What Adults Don't Know About Architecture

Children are rarely introduced properly to architecture, but there are in fact few subjects more important - because the quality of the architecture that surrounds us has such an impact on our mood and sense of well-being.

The bitter truth is that in modern times, we've built a world that's far too often ugly or uncharming - and we've done so because only a very few people ever feel they have the right to comment on what gets built around them. This is a chance for the next generation to develop the tools to talk about architecture with confidence, knowledge and passion. It tells us about what a satisfying building is, what makes a street enticing (or not), why some cities are charming and others repel us - and how we might build going forward in a way that will reliably delight and uplift us.

This engaging and beautifully illustrated guide is designed to help children (and their favourite adults) to understand how buildings work and how we might create the better looking world we all crave and deserve.

“"These two books will help to give children a sense of what the point of architecture and art really are--in a way that will imbue them with a genuine lifelong interest in the subjects" -- Alain de Botton”

"These two books will help to give children a sense of what the point of architecture and art really are--in a way that will imbue them with a genuine lifelong interest in the subjects" -Alain de Botton

"This innovative guide teaches the basic principles of architecture in a relatable style associating concepts with everyday things, like a favorite sports team or creating a recipe. With photography and artwork throughout referencing a wide range of styles from all over the world ... this is a clever start to a series that will encourage eager minds to look more deeply." - Claire Atherfold, Readings State Library

"Very highly recommended, "What Adults Don't Know About Architecture" is engaging and informative guide is designed to help children ages 9-15 (and their favorite adults!) to understand how buildings work and how we might create the better looking world we all crave and deserve." - Midwest Book Review

What readers are saying:

"A good read for anyone with an interest in architecture or studying architecture, and even new students that want a lighter read than that of a textbook." - Goodreads review

"The School of Life is always thought provoking and creates a new perspective for me. While I am an adult reader, I enjoyed this book as it will cause me to ask questions about architecture that I had not previously considered - why are certain areas appealing and others not." - Goodreads review

The School of Life Press brings together thinking and ideas under the direction of series editor, Alain de Botton. It addresses issues such as how to find fulfilling work, how to master the art of relationships, how to understand one's past, how to achieve calm, and how better to understand and - where necessary - change the world. Their books share a coherent, curated message that speaks with one voice: calm, reassuring, and sane.

Children are rarely introduced properly to architecture, but there are in fact few subjects more important - because the quality of the architecture that surrounds us has such an impact on our mood and sense of well-being.The bitter truth is that in modern times, we've built a world that's far too often ugly or uncharming - and we've done so because only a very few people ever feel they have the right to comment on what gets built around them. This is a chance for the next generation to develop the tools to talk about architecture with confidence, knowledge and passion. It tells us about what a satisfying building is, what makes a street enticing (or not), why some cities are charming and others repel us - and how we might build going forward in a way that will reliably delight and uplift us.This engaging and beautifully illustrated guide is designed to help children (and their favourite adults) to understand how buildings work and how we might create the better looking world we all crave and deserve.

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