Books on sustainable architecture and building

This document lists some of the books and articles available in the area of sustainable architecture, building and construction. Where possible an approximate price are given as of July 2003 (updated scince then if possible), these may change over time.

Book of the Month

Protecting the Future: Stories of Sustainability from RMIT University
By: Sarah Holdsworth and Tricia Caswell
Paperback; Photographs, Illustrations, 202 pages
Published: October 2004, CSIRO Publishing, ISBN: 0643090657 - AU $29.95A great book to read on how different academicshave incorporated sustainability within their practice and or lives. Purchase directly from http://www.publish.csiro.au/nid/18/pid/3947.htm

Other books

Understanding Sustainable Architecture
By: Williamson, Terry; Radford, Antony; and, Bennetts, Helen
Paperback; 18 B&w Photographs, 3 Line Drawings, 4 Tables, 176 pages
Published: October 2002, Taylor & Francis Books Ltd, ISBN: 0415283523Cost - $60-70
A great book to read as a foundation of any research into sustainble built environments. It discusses and analyses sustainability including the assumptions, beliefs, goals and bodies of knowledge that are part of designing sustainable buildings and other built developments.

Building Ecology – first principles for a sustainable built environment Peter Graham 2002. A text book type publication which builds the understanding behind the sustainable building movement. This is the book which will allow the understanding to make decisions on the run for a more sustainable outcome. 300pp $A 88.00 from the RMIT book shop http://www.rmitbookshop.com.au/

Books Listed below available from RAIA – http://www.raia.com.au

Aesthetics of Ecology: Art in Environmental Design: Theory and Practice Prigann H, Strelow H, David V.
Ecological & artistic approaches to designing our environment raise important questions which have to be faced by all designers of urban spaces, gardens or landscape: whether to conserve or to intervene, to rely on natural order or apply man-made means & whether to lend nature a romantic or a technocratic appearance. Which approaches to design & artistic concepts are able to unite these seemingly contradictory poles to create sophisticated projects in harmony with nature? In this publication landscape architects, artists, philosophers, social scientists & natural scientists provide answers to these central questions in landscape design and environmental art. Birkhauser Germany2004 HB255pp $A145.00

Architectural Design for Tropical Regions, Salmon.
Tropical regions present a unique design challenge to architects. In addition to effectively using energy and resources, architects must compensate for natural forces such as cyclones , intense humidity, rain and high temperatures while accommodating local heritage and tropical lifestyles. Salmon addresses all these issues, focusing on specific geographic areas, including Australia. J Wiley, USA, 1999. 221ppHB $A 121.00

Architecture, Engineering and the Environment Hawkes, Deasn & Forster, Wayne
Until recently, environmentally responsible architecture has been considered as clunky or somewhat not capable of the aesthetic standards a non-ecological structure is. This book proves that with technology, time and intelligence, we can achieve both beauty and functionality without compromising either. In association with International engineering company Arup, this book explains the importance of technology and engineering for a sustainable future with examples such as the Kanak Cultural Centre and the Tate Modern.
Laurence King Publishing, UK, 2002, 240pp HB $A 175.00

Architecture & Climate Change Szokolay, S.V.
RAIA, Australia, 1992 70pp PB $A10.95

Architecture and Technology the Best of Environmental Design
Winslow-Cotton, M. PBC, USA, 1995. 136pp HB $P/A

Architecture and the Environment Bioclimatic Building Design. Jones, David Lloyd
Forty-four recently completed buildings from around the world that exemplify the best in environmentally sensitive architecture are arranged under six categories; mansions, houses, campuses, pavilions, metropolis, and towers. Architects whose work is featured include Ando, Cullinan, Herzog, Isozaki and Burgess
LKing, UK., 1998. 256pp HB $A P/A

Architecture & Identity responses to cultural & technological change. Abel, C. Revised second edition.
Butterworth, UK, 2000. 270pp PB $A 103.75

Architecture in a Climate of Change - A Guide to Sustainable Design. Smith, Peter F.
A call to action, this book explains the why's and wherefores of sustainable architecture through current buildings, theories and technologies. It's primary focus is to promote a creative partnership between the building professions to produce buildings which achieve optimum conditions for their inhabitants whilst making minimum demands on fossil based energy. Covers every facet of building design and materials, and explains the current environmental situation and predicts its future. Architectural Press, UK, 2001. PB 214pp $A 61.00

The Art of Natural Building: Design, Construction, Resources. Kennedy . J, Smith . M , Wanek . C ed
The search for housing that is healthy, affordable and environmentally responsible architecture is the concern of this book. Well illustrated, the book first discusses the context of natural building in terms of economics, social justice and sustainability. Design and planning issues are reviewed, followed by a comprehensive treatment of natural building materials and techniques. New Society, Canada, 2002, 287 pp $ A 65.00

Audubon House Building the Environmentally Responsible, Energy-Efficient Office Croxton Collaborative Architects, John Wiley & Sons
USA, 1994. 207pp HB $P/A

