Glasshouse

`The Glasshouse` traces the evolution of the glass building from its humble hothouse beginnings to the climate-controlled, high-tech structures of the 20th century. It features a wide range of horticultural and other building types, including early 16th-century orangeries and examples from the 18th and 19th centuries when increasingly more complex structures, incorporating iron and industrial construction techniques, were built. The book charts the contribution of innovators such as Joseph Paxton and John C. Loudon and their influence on pioneers of 20th-century design such as Paul Scheerbart and Bruno Taut. It is illustrated with a wide selection of archival and contemporary photographs, etchings and lithographs.`Well illustrated with photographs, plans, sections and etchings, the book is primarily a tribute to the wonderful glass palaces of the past. As such, it`s a clear winner.` (House & Garden)