This book is a compilation of more than 200 projects which present a range of different types of housing. The projects chosen illustrate the main trends in housing construction today and how these can be adapted to suit the different conditions of each site.

The projects are preceded by a theoretical introduction, which deals with the questions that arise for architects dedicated to housing construction; in other words, it bridges the gap between theories and the conditions that need to be faced and dealt with when planning and building. We are also guided through different proposals regarding house planning and the relationship this has with town planning; not forgetting the controversy regarding what is a suitable place for habitation: the city or more "natural" environments?

This work features more than 250 examples of contemporary buildings that show how the architect have implemented to evercome the restrictions of space, needs and some time regulations, and environment. From the multifunction building to the regular apartment building, the project presented in this book, have one common point, the research of concepts and innovative distribution of the space looking for optimizing at its most the possibilities of available space and the program.

The works are presented in a clear and organized manner and the projects' are classified by architecture types. Also includes a theory part where the main guidelines are reviewed (measurements, distribution concepts, considerations that have to be taken in account and so on) and how they are applied in the projects featured. All plans and descriptive texts have been realized together with the architects themselves enabling in this way the best understanding of each project displayed, for each of the projects displayed. Making this a unique reference book for any professional on the architecture and construction.

Introduction

The Theory and History of Construction

Buildings between party walls:

  between party walls

  on corners

  deep floor plans

  closed block

  open block

Freestanding apartment blocks:

  vertical

  compact

  longitudinal

  parallel blocks

  "L"-shaped

  organic forms

Residential housing estates:

  Residential estates

  Semi-detached houses