Elemental Architecture

Phillip Tabb's latest book provides an important contribution to illuminating the very ontology of architecture. Beginning with foundational philosophies followed by detailed written descriptions and visual imagery, he re-connects us both intellectually and viscerally to each of the elements - fire, earth, air, water, ether, and the temperaments which they illicit, reminding us that these are the essential building blocks from which all architecture emerges. Each successive chapter provides valuable illustrative examples of a design approach that responds with sympathy and harmony to the elemental forces of a given place, both positive and negative. At a time when the world is being experienced less and less through its primary modes of expression in favour of being mediated through our ubiquitous technologies, this book offers a much-welcomed antidote. It re-enchants the reader with the natural world, re-claiming a rich heritage common to all cultures that acknowledges nature's potentials for improving our physical, emotional, and spiritual wellbeing. - Roberto Chiotti, Architect, Toronto, Canada Written by one of the pioneers of sustainability, this book offers spiritually-grounded perspectives on how to create more integrated, restorative, and meaningful built environments. Systematic without being dogmatic, Phillip Tabb skillfully applies ancient wisdom to contemporary problems. How to build well are his primary concerns, and he presents a continuum of elemental, emplaced, and responsive approaches to design, and useful models for how we might live more deeply embedded in the world. - Thomas Barrie, AIA, Professor of Architecture, NC State University Refreshing! The solid principles found in the Dialogues of Plato, notably in the Timaeus, are alive and well in The Elements and Temperaments . Here can be found an orderly reminder of a truthful and logical methodology, which can be applied by any designer, especially an architect, to any design problem. It is particularly beneficial if the result is intended to be sustainable. This work presents an incisive reminder of the necessary and desired interactions with the elements. - Robert A. Armon, Architect, Denver, Colorado Elemental Architecture offers a fresh, compelling, and humanistic perspective to the imperative of sustainability in architecture. Instead of the usual focus on technical matters, Dr. Tabb approaches the topic from an unmistakable (and so necessary!) design sensibility. This is done by a thorough, convincing, and fascinating reconsideration of the ancient wisdom embedded in the five primordial elements (earth, water, fire, air, and ether). Through accessible language, insightful examples, useful case studies, clear summary graphs, and at times profound considerations, this book offers both beginners and seasoned designers something to learn, ponder, and apply. Elemental Architecture reminds us that it is our experience of life in its embodied and transcendental dimensions what our buildings are all about and that today's successful sustainable work can be achieved by paying loving attention to the fundamental forces and elements of old. - Julio Bermudez, The Catholic University of America