In Search Of Natural Architecture

Drawing on his background as an architect specializing in housing, environmental issues, and holistic design, Pearson compiles a collection of 'environmentally clean' and 'spiritually healthy' buildings from around the world and across the centuries. He divides his discussion of these buildings, which are illustrated with 146 color photographs and eighteen drawings, into six thematic chapters. The first explains how ancient architectural forms like yurts and teepees reflect archetypes of human spirituality, while the second explores the rejuvenating qualities of today's healing architecture. The third chapter focuses on ecologically aware building principles, the fourth on the lessons of traditional folk architecture, and the fifth on the culturally vibrant architecture of developing countries. The final chapter describes how all these architectural influences have led to a new awakening, embodied by architects' organic designs for contemporary structures from farmhouses to department stores. Together the six chapters comprise a provocative architectural journey, a must-read for anyone interested in environmentally sound buildings that are in harmony with the landscape and the human spirit.