The Glasshouse - Hardcover

Hix, John

Hardcover

ISBN 10: 0714832111 ISBN 13: 9780714832111

Publisher: Phaidon Press Ltd, 1996

Synopsis

This is a comprehensive survey of glasshouses. The book traces the evolution of glass enclosures from the mid 16th-century, when the desire to nuture exotic plants in often hostile climates led to the development of the glasshouse and the ingenious mechanical servicing systems, capable of creating their own artificial micro-climates. Through the technical advances in the early 19th century, large-scale constructions were built initially for private individuals and botanical societies. Towards the mid-century, with the advent of mass production and specialist component systems, the fashioning of modular constructions such as the Crystal Palace became possible. The book charts the work of innovators such as Joseph Paxton and J.C. Loudon, and examines their influence on the pioneers of 20th-century design, such as Paul Scheerbart and Bruno Taut.

About this title

Review:

"Within each chapter there is a well-constructed narrative that brings out welcome new material on the development of iron, steel, and glass structures and their uses. The notably rich selection of over 300 pictures, well reproduced and generously annotated, relates closely to the discussion."--"Technology and Culture"

From the Back Cover:

The Glasshouse traces the evolution of glass enclosures from the mid-seventeenth century when the desire to nurture exotic plants in a foreign and often hostile climate led to the development of the glasshouse and ingenious mechanical servicing systems, capable of creating its own artificial microclimate. The Glasshouse charts the work of innovators such as Joseph Paxton and J. C. Loudon, and proceeds to examine their influence on the pioneers of twentieth-century design such as Paul Scheerbart and Bruno Taut. The Glasshouse is richly illustrated from a wealth of historic and contemporary etchings, lithographs and photographs. It will appeal to the specialist and the enthusiastic gardener alike.

About this edition

• Publisher: Phaidon Press Ltd
• Publication date: 1996
• ISBN 10: 0714832111
• ISBN 13: 9780714832111
• Binding: Hardcover
• Edition number: 2
• Number of pages: 240