Balinese style villas and resorts are popping up everywhere—from Ibiza to St Barts to Singapore. But what is Balinese architecture? And why is it so popular today? Traditional Balinese houses, temples and pavilions are designed to allow man to exist in harmony with the natural forces of the universe—reflecting core Balinese beliefs about man's place in relation to the cosmos, the gods, the ancestors, and the world around him. Innovative local and Western architects have been designing resorts and villas on Bali for decades, drawing their inspiration from these local traditions.In this one-of-a-kind book, author Julian Davison provides a comprehensive guide to Balinese architectural forms, the Balinese belief system, the rituals associated with building, the materials and construction techniques, and the intricate ornamentation used. Over 100 watercolor illustrations and photographs provide a clear picture of the island's architecture as well as an eye-opening look at a culture and a people that have captivated the world's imagination.
Introduction to Japanese Architecture provides an overview of Japanese architecture in its historical and cultural context.It begins with a discussion of prehistoric dwellings and concludes with a description of contemporary trends in areas as diverse as country inns, underground malls, and love hotels. The intervening 12,000 years are analyzed in reference to major changes in architecture caused by Buddhist and indigenous influences, feudalism, and finally the influence of Western culture in the 19th century.The architecture book provides insights into the dynamic nature of this contrast and how it reflects the underlying diversity of Japanese culture. The comprehensive, accessible text is complemented by over 340 color photographs, diagrams, and specially commissioned watercolors.
Take a journey through Indian architecture from the dawn of civilization to the present with this colorful, attractive survey.The architecture of India reflects both the cultural diversity of the subcontinent and its rich political and historical inheritance. In this guide, the various strands of this rich architectural history, from the dawn of civilization to modern times, are beautifully presented in word and picture. Readers are taken on a fascinating tour of Indus Valley civilization, early Vedic traditions, Hindu, Jain, Mughal, regional, colonial and post-independence architectural styles. Themes such as water architecture and the architecture of science also figure prominently, giving many westerners their first glimpse of these styles.The informative text, complemented by 400 photographs, watercolors, maps and plans, provide compelling evidence of India's influence on building design throughout history.