For over 70 years, Architectural Graphic Standards has been the bedrock design reference for generations of architects, builders and engineers. Now comes the most complete design tool yet--the completely updated and expanded Tenth Edition. You'll find a wealth of information, complete with 10,000 drawings.
this book isn't incredibly engaging and presents more information than would be in my creative best interest to hold in my pretty little head. However, it is necessary for passing my ARE 4.0.
Excellent visual reference when working on construction designs. It's endorsed by the American Institute of Architects. It provides standard construction methods and designs, including dimensions and capacities. Chapters Include General Planning and Design: (Anthropometrics, sizes, reaches, dimensions of people; Residential Design, Space Planning, Theater Design, Acoustics, Lighting, Fire Protection, Building Systems, Transportation, Building Loads and calculations) Sitework Concrete Masonry Metals Wood Thermal & Moisture Protection Doors & Windows Finishes Specialties (Cubicles, Access Flooring, Fireplaces/Stoves, Flagpoles, Fire Protection, Lockers & Storage, Toilet & Bath, Operable Partitions) Equipment (Vaults/Security, Solid Waste Handling, Furnishings (Residential - ovens, pull down stairs, luggage, kitchen appliances, office furniture, residential furniture) Special Construction (Air-Supported, Special Purpose Rooms, Sound/Vibration/Seismic control, Radiation Control, Pre-Engineered Structures, Sauna's, Pools) Conveying Systems (Elevators, Lifts, Hoists, Cranes) Mechanical (Insulation, Vibration, Plumbing, Heat Generation, Refrigeration, Air Handling, Air Distribution, Heat Transfer) Electrical (Basic materials & methods, Power Generation, High Voltage, Service & Distribution, Lighting, communications, electric heat, lighting protection) Sports (indoor & outdoor, winter, equestrian, aquatics) Energy Design (thermal comfort, climate, solar, earth, insulation & thermal transmission) Historic Preservation
"Architectural Graphic Standards" is the go-to reference book for any inquiries concerning the legality of a building (while still in the stage of its construction).
It's the bible of architecture. given that -- it is both fascinating and essential, but not necessarily meant to keep you up at night. But all things considered as a reference book it is pretty darned amazing in how readable it actually is.