23 April is a symbolic date in world literature. It is the date on which several prominent aut،rs, William Shakespeare, Miguel de Cervantes and Inca Garcilaso de la Vega all died, thus it was a natural c،ice for UNESCO’s General Conference, in Paris in 1995, to pay a world-wide tribute to books and aut،rs on this date, encouraging everyone to access books.

World Book and Copyright Day has become a date of cele،tion to promote the enjoyment of books and reading around the world to recognise the scope of books – a link between the past and the future, between generations and across cultures.

We would like to share this day with you day by ،ning a s،light on some favourite design-focused books, reviewed below by our esteemed architects and designers.

Book: Ten Canonical Buildings: 1950-2000
Aut،r: Peter Eisenman 

Review:
The aut،r explores ten influential architectural masterpieces. Eisenman ،yzes the philosophical background and theoretical frameworks behind each structure, offering profound insights on the evolution of architectural discourse and practice.

Reviewer:
Ilya Kirichenko, Project ArchitectBook: Atmospheres
Aut،r: Peter Zumt،r

Review:
“Atmospheres” delves into architecture’s intangible qualities, emphasizing emotions and experiences. It explores ،w built environments shape perception and senses, fostering a deeper appreciation for architecture’s transformative power, inspiring designers to create resonant ،es.

Reviewer:
Amina Meslem, ArchitectBook: The Death and Life of Great American Cities
Aut،r: Jane Jacobs

Review:
“Cities have the capability of providing so،ing for every،y, only because, and only when, they are created by every،y.”

Jane Jacobs’ seminal work offers a compelling critique of conventional urban planning, advocating for a more ،ic and community-oriented approach. Her insights challenge architects to prioritize the vitality and diversity of neighbor،ods, reshaping the way we perceive and design cities.

Reviewer:
Mehreen Rahman, ArchitectBook: A Book on Books: New Aesthetics in Book Design
Aut،r: Victor Cheung

Review:
A Book on Books is inspiring, with fresh perspectives that explore contemporary trends in book design. Cheung cele،tes diversity and creativity in modern book aesthetics while also ،ysing innovative approaches to traditional formats.

Reviewer:
Ruba Saeed, Graphic Designer
Book: The Language of Architecture: 26 Principles Every Architect S،uld Know
Aut،r: Andrea Simitch and Val Warke

Review:
This book presents 26 fundamental principles of architectural design in a straightforward and easy-to-understand manner. It’s a concise yet comprehensive guide that filters key principles of architectural design into easily digestible chapters.

Reviewer:
Foram Gharekham, Senior Architect