Beauty of Straw Bale Homes Steen, A & B
The authors of The Straw Bale House, "a book widely credited with popularizing and legitimizing straw bale construction, celebrate in gorgeous colour photography the accomplishments of straw bale artisans". Chelsea Green, USA, 2000. PB 113pp $A 58.00

Bruno Stagno An Architect in the Tropics Yeang, K/Tzonis, A/Lefaivre, L
Beautifully detailed and including almost all of his recent projects, This is a great monograph on the Costa Rican Architect and a great sourcebook for bioclimatic design processes and technology for tropical regions.
Asia Design Forum Publications, 1999, Malaysia, 188pp, PB $A 64.90

The Boiled Frog Syndrome – Your Health and the Built Environment Saunders, T.
A rare insight into the built environment from the physical, human perspective. Not really an architecture book, but incredibly important to the practise and execution of architecture. The book explores the cause and effect process betweens humans and the urban condition. It is based on the notion of a frog continually changing its body temperature in warming water until it is boiled alive. Wiley-Academy, Sussex, 2002, 261pp PB $A 59.95

Build it with Bales A Step-by-Step Guide to Straw-Bale Construction 2nd Ed. Mhyrman M, MacDonald S.O
As the title suggests, this book is your one-stop guide to designing and constructing Straw Bale houses. Written in an easy to read style, with a focus on construction detailing and drawings, this book is the ideal manual for those interested in self-building their very own Straw-Bale Shang-ri-la.
Chelsea Green, USA, 1997. PB 143pp $A 72.00

Building with Adobe Southwick, M, Swallow Press, USA
1994. 185pp PB $A 32.95

Building Materials, Energy & the Environment:
Towards Ecologically Sustainable Development . Lawson, B.
Summarises building materials then presents eleven Australian case studies ranging from individual houses to large scale resorts. RAIA, Aust, 1996. 135pp PB $A 43.95

Buildings of Earth and Straw Structural Design for Rammed Earth and Straw Bale Architecture
King, B. Ecological Design Press, USA,1996.169pp PB $A 53.90

Building the Timber Frame House: The revival of a forgotten craft. Benson T, Gruber J
This book is the most comprehensive manual available on Timber Framing techniques. In it you will find a short history of timber framing and a fully illustrated discussion of the different kinds of joinery, assembly of timbers and raising of the frame. There are also detailed sections on present-day design and materials, house plans, site development, foundation laying, insulation, tools, and methods. A very useful and easy to follow book.
Simon & Schuster, USA, 1995. PB 210pp $A 58.00

Built by Hand - Vernacular buildings around the world - Steen, B
A gorgeously illustrated picture book of the world's vernacular architectures, accompanied by superb introductory essays describing local resources, traditions, and lifestyles and how they shape the structures in which people live. A brief description, with the location, is given for each photograph. Gibbs Smith 2004 477pp HB $A 75.00

Cepheus: Living Comfort Without Heating - Krapmeier Drossler
Cepheus (cost effective passive houses as european standards) have brought to the public platform the proof that passive housing can be comfortable, unlimited and beautiful whilst also being being cost effective and a great solution to community housing projects. Too good to be true? Just have a look at the nine Austrian projects detailed here in photographs, drawings, charts, data and specifications. About time we say, thankyou Cepheus.
Springer, Wien, 2001, 160pp HB $A 87.50

Ceramic House & Earth Architecture: How to Build Your Own Khalili, N.
Cal-Earth USA 1990, 233pp $A60.00

Climate Considerations in Building and Urban Design
Givoni, B. VNR, U.S.A, 1998. 463pp HB $A 132.00

Climate Responsive Design: A study of buildings in moderate and hot humid climates. Hyde, R
This new book examines energy efficient and sustainable building models, with emphasis on climate responsive architecture. With South East Asian and Australian case studies, this book provides an excellent resource for those interested in climate responsive design in Australasia and Asia, and includes a wide range of passive and active environmental control systems. E & FN Spon, UK, 2000 244pp $A 91.30

Consensus Design - Socially Inclusive Process Christopher Day
A practical step towards better design for a better future.
Architectural Press, UK, 2002, 222pp PB $A 72.05

Consuming Cities: The Urban Environment in the Global Economy after the Rio Declaration. Low, N, Gleeson, B, Ingemar, E, Lidskog, R (Ed's)
This book is about cities as engines of consumption of the worlds environment and the spread of policies designed to reduce their impact. It looks at these issues by examining the impact of the Rio Declaration on national urban policy and assesses the extent to which it has made a difference.
Routledge, USA, 2000. 315pp PB $A P/A

Cradle to Cradle McDonough, William & Braungart, Michael
"Reduce, reuse, recycle," urge environmentalists; in other words, do ore with less in order to minimize damage. But as this book points out in its provocative, visionary book, such an approach only perpetuates the one-way, "cradle to grave" manufacturing model, dating to the industrial Revolution, that creates a fantastic amounts of waste and pollution in the first place. Drawing on their experience in (re)designing everything from carpeting to corporate campuses, McDonough and Braungart make an exciting and viable case for putting eco-effectiveness into practice, and show how anyone involved with making anything can begin to do so as well North Point Press, USA, 2002. 193pp PB $A 58.00

