vernacular architecture

Discusses seventeen examples of unusual construction throughout history, including the Tower of Babel, the Globe Theater, igloos, log cabins, the Great Wall of China, and a lost city of the Incas.

Traces the development of housing from early shelter to the 20th century and beyond.

Offers a room-by-room and generation-by-generation description of the Yin Yu Tang home, which was built in China during the Qing dynasty around the year 1800 and has housed eight generations of Huang family members.

An introduction to the world of folk artist Grandma Prisbrey.

Looks at the architecture program at Auburn University, known as the Rural Studio, and shows how director Samuel Mockbee has honored his belief that architecture should be an ethically responsible profession by putting students to work creating homes for the poor in Alabama.

Discusses castles, manor houses, mansions, and other large fortified dwellings throughout history.

Describes how homes in cold climates are designed and constructed.