Nineteenth-century American inventor and entrepreneur James Bogardus was known for his unique grinding mill and other patented devices, but his enduring claim to fame is his cast iron structures, forerunners of the modern skyscraper. A passionate advocate for iron's strength, economy, suitability for ornamentation, and fire resistance, he invented several new methods of construction; his buildings rose from New York to San Francisco to Havana. Modern interest in Bogardus stems from the historic preservation movement; his four surviving buildings in New York are recognized landmarks. 1998, 192pp., paperback

This book provides a unique and comprehensive survey of changes and trends in the construction industry focusing on the post-war years and emphasizing their contemporary and future relevance. 1998, 352 pp.

First published in 1916, this book provides a fascinating account of the materials and techniques used in the construction of vernacular buildings from primitive forms through to the timber buildings of the nineteenth century. Covers the chief elements of the building structure - walls, floors, roofs, doors, windows and chimneys. Includes a chapter on thatching examining the types of thatch used and the different ways of laying and securing it (still considered by many to be the best account of thatching). 1999, 320 pp, hardback.

Papers presented at The Robert Gordon University Heritage Convention. This book deals with policy, methods and techniques for the stewardship of our land and cultural assets. Focus is on interpretation and presentation of heritage themes. Articles celebrate achievements and debate issues relating to the natural and built environment, the future of green tourism, planning and interpretation in museums, parks and private estates. Of interest to directors of museums, galleries, and parks, and colleges offering courses in related fields. 1993, 372pp, hardback.

Based on papers presented at the Conference held as part of the ‘Kings of the North Sea AD 250-850’ Project, held at South Shields, UK, 2001.

Across Europe, the new century is a time of change in policies for the conservation and interpretation of the historic environment. Some countries are revising their legislation and there is a general trend towards greater emphasis on social inclusion and accessibility. Representatives from the five partner countries of the ‘Kings of the North Sea’ Project met to compare conservation practice across many regions and countries. Their contributions ranged from the philosophy of conservation to the legal and spatial planning frameworks; case studies included the role of professional engineers, the conservation of sensitive townscapes and the interpretation of the urban areas of the Hadrian’s Wall World Heritage Site. 2002, 224 pp, hardback.

A thorough look at preservation philosophy, history of the movement, role of government, designation and documentation of historic structures, establishing a historic district, sensitive architectural design and planning, and the economics of building rehabilitation. 1999, 254pp, paper.

This collection of papers addresses the division between history and heritage by looking at the ways in which we make use of the past, the way we consume our yesterdays. 1998, 272pp., hardback.

This book confirms that we can learn much from studying the past, both about the motivation for travel and how to provide for the traveler. 1998, 448pp., hardcover.

A well written, comprehensive look at the movement to preserve America's historic buildings and neighborhoods. Offers a synopsis of the history of the preservation movement, an analysis of the relevant data, and discussion of key issues that face preservationists. Includes appendices on federal legislation, National Register's criteria for evaluation, and Secretary of Interior's standards and guidelines. Also, a chronology of important dates in the history of preservation starting from the 18th century. 75 B&W photos, glossary & bibliography.1991, 240pp, paper.

This lively guide profiles forty famous architects, detailing their styles and philosophies.  1986, 204pp, paper.

The story of modern architecture is told here through the loves and works of three men who changed the face of the cities we live in. Le Courbusier gave to modern design an sure and brilliant sense of form; Mies brought an almost Gothic discipline of structure; Wright heralded an new and dramatic concept of space and freedom. Through this triple focus, Peter Blake provides a perspective on the entire range of twentieth-century architecture

A guide to American architecture in a pocket format. This is a compact history of architecture that explains the features that shaped buildings from early Colonial to International style. Excellent photos. 1983, paper, 112 pp.