Architecture of Brazil: 1900-1990 examines the processes that underpin modern Brazilian architecture under various influences and characterizes different understandings of modernity; evident in the chapter topics of this book. Accordingly; the author does not give overall preference to particular architects nor works; with the exception of a few specific works and architects; including Warchavchik; Niemeyer; Lucio Costa; and Vilanova Artigas.
#2096177 in eBooks 2012-11-13 2012-11-01File Name: B00APUTEJ8
Review
5 of 5 people found the following review helpful. Building a DreamBy E. JarolinIn this book the architecture of high concept and witty aphorism takes a back seat to the too often overlooked hard labor; ingenuity and shear tenacity required to make the dream a reality.It is the story of Douglas and Jackie Grant; a young couple in pursuit of a dream: to experience life in a house designed by renowned architect Frank Lloyd Wright. Unable to afford the usual method of contracting out the work; they undertook the herculean task of building it themselves. With occasional help from knowledgable; and not so knowledgable; tradesmen they succeeded. However; all is not beautiful views and soft breezes as the shortcomings of life in the completed house manifest themselves. Wright said; "living in one of my houses will change your life." What he did not say was whether the change would be for good or ill. In this particular case the answer appears to be both.Excepting two color photos on the covers; the visual presentation consists of black and white images: a perspective rendering; upper and lower floor plans (magnifying glass recommended); construction photos and a handful of photos of the completed house. Unfortunately; there are no photos of the major rooms; though the monumental stone staircase gets two. The rather sparse photographic coverage is particularly disappointing as this house has; to my knowledge; never been comprehensively covered elsewhere.Despite the photographic shortcomings; I recommend this book as a compelling tale well told.4 of 4 people found the following review helpful. An American Proceeding; An American AdventureBy Mark H. SmollerDecember 26; 2011I have now spent many hours feeling as if I were sharing the great American adventure which just happened to be the Great American Proceeding. Wow! What an adventure it was! I can only begin to imagine what it was like to grow up with Donna Reillys parents.They were amazing people.. The entire journey from the little brown house to their final days was a testament to their courage; and will and energy and intelligence.......and love. Ms. Reilly writes with such love and joy; and though there must have been some times when it all felt like drudgery; she obviously did not feel that way. Her affection for her parents is heartwarming; and the relationship between her and her siblings seems so positive Her sense of humor showed through at all times; a trait which i suspect was prevalent in her home; or how else could all of this be accomplished? I could sense the wide eyes of a young girl as she finds herself in the presence of the great Frank Lloyd Wright and the excitement of the impending completion of her wonderful home. The Grant House itself takes on an almost human mien as it is conceived; grows; and then starts to age.The house itself is so personal; for obvious reasons. It literally holds Ms. Reillys moms blood and Im certain considerable sweat from all of the family. I truthfully could not put the book down. There was no mystery. The house would be built. But Ms. Reillys skill in bringing the entire story to life in a way which flowed so well and was so warm; that I felt that I was sharing the emotions with her entire family as they all lived this almost fantasy. Great adventure; wonderful book!6 of 6 people found the following review helpful. Not the Money Pit or Mr. Blandings HouseBy Whitworth StokesBut; it does have a few of the features of those two movies that anyone who has ever built or remodeled a house will enjoy. However; it is more of a human story and the unique relationship between one of the most famous people in American history and the lesser known couple who built the house with virtually no experience or training in the business of building a house. The first hand account of how Doug and Jackie Grant; two of the nicest people I ever met; raised a family; held a demanding job; and built a unique house is a true love story. It would be nice to say that the finished product was flawless; the house is a respected treasure today; and any other happy ending one would like to write; but that is not the case. But; if you believe the journey is always more interesting than the result; this is a journey well worth reading about. The only reason I give it four stars instead of five is because some people might question my objectivity. This is a house I first heard about in 1954 or 1955 and I regret that I was never able to actually see it.