The classic, bestselling reference on architecture now revised and expanded! An essential one-volume reference of architectural topics using Francis D.K. Ching's signature presentation. It is the only dictionary that provides concise, accurate definitions illustrated with finely detailed, hand-rendered drawings.

Presented in Francis D.K. Ching's signature style, this long-awaited Second Edition of A Visual Dictionary of Architecture is a remarkable, one-of-a-kind compendium that combines textual definitions and hundreds of superb line drawings to illuminate a comprehensive body of essential terms in architecture, including important interrelationships between building components. Grouped by themes, such as history, systems, structures, forms, construction, environmental issues, and behavior, all terms have their visual complement and can be readily accessed in a number of different ways.

Whether you're an architect, interior designer, construction practitioner, or simply interested in the field of architecture, A Visual Dictionary of Architecture, Second Edition provides an authoritative source of information for tracking down an elusive word—and a delight for simple armchair browsing.

The classic, bestselling reference on architecture now revised and expanded!

An essential one-volume reference of architectural topics using Francis D.K. Ching's signature presentation. It is the only dictionary that provides concise, accurate definitions illustrated with finely detailed, hand-rendered drawings. From Arch to Wood, every concept, technology, material and detail important to architects and designers are presented in Ching's unique style.

• Combining text and drawing, each term is given a minimum double-page spread on large format trim size, so that the term can be comprehensively explored, graphically showing relations between concepts and sub-terms
• A comprehensive index permits the reader to locate any important word in the text.
• This long-awaited revision brings the latest concepts and technology of 21st century architecture, design and construction to this classic reference work

It is sure to be by the side of and used by any serious architect or designer, students of architecture, interior designers, and those in construction.