Synopses & Reviews
Synopsis
This history of architecture in the American Southwest presents conservation and preservation of adobe buildings and suggestions for solar options. Photographs and drawings make this a document of unusual value for all interested in preservation, rehabilitation or construction.
Synopsis
The American Southwest possesses an extraordinary depth of cultural heritage and much of its history is preserved in its architecture. Particularly prominent in the region's man-made landscape are the historic structures made from the earth itself--adobe. Attention has turned to ways of preserving and maintaining the old buildings of the Southwest partly because of the growing national interest in historic preservation. However, in the Southwest there has also been an increased awareness of the inherent viability of native architecture. Adobe structures present unique challenges and require special treatment and until now, much of that information has been unpublished. AGELESS ADOBE provides practical details on methods of preservation and maintenance for old adobe buildings. The over 200 illustrations in the book along with directions on "how-to" will enable the do-it-yourself home owner as well as the professional architect or contractor to plan and carry out renovation. The author presents solutions to the problems of keeping an historic structure intact while repairing it and making it 20th century livable. The issue of energy conservation is discussed at length and the premise of the book is that historic integrity does not have to be sacrificed for energy efficiency. Rehabilitation is always preferable, usually possible and often more profitable than demolition.