Wood and Wood Joints - Building Traditions of Europe, Japan and China

Building with wood as an ecologically viable material is a tradition with a long history. The timber architecture which has ensued over the past centuries reveals to the modern observer the depth of knowledge which has enabled both Eastern und Western cultures to use this wonderful material in such a creative way. In the most typical method of building with wood, elements are connected by using wood joints which do not require the assistance of adhesives or metal connectors.
This art of wood jointing reached its zenith in Japan; but Europe too provided its share of highly influential forms. By looking at several hundred examples from Japan and 18 European countries, this book describes in great detail the history of timber architecture in terms of its technical, aesthetic and ecological dimensions. Enlarged by an account of structural timber construction in China, this new edition offers a comparison of the developments in Europe and East Asia.
The beauty of timber structures and their detailing is captured in superb duotone photographs. Exciting three-dimensional drawings reveal the secret life concealed within the joints.