A thorough introduction to building for the non-expert, this book is a one-stop book reference source for knowing everything important about building structures.

Readers:

follow the history of structural understanding
grasp all the concepts of structural behaviour via step by step explanations
apply the concepts to a simple building
see how the concepts also apply to real buildings from Durham Cathedral to the Bank of China
use the concepts to define the design process
see how the concepts inform design choices
understand how engineering and architecture have diverged and what effect this has had
learn to do simple but relevant numerical calculations for actual structures
enter the world of structural theory and see how modern techniques are applied.

With over 400 pages and over 1000 user-friendly diagrams, this book is a must for anyone who has to or would like to understand the fascinating world of structures.

Review

'How I wish that, when I was introduced to the "theory of structures" and "strength of materials", Millais' book had been available to replace the dense and boring tomes that I was presented with.' – Derek Sugden, The Architects' Journal

'Has someone ever urged you to "go back to first principles" but you could never find out what they were? Well, here is the book that will get you much, if not all, of the way there.' – Structural Engineer

'[Provides] the historically-minded reader with an informative insight into structural matters, from which a better understanding of buildings should come. ' - Construction History

'This book uses simple language to explain complex structural concepts and mathematical calculations. Ideal for students of 1st and 2nd years.' – Lecturer, University of Liverpool

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