Architectural Pattern Language Urban Architecture Construction (Volume 1, Volume 2)

Author: Alexander et al. (USA), translated by Wang Tinde and Zhou Xuhong
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2002-02-01
Features: Christopher Alexander is an outstanding American architectural theorist. The "A Pattern Language" he led in writing was widely recognized and highly praised in the architectural community upon its publication and had a profound impact on the construction industry. "A Pattern Language" creatively and convincingly describes 253 patterns related to towns, neighborhoods, residential areas, gardens, and rooms, offering fresh blueprints for design, planning, and construction. It is full of innovative ideas and unconventional thinking. The author writes, "We are firmly convinced that this language is superior to a manual, a teacher, or another possible pattern language. Many of the patterns here will, we believe, become part of humanity in the present and the next 500 years, part of humane action." As an American "Architectural Design" review stated: "This may be one of the most important books on architectural design published in the 20th century." The vitality of "A Pattern Language" lies in "human-centeredness." It is the central theme of the book, like a bright red thread running through it. The interlines of each pattern are filled with a strong sense of humanity and meticulous care for people, such as protecting the ecological environment, how to green and beautify towns and residential areas, opposing the monotony of architectural styles, encouraging interpersonal interaction, and emphasizing the harmonious unity of people, society, and the natural environment, and so on. The book is richly referenced and comprehensive but not cumbersome. It is coherent, interrelated, well-organized, and illustrated. "A Pattern Language" is truly an exceptional work, full of the spirit of the times and a beautiful vision for the future. It is a perfect combination of architectural science and art, with strong vitality and immense charm. For a broad readership, from the perspective of architectural science, this book can be read as an inspiring model language for urban construction and planning; from the perspective of architectural art, it can also be enjoyed as a long narrative prose poem: it includes both in-depth and accessible analyses of general architectural principles and human behavior psychology, as well as lyrical descriptions of blue skies, clear waters, green trees, and flowers, wild grasses, small insects, flying birds, and swimming fish, as well as the fresh air and intoxicating fragrance that permeate the wilderness, and the diverse architectural styles, folk customs, and interesting anecdotes from around the world.