrad students. Professionals look elsewhere.Book Review: Just for student, not for a professional
Summary: 1 Stars
Diagrams are looking good,but all lack of real professional structural analysis. Just good enough for students and good initial approach.
But I am really worry about some miss-understanding of facade structure by unclear student's language & non-experienced peoeple's analysis