Design for the Real World: Human Ecology & Social Change. Papanek, V.
Thames, UK 1984. 394pp PB $A 36.25

Dimensions of Sustainability Climate, Computation, Concept, Culture, Democracy, Development, Ecology, Engineering, Energy, Form, Innovation, Performance, Technology Scott. A (ed.)
Spon, UK, 1998. 147pp PB $A 93.50

ECO - An essential sourcebook for environmentally friendly design. Elizabeth Wilhide
Threats to the environment are constantly in the news but daunted by the scale of the problem, we often feel powerless. Eco shows that we can make a difference by designing or adapting the homes we live in along more eco-friendly lines. While environmentally friendly architecture was once seen as a minority interest, it is now viewed simply as best practice. Eco proves that it can be beautiful too. It is the book both for those who want to build a home that respects the environment and for people who wish to make changes to the home they already have. Focusing on design, finish, decoration and even housekeeping, Eco promises you lower fuel bills, fewer allergy-related illnesses, less waste and a healthy world for your children to inherit.
Quadrille, UK, 2002. HB 182pp $A 59.95

Ecocities - Building Cities In Balance With Nature - Register, Richard
This visionary book by the leader of the ecocity movement outlines a plan for developing existing cities in a way that lessens their destructive impact on the environment and increases their support of healthy social interaction. Ecocities is both a philosophical discussion and a call to arms by an activist who has worked for decades to restore and transform blighted urban areas. Berkley Hills Books USA 2002 290pp PB $A 31.00

Ecologic: creating a sustainable future McEwen S.
A world-wide push for ecological sustainability is fuelling the next great industrial revolution. What are the major issues for Australia? What are government & industry doing? The answers can be found in this book. Through numerous case studies, Ecologic looks at urban planning issues, the true cost of industry, salinity & soil degradation, water management & environmental activism. It shows how innovative design at every level of domestic, industrial & agricultural life can be help us meet our needs while conserving fragile resources. An essential resource for all those who want to know why action is needed & what can be done. Powerhouse Pub Aust 2004 PB105pp $A35.95

Ecohouse1: A Design Guide. Roaf, Sue with Fuentes, Manuel and Thomas, Stephanie
This is an exciting and timely text that shows how to design low-energy, environmentally friendly buildings today. It also provides the foundations for building design in a warming world, and stepping stones towards the zero-carbon emission buildings of tomorrow.
Architectural Press, UK 2001, 346pp, PB $A 87.90

Ecohouse2: A design guide Roaf S.
Architectural Press Italy 2003(second Edition)413pp PB $A85.25

Ecological Design Handbook
Sustainable Strategies for Architecture, Landscape Architecture, Interior Design and Planning. Stitt, F.
The first comprehensive reference to the many aspects of ecological design. It ranges from alternative energy sources to construction technologies, from permaculture to urban design, includes both "hardware"(photovoltaics, etc) and "software"(design aesthetics), and shows us how, in the broad scope of ecological design, all can be incorporated into the built environment. McGraw, USA, 1999 544pp, HB $A 149.95

Ecological Design and Planning. George F. Thompson, Frederick R. Steiner Ed's.
The essays contained in this book are written by a cross section of the most respected teachers and practitioners of landscape design from around the globe. Ecological Design and Planning offers a unique opportunity to learn about the latest thinking and practices in the art and science of ecological landscape design from such leading lights as Michael Laurie, Carol Franklin, Laurie Olin, Elizabeth Meyer, Mark Johnson, and Ian McHarg. The common thread that runs through these essays is the authors' conviction that the growing rift in landscape design—ecology vs. aesthetics—is an artificial one. Each author expresses abiding concern for the ecological preservation and enhancement of the site, while demonstrating clearly—with both words and pictures—that the best designs are those that harmonize aesthetic form and ecological function. Ecological Design and Planning is a source of ideas and inspiration for landscape architects and planners, architects, and all those who understand the importance of designing with nature. John Wiley, USA, 1997. HB 346pp $A 121.95

Eco-Tec: Architecture of the In-Between. Marras, A editor
Eco-Tec proposes a fusion between ecology and technology that goes against accepted theories of sustainibility and suggests a new role for architecture. It serves to reassess our colletive ecological and technological illiteracy by placing a priority on learning from as well as for nature. Includes essays by Felix Guattari, Neil Denari, Mark Wigley and many other internationally respected writers and theorists. PAP, USA, 1999. 142pp PB $A 36.50
Eco-Tech Sustainable Architecture and High Technology
Slessor,C. T & H, UK, 1997. 190pp HB $A 99.00

The Ecology of Architecture A Complete Guide to Creating the Environmentally Conscious Building. Zeiher, L. Whitney Library USA, 1996. 269pp HB $A 93.50

EcoUrbanism Sustainable Human Settlements: 60 Case Studies. Ruano, M
Ecourbanism defines the development of multidimensional sustainable human communities within harmonious and balanced built environments. It is rapidly becoming a key concept, and one essential to all urban planning that has world's social and environmental problems, at the dawn of the 21st century, as its main concern.
GG, Spain, 1999. 192pp PB $A 95.00

