Architecture is a field that is wider than the construction of a single building; it represents culture, history, and human aspirations. From the ancient wonderlands of Bhutan to contemporary ones like Morphogenesis, architecture narrates tales of innovation, perseverance, and change. Whether you are a practicing architect, a student, or an enthusiast in quest of inspiration, books about architecture are a gateway to understanding the philosophies and principles that shape our built environment.

These 15 must-read books about architecture cover various topics, including sustainability, heritage conservation, and urbanism. Moreover, these books about architecture provide different insights into design, which would be valuable reading material for those who explore architecture in all of its dimensions.

1. MORPHOGENESIS – The Master Architect Series | By: Author, Morphogenesis

Morphogenesis, paving its way as one of India’s most renowned architecture firms, has been thriving for 20 years, evolving from a home garage to a team of 125 working in the Global South. Sonali and Manit Rastogi are redefining what contemporary architecture can be in the context of sustainability through social, environmental, and financial aspects. Working across all kinds of climate zones and terrains, the studio draws design inspiration from the regional history of building knowledge and achieving high standards of sustainability and livability. From residences to high-rise apartments, from institutional buildings to commercial buildings. Morphogenesis has addressed sustainability, the use of passive energy, and optimizing resources, strategically transforming its way in the global marketplace. Delivering the compilation of great workmanship, philosophy, and influential results, projects in this book are curated not only to inspire young Indian architects but also emerging Asian architects as well.

2. Museums of Rajasthan | By: Chandramani Singh

Museums – the Chippendale of great historic culture, art, and the State itself of Rajasthan are dated back to the late 19th century. At first, it started as a human instinct by individuals to collect their appealing objects, but later shifting collections of important resources in the historical study. These Government Museums of Rajasthan opened doors to scholars, connoisseurs, craftsmen, and laymen to study and learn the techniques of art through their rich collections. Apart from artifacts, they also display Botanical, Zoological, Archeological, and Geological splendors from every part of the State. Such tremendous growth of museums eventually demanded the documentation and publication of their treasured highlights. Therefore, this book is a poetic response to every history enthusiast in the urge to learn more.

3. Introduction to Mandirs | By: Sadhu Amrutvijaydas

Mandirs – a collection of beliefs, escalation of love, and peace are some of the pillars of Hinduism Sanatan Dharma. Throughout time, Mandirs have been a source of comfort, strength, and guidance nourishing Hinduism worldwide. Not only dwelling the Gods, but Mandirs are also spectacular representations of ancient architecture, social institutions shaping one’s social, economic, and cultural lives. The book beautifully takes us through the journey of the evolution of Mandirs marking Hinduism’s philosophical ideas and visions of life, breaking down details of every element.

4. The Corb’s Capitol – Journey Through Chandigarh Architecture | By: Sangeet Sharma

This book is simply a love letter to Chandigarh. Moreover, people are always curious about the architecture of public buildings in the new city, especially when the city is Chandigarh, which is enriched by a few revolutionary architectural buildings. That’s when the author realized that the bare minimum information about these buildings is available. Hence, to justify the poetic response and experience that shaped him and many generations of architects professionally and personally, this book is grateful for the city’s historic architecture.

5. Letters to A Young Architect | By: Christopher Benninger

These letters are the continuation of the legacy of not just Christopher but of all the legendary architects he encountered, shaping the emerging curious minds. The memoir of Christopher’s life lessons and his point of view towards urban issues followed by new technologies and their impact on them on a larger spectrum. His everlasting concern regarding architectural education and his approach to the solution by being a guru to students have been beautifully captured in this book. This chronicle of inspiration is a must-read for all age groups to bloom as professionals as well as humans all over.

6. Why Loiter? | By: Shilpa Phadke, Sameera Khan & Shilpa Ranade

The book ‘Why Loiter?’ explores the safety and citizenship of women in urban public spaces, addressing the misconceptions about women’s safety. The authors conducted unconventional research, mapping Mumbai and tracing women’s footprints in various locations, including railway stations, public parks, cafes, and shopping malls. The research, titled Gender and Space, sheds light on the myth of women’s safety in Mumbai and advocates for public debate. The authors consider various contexts, races, societal aspects, and professions of women. The book aims to revive the rights of risk-taking, equality, and safety for women by allowing them to enjoy the city’s pleasures and loiter freely. The book remains relevant today, highlighting the need for a better understanding and implementation of changes in urban public spaces.

7. Achyut Kanvinde – Ākār | By: B.K., Tanuja, and Sanjay Kanvinde

Composed of Achyut’s most important works and his personally written articles, this marvel teleports one to the pre-modern era of India. Kanvinde was way ahead in time to catalyze the modernist movement in architecture even before Le Corbusier started. But not often were his efforts and creativity recognized, especially while he was practicing Brutalist architecture. Achyut was able to see beyond the ornamentation of the buildings and requirements of the country post-independence. Rather than decorating them with hollow shells, he initiated the practice of using raw building materials and prioritizing the functionality of the structures. Once upon a time, the lost identity of his works is now coming into consideration by emerging architects and enthusiasts, and that is what this book’s purpose lies in: inspiring young minds.

