technical architectural terms and names

[nelpiper]

Hi guys. I'm in the UK and I work for a visualization company, although I'm not an architect. So, I'm struggling a bit with the architectural terms like "fascia" and so on. Does anyone know if there's any magazine or journal I can read that goves those terms?

Thank you.

[mattclinch]

i recommend 'A Visual Dictionary of Architecture' by Francis D. K. Ching.

[Jim Mann]

"The Penguin Dictionary of Architecture" for UK stuff. I don't have the Ching book but from experience of his other work you will probably find some of the terms apply to the US but not the UK. I have done work with US architects and sometimes some of the terms don't match. Horizontal Mullions v's Transomes and Guardrail v's Balustrade spring to mind. At the end of the day, its not really critical but it gives you a bit more confidence if you know what things are called and you can understand what other people are referring to.

 

Jim

[leoA4D]

Google "construction glossary UK" and you will find definitions for most commonly used architectural terms.

 

Leonard

Edited January 2, 2009 by leoA4D

[Frosty]

I second anything by Ching. Its the bible in Arch school.

 

If it exists, a Canadian version will serve you well. We use both American and British terms.

 

Although much more expensive, Architectural Graphic Standards may also be of use. Look for an old copy. I got a 1960's issue from a library sale for $1.

[leoA4D]

Two other excellent (U.S.) oldies but worth owning: "Dictionary of Architecture and Construction" and "Historic Architecture Sourcebook", both edited by Cyril M. Harris. Sourcebook has many elaborate illustrations similar to those contained in Sir Banister Fletcher's, "A History of Architecture on the Comparative Method" but is a dictionary despite the title.

 

Leonard

[nelpiper]

Thanks guys. I'll certainly will look into all those.

Thanks again.