Energy-Efficient Design and Construction for CommercialBuildings
Tuluca, A. McGraw-Hill, USA, 1997. 255pp HB $P/A

Energy Efficient Operation of Commercial Buildings Redefining the Energy Manager's Job. Herzog, P, McGraw Hill, USA, 1997. 197pp HB $A 121.00

Environment Comes Home Arizona Public Service's Environmental
Showcase Home. Pijawaka, D & Shetter, K. UAP, USA, 1995140PP PB $A P/A

Environmental Design An introduction for Architects and Engineers.
Thomas. R, Spon, UK, 1997. 224pp PB $A 80.30

Fire and Memory: On Architecture and Energy. Fernandez-Galiano L
This latest book in the Writing Architecture series "reconstructs the historical, theoretical, and contemporary relationship between architecture and energy...". From the mythical origins of fire & architecture, and the work of Vitruvius through to Le Corbusier, Fernandez-Galiano reintroduces the importance of energy in buildings. Borrowing from the disciplines of anthropology, economics, ecology and thermodynamics, Fernandez-Galiano sets forth a comprehensive body of knowledge which will inform designers theoretically and pragmatically. An excellent and timely resource. MIT, USA, 2000. PB 320pp $A 61.50

Forest Friendly Building Timbers learn how to use plantation-grown or recycled timbers instead of native forest timbers when next you build. Gray, A Earth Garden Magazine, Melbourne, 1999. 79pp PB $A 10.95

Green Architecture. Wines, J
This new book analyses the discussions and concepts of ecological architecture, paying particular attention to technological, ethical and aesthetic concerns in reconciling the works of man and nature. The works of 38 contemporary architects are identified and examined within their particular technological, historical and geographic contexts. Architects include Emilio Ambasz, Jean Nouvel, Renzo Piano, Antoine Preddock and Charles Jencks. An excellent reference on the state and future of international green architecture.
Taschen, Germany, 2000. 240pp PB $A 60.00

Green Architecture Design for a Sustainable Future.
Vale, B & R. T & H, UK, 1996. 192pp PB $A P/A

Green Building Handbook Vol 1 A guide to building products and their impact on the environment.
Woolley, T. & Kimmins, S.
This practical handbook considers the environmental issues which relate to the production, use and disposal of key building products and materials from floor to roof. It is designed to help specifiers and purchasers gain awareness of the potential impact of their decisions. Spon, UK, 1997. 216pp, PB $A 103.40

Green Building Handbook Vol 2 A guide to building products and their impact on the environment.
Woolley, T. Kimmins, S. Harrison, P. & Harrison, R.
This new handbook provides a detailed reference for environmentaly concerned purchasers of building products, complementing vol 1. With an overview and introduction discussing current issues in green building Woolley then considers 8 building component types( Interior design, adhesives, electical wiring,glazing, flat roofing, ventilation, fencing and straw bale building) not covered in vol 1. Spon, UK, 2000. 178pp, PB $A 103.40

Green Building Materials - A Guide to Product Selection and Specification.
Spiegel, Ross & Meadows, Dru
An excellent hands-on guide to designing environmentally friendly buildings. It includes what where and how of Green building materials, guidelines on how to evaluate a project, chapters on legislation and history of green design plus an appendix. A resource book, no pictures, just tables and numbers. Long overdue, it can be added to any collection of any environmentally responible architecture publications.
J Wiley, New York 2002, 321pp, HB $A 156.95

Green Buildings Pay. Edwards, B (ed)
Through case studies of commercial and university buildings, Green Building Pay examines how different approaches to green design can produce more sustainable patterns of development. The 8 case studies are described by their designers and often also by the client thereby ensuring that the building are seen in the context of market realities. E & FN Spon, UK, 1998. 134pp PB $A 122.00

Green Design Design for the Environment.
Mackenzie, D. Lawrence King, UK, 1997. HB 176pp $A 60.50

Green Guide to Specification. 3rd Edition Anderson/Shiers/Sinclair
Blackwell Science, UK, 2002, 98pp, HB $A 139.70

Green Imperative: Ecology & Ethics in Design & Architecture. Papanek, V.
Thames, UK, 1995. 256pp PB $A 49.50

Green Shift Towards a Green Sensibility in Architecture. 2nd Ed
Farmer, J WWF, Butterworth - Heinemann Press, UK, 1997 203pp PB $A 93.50

Green Skyscraper Basis for Designing Sustainable Intensive Buildings. Yeang, K.
A general framework for looking at ecological design and how this might be applied to the design of the contemporary large building with examples from Yeang's experiments, projects and research.
Prestel, Germany, 1999. 304pp PB $80.00

Groundscrapers and Subscrapers of Hamzah & Yeang, Ivor Richards
Funky Graphics, realistic computer generated models and beautiful photographs guide the reader through the innovative and ingenious mind of Malaysian-born architect Ken Yeang. Illustrating such projects as the Malaysian Design Technology Centre, the book details an approach to architecture involving low to medium rise, ecologically responsible structures which challenge the fultility and non-specificity of many existing urban architectural forms. Introducing new concepts and attitudes towards an integration of landscape, architecture and ecology, this book is invaluable for any architect, town planner and urban designer who is striving towards a new and responsible method of practise. Jacaranda Wiley, UK, 2001, 260p PB $A 103.95

