Building Big
Description
Why this shape and not that? Why steel instead of concrete or stone? Why put it here and not over there? These are the kinds of questions that David Macaulay asks himself when he observes an architectural wonder. These questions take him back to the basic process of design from which all structures begin, from the realization of a need for the structure to the struggles of the engineers and designers to map out and create the final construction.
As only he can, David Macaulay engages readers’ imaginations and gets them thinking about structures they see and use every day — bridges, tunnels, skyscrapers, domes, and dams. In Building Big he focuses on the connections between the planning and design problems and the solutions that are finally reached. Whether a structure is imposing or inspiring, he shows us that common sense and logic play just as important a part in architecture as imagination and technology do. As always, Macaulay inspires readers of all ages to look at their world in a new way.
Praise for Building Big
"Sheer awe id likely to be readers' response to this nuts-and-bolts companion to the recent PBS series of the same name. . . . Building Big is an intoxicating, synergistic blend of good writing and better art." —School Library Journal, starred review School Library Journal, Starred
"If ever a book were destined to inspire a future generation of engineers and designers, it would be this volume." —Publishers Weekly, starred review Publishers Weekly, Starred
Oppenheim Toy Portfolio Gold Award —