An influential Swiss architect Le Corbusier (by name Charles-Édouard Jeanneret) said that if you want to be an architect you should do 2 things:

• Travel

• Read books

In this blog post, I’m presenting you with some of my favourite books - both architecture-related and non-architecture. The latter are still very relevant to any creative mind, in my opinion.

My love for books is growing as I grow older and the time spent reading a book becomes more and more precious to me. Here are 5+5 books which are already on my bookshelf and which I can only recommend. Let’s start with architecture ones:

[Affiliate Disclosure: If you decide to purchase through the links below, I’ll receive compensation without any extra cost to you.]

Architecture Books

• Wood Architecture Now!, Philip Jodidio

  • I'm a big fan of using timber in architecture and this book represents great case studies for your projects or inspiration on what's possible with wood.

• Yes is More, Bjarke Ingels Group

  • An Archicomic on architectural evolution - one of the best known and most sought-out architectural studios - BIG (Bjarke Ingels Group) - represents their projects and evolution in an entertaining way through a comic format.

• The Language of Architecture - 26 Principles Every Architect Should Now, Andrea Simitch, Val Warke

  • Very well structured and categorized overview of the foundations of architectural design presented in a digestible way.

• Understanding Architectural Details, Emma Walshaw

  • 150 construction details explained and presented in both 2D and 3D, including downloadables in both DWGs and Sketchup file formats. Invaluable resource for every architectural student and professional. I wish I had that during my studies!

• 101 Things I Learned in Architecture School, Matthew Frederick

  • Great and reflective book on architectural studies, including concise lessons in design, drawing, the creative process, and presentation.

Non-architecture Books

These books are not directly related to architecture, but they are on many levels extremely relevant to any creative mind. I cannot recommend Austin Kleon's books enough! Having all 3 of them, I still keep coming back to them every now and then.

• Steal Like an Artist, Austin Kleon

  • Extremely relevant in today’s digital era, very funny, and a bit scary.

• Show Your Work!, Austin Kleon

  • This book got me started with sharing my work with the world, starting with Instagram and building my online presence. It sounds like I owe you, Austin!

• Keep Going, Austin Kleon

  • Most recent one offering advice on how to overcome struggles and keep going anyway. Ten simple rules for how to stay creative, focused, and true to yourself—for life.

• Don’t Get a Job... Make a Job - How to make it as a creative graduate, Gem Barton

  • The title says it all. I've found it very helpful in times of frustration and not knowing what to do with myself. The book offers many case studies, advice and examples from real life. Inspiring and motivating.

• Grit: The Power of Passion and Perseverance, Angela Duckworth

  • Success, deconstructed. It’s not about talent and this is the proof. Amazing resource for anyone striving to succeed in any area of life.

Never miss another blog post!

Join 20,000+ readers and get updates on new blog posts, freebies, educational resources, and more! No spam. Spam sucks!

Hope you find these interesting and give them a read! What are your favourite (non-)architecture books? Let me know in the comments below!

Happy reading,

David