Ecology of the Sky. T.R Hamzah & Yeang; Ivor Richards
Ecology of the Sky is a critique of the key skyscrapers designed by T.RHamzah and Ken Yeang in the context of their ecological design agenda.Hamzah and Yeang, who are widely respected as innovators of the ecological
and bioclimatic skyscraper type, operate as a research design and development practice, generating knowledge through rapid prototyping and experimentation. This book focuses on their body of work which deals with
ideas on vertical landscaping, vertical urban design and mimetic ecosystems. Over 26 works projects are comprehensively detailed with models, sketches, conceptual drawings, diagrams, line drawings, photos, 3d models, site info, technical data and written descriptions providing the design professional with incredible information on Hamzah & Yeang's work. Images, Aust, 2002. 247pp HB $ 99.95

Healthy House Creating a safe, healthy and environmentally friendly home. Baggs, S. & J
Most of us live in houses full of plastic, treated timber,toxic paint and electrical equipment, causing indoor pollution up to 20 times more toxic than that outdoors.By following the guiding principles of the Healthy House you can contribute to our shared future by creating a home harming neither you nor the planet.
Harper, Aust, 1996. 256pp PB $A O/P

HOK Guidebook to SustainableArchitecture. Mendler, Sandra F. Odell, William
In this comprehensive guide, the world's largest architectural/engineering design firm helps architects, engineers, planners, interior designers and landscape architects integrate sustainable design strategies into their work. Featuring twenty four case studies of a variety of international HOK projects, it shows how sustainable design thinking can improve projects within the conventional consraints of budget, schedule and market demand. It provides practical guidelines that enhance real projects. John Wiley & Sons, USA, 2000, 412pp HB $A 146.95
House of Straw: a Natural Building Odyssey Roberts, C.This is a memoir of the building of a house, of the single mother with two teenage sons, little money and few practical skills who built herself a this "house of straw" in Arizona. A personal story to inspire other. Chelsea, USA, 2002 238pp $A45.00

HOMEWORK: Handbuilt Shelter Kahn L.
Building on the enormous success of the original publication Shelter, Lloyd Kahn continues his odyssey of finding a& exploring the most magnificent & unusual hand-built houses in existence. Among the intriguing domiciles described here are a Japanese-style stilt house accessible only by a cable across a river; a stone house in a South African valley whose roof serves as a baboon trampoline; multi-level tree-houses on the South China Sea; & a bottle house in the Nevada desert. Over 1,500 photos illustrate various innovative architectural styles & natural building materials that have gained popularity in the last two decades such as cob, papercrete, bamboo, adobe, strawbale, timber framing, & earthbags. It is a must for anyone one fascinated with alternative building techniques. Shelter USA 2004 PB 244pp $A55.00

Houses in Motion: 2nd Edition
the genesis, history and development of the portable building
Kronenburg, R. Wiley, UK 2002 168pp PB $A59.95

Ideas for the New Millenium. 2nd Edition Ellyard, Peter
A new culture is emerging that Ellyard calls "planetism" In urging the creation of an ecologically, socially and culturally sustainable society in the 21st century,he offes a challenging vision for our own future and that of generations to come.
MUP, Aust., 2001 256pp PB $A27.45

Integrated Environmental Planning. Lein, James K.
Blackwell Publishing, UK, 2003, 228pp, PB $A 101.20

Low-Cost Pole Building Construction: The complete how-to book. Wolfe R, Merriless D, Loveday E
As the title suggests, this book is for those builders, self-builders and architects looking for a practical, no non-sense guide to constructing a Pole building. With many examples of buildings, details, drawings, photographs, tables, guides, plans and more. A great book, and an excllent guide and introduction to the genre. Storey Books, USA, 1980. PB 183pp $A 43.60

Low Tech Houses - Sustainable Architecture. Mostaedi
From around the world, architects and clients alike are realising the urgency of designing houses for a sustainable future yet also still strive to achieve visually uncompromising forms. This publication offers solutions to have the best of both worlds which have been built, appreciated and operated successfully from every angle. Including technical drawings and specifications, it offers techniques such as adobe, reused timber and building with earth whilst showing examples of implementing the use of sun wind and light into design as both a visual element and natural heating/lighting/ventilation. It includes the work of Australian Greg Burgess as well as the likes of Shigeru Ban.
Links, Spain, 2003, 178pp HB $A 99.95

Matter and Mind in Architecture. Alvar Aalro Foundation
Published to coincide with the 7th Alvar Aalto Symposium, the themes of this book focuses on the climate of architecture regarding environmental problems, population overgrowth, unemployment, decreasing resources and so on. It takes projects which suggest that these problems can be somewhat relieved by architecture, not that architecture can solve these problems but through processes, architects are no longer bystanders. Includes work from Kazuyo Sejima and Wilfried Wang as well as a CD from Kaija Saariaho.
Rakennustieto, Finland, 2000, HB $A 115.00