8. Cosmic Dance In Stone | By: Ramu Katakam

The poetic record is a take on the wonders once created using stone. Stone being one of the oldest construction materials to be present on earth with a long time of reformation, holds a unique charm in the structures. Through this lyrical composition of philosophy and aesthetics, the author takes us through marvels of stone like Bdami, Mahabalipuram, Ellora, Elephanta, Angkor Wat, and Hampi. The visuals captured with the utmost details of these places make us see the intervention and precision of the craftsmen and architects of ancient times. Cosmic Dance in Stone is a way of paying our respect towards these majestic landscapes and devotion to the creator of the universe. It is through beautifully seized photographs and illustrations by Ramu Kaatakam.

9. Visvakarma’s Children | By: Jaya Jaitly

India, a country rooted in artisanal practices, has a significant role in society and culture. Jaya Jaytli highlights the importance of craftsmen as ‘Vishwakarma’s Children’ as well as their role in the country’s agricultural economy. However, concerns arise due to mass-produced goods and minimalism, which often negates the functional aspects of crafts. This can lead to the extinction of rich historic crafts. Jaya Jaytli argues that protecting craftsmen and women can help the new Indian Democratic Civilization flourish and promote the growth of the Indian Democratic Civilisation.

10. Ephemeral Urbanism | By: Rahul Mehrotra & Filipe Vera

What is the significance of temporary settlements in this ever-evolving urban fabric? And more accurately, do all these temporary structures contribute on a larger scale to urban development? Ephemeral Urbanism invites us to ponder over aspects of material impermanence such as dematerialization and disassembly as an integral part of the design and construction processes of cities. The research was conducted at the Harvard Graduate School of Design with the aim of bringing to light the idea of non-permanent configurations of the urban landscape through diagrams, photographs, and aerial images.

11. (de) Coding Mumbai | By: Sameep Padora & Shreyank Khemalapure

India, with a whooping population and not an equivalent amount of land available, often faces a scarcity of housing to cater to all ranges of people. The (de) Coding Mumbai initiative explores how Mumbai’s Development Control Regulations (DCR) and Development Plans (DP) have evolved. Originally aimed at ensuring light, ventilation, and public health, these rules now focus more on financial gains, often neglecting thoughtful and innovative housing design. The study examines how these regulations shaped Mumbai’s urban form, why better housing was possible in the past, as well as the difficulties in achieving it today.

12. Celebrating Public Spaces of India | By: Archana Gupta & Anshuman Gupta

“Public spaces are a window into the city’s soul.” – Sharon Zukin. Public spaces play a vital role in the development of any urban fabric, specifically in developing nations like India. It can be either a bustling market or Temple Chowk, a historic place, a business district, or simply a waterfront area. In this book, the authors cover iconic landmarks across India and analyze the public nature as well as its contribution to evolving the built fabric.

13. Great Expectations: Notes to an Architect | By: Christopher Benninger & Edited by: Karan Gandhi

One fine day, while conversing, Christopher Benninger and Akkisetti Ramprasad shared their thoughts on their inspiring journey in architecture, within a brief history of time marked by human progress and great expectations as their outcome. This book is a sequel to one of his best-selling works, Letters to a Young Architect, which contains notes on the legacy not only of Christopher but also of all the legendary architects he encountered, shaping the minds of emerging thinkers. The memoir offers insights into Christopher’s life lessons and his perspective on urban issues, as well as the impact of new technologies on a broader scale.

14. Courtyard Houses of India | By: Yatin Pandya

With the rapidly growing population and shifts in economic paradigms, a boom can be seen in the housing industry. However, amidst the extensive construction, design considerations and a sensitive approach to house design seem to have been neglected, resulting in a lack of consideration for quality living. Additionally, to address these critical issues, Ar. Yatin Pandya aims to take us back to the Courtyard Houses of India, where human needs were central to the design. Moreover, with the rich cultural influence of traditional Indian houses, let us dive into a pool of inspiration for modern housing design.

15. Bhutan – A Mosaic of the Dragons | By: Bhutan Communications

Bhutan, the rare gem hidden in the deep folds of the great Himalayan Mountains is the blend of natural splendors, religion, and rich culture. The unique as well as untouched terrain generating breathtaking views can mesmerize anyone. Rooted in the essence of Buddhism the country holds a great grip on literature, art, and crafts drawn from its religious influence. Bhutan also possesses a significant identity in architecture, showcasing a blend of engineering skills and aesthetic beauty from massive fortresses to residences and bridges. Above all chants of peace and happiness from hundreds of sacred monasteries rejuvenate the atmosphere and pave the way for life. Additionally, this book aims to blur the borders and introduce opulent culture, heritage as well as undiscovered lands to the global audience.

Conclusion

Thus, the world of architecture is constantly changing with a give and take between the past and the present. The books about architecture included in this list provide some interesting angles and perspectives. They not only raise issues of consciousness but also inspire innovative approaches, thus offering lessons far beyond blueprints and facades. Let these books about architecture readings remind us of architecture’s immense responsibilities and creative potential as we take design to the next phase.