Pre-Owned Californian Textile Block: Frank Lloyd Wright at a Glance (Hardcover) 1856487199 9781856487191

From 1917 to 1924 Frank Lloyd Wright spent much of his time in California, and while he was there he created a small number of buildings that remain classics of American architecture. Using an innovative building process, which he called his "textile block system," these buildings were constructed with precast concrete blocks, which were then bound together at the site with steel rods and poured concrete. The blocks themselves were molded with decoration on both sides and could be inset with glass to allow light to filter through in interesting patterns. The prototype was one of Wright's most famous buildings -- "Hollyhock House," influenced by ancient Mayan design and built for heiress Aline Barnsdall. In subsequent years the architect refined his ideas to produce some of his most distinctive buildings, including the Ennis, Millard, Freeman, and Storer houses. Indeed, these were homes so groundbreaking in their design that decades after their construction they are still coveted by directors as locations for science fiction movies and TV shows. This title from the Frank Lloyd Wright at a Glance series shows each of the textile block buildings in exquisite detail. Following an introduction that examines the history of the process and puts it in the context of Wright's life and career, each building is extensively covered in words and stunning photographs. As with all the books in this series, Californian Textile Block is an informative celebration of the genius of one of the world's greatest architects ever. Book jacket. Contributor: Abby Moor