Natural Energy and Vernacular Architecture.
Principles and Examples with Reference to Hot Arid Climates. Fathy, H
Chicago UP, U.S.A, 1986. 172pp HB $A 64.90

New Autonomous House. Vale, B & R
In 1975, the Vales groundbreaking "The Autonomous House" was published and was regarded as a manifesto for the building of homes that do not pollute the earth or squander its resources. "The New Autonomous House" records the building of a house in the British Midlands, based on these principles The intention was to provide a thought -provoking, practical solution that is inexpensive to build & maintain.The book includes 37 drawings, charts, and detailed information, with a concluding chapter summarising the effectiveness of the individual component, after five years of occupation. The authors who now live and work in New Zealand, have just completed a very successful lecture tour of Australia Thames & Hudson, UK, 2000. 256pp HB $A 67.00

New Natural House. Pearson, D.
Pearson has completely revised and updated his work first published in the Natural House Book in 1989 to present the healthy house for the 1990s and beyond. The index of resources are all Australian or New Zealand sources.
Harper Collins, Australia, 1998. 304 pp PB $AO/P

New Organic Architecture; The Breaking Waves. Pearson, David
This book describes a way of building that is both aesthetically pleasing and kinder to the environment. It presents eight key themes drawn from the work of organic architects, with an emphasis on the inspiration, the roots and concepts behind the style, and the geometric and the environmental challenges architects have to overcome. Includes work by Australian Gregory Burgess (Brambuk Living Cultural Centre in the Grampians) as well as many other internationally renowned architects.
GAIA Books, UK, 2001, 223pp, PB $A 59.95

A New Theory of Urban Design. Alexander, Christopher
Sixth in Alexander's Center for Environmental Structure Series.
Oxford University Press, USA, 1987, 249pp. $A 90.20

Notes on the Synthesis of Form. Alexander, Christopher
One of his earliest works, this theory text is about design methodology and the human responsibility of the designed environment. Harvard College, USA, 1964, 216pp. $A 38.50

The Passive Solar House. James Kachadorian
This book offers a technique for building homes that heat and cool themselves in a wide range of different climates, using ordinary building materials available anywhere and with methods familiar to all building contractors and many do-it-yourselfers. . This is a building book for the next century. Applicable to a diversity of regions, climates, budgets, and styles of architecture, Kachadorian's techniques translate the essentials of timeless solar design (siting a home in harmony with nature, using windows as solar collectors, achieving year-round comfort by balancing good insulation with healthy supplies of fresh air) into practical wisdom for today's new generation of solar builders. Chelsea Green, USA, 1997. PB 202pp $A 59.95

Pattern Language. Alexander, C
There exists basic patterns of interaction between people, buildings, roads, and the environment The second and most popular volume of Alexander's books that influenced a generation, published by the Center for Environmental Structure at Berkeley University in California. OUP, USA, 1977 1216pp HB $A 140.00
Practical Pole Building Construction with Plans for Barns, Cabins and Outbuildings Seddon. L, Williamson, USA, 1985. 183pp PB $A33.95

The Production of Houses. Alexander, Christopher
Fifth in Alexander's Center for Environmental Structure Series.
Oxford University Press, USA, 1985, 383pp. $AP/A
Pole Building Projects Over 25 Low-Cost Plans Burch, M
Garden Way, USA, 1993. 200pp PB $A P/A

Quarterly Essay # 9. Beautiful Lies: population and environment in Australia. Flannery,Tim ed
Tim Flannery launches an attack on the various lies that we tell ourselves about our resources, our past and our future. From the lie of terra nullius that made us ignore the aborigines knowledge of the environment to the Snowy mountains Scheme that damaged our river system for the sake of white immigration, and the myths surrounding multiculturalism. The book concludes with questions of the ways in which we can discharge our responsibility to the refugees who are victims of American policies we collude with. Presenting wide set range of political, intellectual and cultural opinion Black Inc, Aus, 2003.119pp $A 11.95.

Rammed Earth - Martin Rauch. Kapfinger, Otto Ed.
Martin Rauch is a leading architect specializing in rammed earth buildings. Combining ancient technologies, basic materials and new technology and methods, Rauch's work has qualified him as a expert of international stature. This book is for anybody interested in sustainable earth buildings, those interested in technological hybrids, or for the architect interested in a body of work that demonstrates the capabilities and benefits of rammed earth buildings. Rauch's work is sensual, simple and elegant. Birkhauser, Swiss, 2001. HB 159pp $A 130.00

Rammed Earth House. Easton, D
By rediscovering the most ancient ofall building materials - earth - forward -thinking home builders can create structures that set new standards for beauty, durability, and efficient use of natural resources
Chelsea Green , USA, 1996. 272pp PB $AP/A

Reclaiming the American West. Berger, Alan
There are over 200,000 abandoned mines covering hundreds of thousands of acres in the western United States. Seen from the air, they create surreal, haunting, yet somehow beautiful landscapes of mind-boggling scale. But these scarred landscapes are only temporary: by law, mining companies are required to reclaim them, and the process of renewal exposes many physical, philosophical, technological, environmental, political, regulatory, and ethical issues. Using aerial photography, maps, designs, and charts, Berger provides a colourful and insightful overview of the possibilities and dangers of converting these altered landscapes. Reclaiming the American West covers the historical background and policy, as well as representational, technical, and design challenges presented by working with these enormous toxic sites, many of which have been converted into landscapes of extraordinary beauty. In addition, the book gives us an unprecedented vantage point above the sublime landscapes.
PAP, USA, 2002. HB 202pp $A 110.00

Reinventing the Skyscraper. Yeang, Ken
While he's busy saving the world from self-destruction and teaching and leading new design methodologies, it's a wonder how Ken Yeang ever gets time to write his books. Always pushing the envelope and reinventing conventional building and construction, he is one of the few architect's who practise what they preach and is making a big difference not only to architecture, but within the global community also. Focussed on building ecologically and socially responsible vertical structures, Yeang explores the notion of inhabiting the sky and documents in technical detail how we might construct novel designs such as streets in the sky or mobile high rise towers. Managing to avoid speculative and ridiculous ideas, the book has a sense of pragmatism and realistic intents - both the work of Ken Yeang and this book (one of many) are a great inspiration and prove that anything is possible. This book is the sequel to the popular "Skyscraper, Bioclimatically Considered".
Wiley-Academy, UK, 2002 223pp PB $A 103.95

Serious Straw Bale - A Home Construction Guide for All Climates. Lacinski P, Bergeron M
This book is the one-stop resource for those interested in all aspects of designing and building Straw Bale Houses. This book also offers advice on common problems and prevention against damage by humidity and temperature changes on straw bale construction. Also includes techniques, examples, drawings, details and photographs and much more information besides. Although it is a American book, there is ample information to translate into Australian climates. Chelsea Green, USA, 2000. PB 372pp $A 72.00

Simply Build Green, a Technical Guide to the Ecological Houses at the Findhorn Foundation Talbott. J, Findhorn, Australia, 1995. 220pp PB $A 32.95

Shelter Various
Not a new book, but since being published in 1973, this book has occupied the hearts and minds of those self-builders, D.I.Yer's and (dare we say it) Beatniks and Hippies interested in the infinite variety of vernacular and cultural habitations. Everything from Teepees, Yurts, Dome Structures, Earth Buildings, Tents and Adobe to construction techniques, cheap technologies and methods, as well as the interesting Self-builders and characters met along the way (including a self professed walker of the Earth of some 10 years). An essential guide for those interested in self reliance, the buildings of the Tuareg or Dogon people, East European Dwellings, or simply to see how the alternative lifestyle movement began in '73. Shelter Publications, USA, 1973. PB 176pp $A 55.00

Small Adobe House. Reeve, Agnesa
Gibbs, USA, 2001 HB 96pp $A45.00

Snack: Place Self Navigation and Creative Knowledge: Passive and Low-energy Architecture, Climate and Education a CD-Rom Kit. Woolley, J.
Snack: Place is an animated, graphic, hyperlinked package which is specifically intended to teach building design professionals in a way which suits their learning mode. The tool builds on one's own urgent questions on environmental and climatic design issues. Its structure provides that each user may navigate a different path. Every item has a visual explanation showing its implications on the form and fabric of buildings.
Australia, 2000, CD Microsoft Windows 3.1 or 95/NT $A 44.00

Solar Architecture in Europe Design, Performance and Evaluation.
Prism Press, Germany, 1991. 30 Chapters PB $A P/A

Straw Bale House. Steen, A, Steen, D & Bainbridge
Theory and practice of building a house of straw is fully explained in this very popular book on a increasingly popular method of building. Chelsea Green, USA, 1994. 297pp PB $A72.00

Sustainable Architecture in Japan: The Green Buildings of Nikken Sekkei. Ray-Jones, Anna Ed
In the year 2000, Japanese architectural firm Nikken Sekkei celebrates 100 years of practice throughout the world, and some 14,000 projects. As a large practice focusing on sustainable architecture and research, their work provides valuable information on a variety of built works throughout the world, and research material. Some research topics included are: Design with Natural Potentials; Techniques for the Thermal Analysis of Buildings; Simulation of Air Conditioning Systems and others. Wiley-Academy, UK, 2000. 190pp HB $A 100.95

Sustainable Ecosystems & the Built Environment. Battle G, McCarthy C
This book is written by the co-founders of Battle McCarthy, an international multi-disciplinary engineering/design practice with a reputation for designing cost-effective, eco-friendly buildings. As such, this book is a practical, professional-practice guide to designing sustainable buildings, and uncovering a wide range of topics that deal with how buildings relate to their micro and macro-environment, methods to make buildings healthier, heating, lighting, colour and odour. A great and necessary book, illustrated with real-world examples and free of dry academia.
John Wiley, UK, 2001. PB 128pp $A 61.95

Sustainable House. Mobbs, M.
What started as a standard renovation of an inner-city terraced house ended with a revolutionary adaption that made it totally "sustainable". Electricity, water, sewerage, all independent of the national grid. A book to inspire others, with practical information on working with local authorities and tradesmen to achieve the sustainable house.
Choice, Aust. 1998. 187pp PB $A 38.50

Sustainable Practices and the Built Environment .(2nd Edition) Langston & Ding
Butterworth Heinemann, UK 2001, 288pp, PB $A 105.45

Sustainable Practices ESD and the Construction Industry
24 refereed papers Langston,C (ed). Envirobook, Australia 1997. 243pp PP $A 27.45
Technology of Ecological Building Basic Principles Examples and Ideas Daniels, K.
Everybody wants to build ecologically, but many fail to view ecological issues in architecture as a challenge, regarding them instead as limitations to freedom in design. This dilemma often leads to half-hearted solutions
Birk, Switz, 1994 302pp HB $A O/P 2002

The New Eco-Architecture Alternatives from the Modern Movement. Porteus, Colin
Spon Press, London, 2002, 212pp, PB $A 79.20

Thermal Design of Buildings. 2nd Edition Szokolay, S.V.
RAIA, Australia, 1995 78pp, PB $A16.50

Timber in Context a Guide to Sustainable Use. Willis, A &Tonkin, C
Timber in Context sets out to demystify the debate about the harvesting of timber and its use for construction. It reviews the use of timber in relation to forest ecology, the political and economic context, environmental impact , and the key design, technical and construction factors. While considered on a global context, the focus is on the timber and products most commonly used in Australia.
Natspec, Aust. 1998 170pp PB $A 49.50

Timeless Way of Building. Alexander, C
Lays the foundation for the series that changed the way in which we think about architecture and planning. OUP, USA, 1979 552pp HB $A P/A

Tree Houses: The House That Jack Built series. Pearson, D.
Gaia, UK, 2001 95pp HB $A24.95

Trespassers: Inspirations for Eco-Efficient Design. van Hinte, E & Bakker, C
This lavishly illustrated volume is a compilation of inspiring projects and ideas based upon eco-efficient designs relating to city planning and housing, transport, commodities and food. Designs for an inflatable building, and using road asphalt for solar energy accumulation are just 2 examples. Attempts to challenge and infringe upon the paradigms behind sustainable correctness, hence the title. Netherlands Design Inst, 010 Publishers

Tropical Architecture - Critical Regionalism in the Age of Globalization. Tzonis A, Lefaivre L, Stagno B, Eds.
An important book looking at architecture of tropical areas. Not a picture book, this is a study of the current state of tropical architecture, and focusses on its characteristics - especially sustainability, bio- and cultural diversity, micro-climatic control, technology, and multi-disciplinary design. With a focus on critical regionalism and associated theory, this book examines the multiple approaches to tropical architecture from throughout the world.
John Wiley, UK, 2001. PB 311pp $A 76.95

Valley Of Mud Brick Architecture Ancient to Contemporary Design. Shibam, Tarim and Wadi Hadramut Damlugi, S. Garnet Editions, UK, 1997. 472pp HB $A P/A

Warm House, Cool House Inspirational designs for low-energy housing. Hollo, R.
110 examples from around Australia of how you can save energy and money by applying the principles of low energy housing design. Choice, Aust. 1995. 171pp PB $A 30.00

Wind Towers. Battle McCarthy Consulting Engineers Detail in Building Series. Wind Towers is the sixth in the series, and continues the discussion in the utilisation of natural conditions for heating, cooling and ventilation of buildings. This book looks at techniques using natural forces to control temperature and ventilation by means of wind driven devices such as wind towers and wind scoops. Academy Editions, UK, 1999. 95pp PB $A 59.10

Yurts, Tipis and Benders. Pearson, D.
Many of us yearn to roam with the seasons and be close to nature like our nomadic ancestors.Yurts, tipis and benders are the apogee of this experience.Pearson looks at contemporary examples of these historic forms of building and includes instruction for the basic form of each. Second book in the "House That Jack Built" series.
Gaia, UK, 2001 95pp HB $A24.95

Other books

Mind and Nature - A necessary unity - Bateson, G. (1979). E.P. Dutton New York. USA.

Vital Signs - Trends that are shaping our world - Brown, L. Lenssen, N. Kane, H. eds. (1996).' World Watch Institute. Earthscan Publishing. U.K.

Managing Sustainable Development - Carley, M. & Christie, I. (1993). University of Minnesota Press. USA.

Environmental Management in Construction - Grifith, Allan (1994)..' The Macmillan Press Ltd. London U.K.

The Singapore Green Plan - Ministry of Environment (1992). SNP Publishers, Singapore.

Architecture & Climate Change - Szokolay, S.V. (1992).. RAIA Education Division, ACT.

Green Architecture - Design for a sustainable future. - Vale, B & R (1991). Thames & Hudson, London.

Our Common Future - World Commission on Environment and Development (1987). Oxford University Press. U.K.

Designing with Nature - Yeang, K. (1995) Cambridge University Press