First published in 1976 is based on the authors very successful The original book has been completely revised and new illustrations have been specially drawn. This book gives a comprehensive account of the role of architecture in the environment of a constantly developing world. It traces the history of building from its most primitive origins to the complex architecture of the current times. The book takes as a starting- point ideas that will be familiar to all its readers, then leads them on to an examination of the attitudes and approaches of architects and planners, so that they can follow the creative process step by step. The style of the book is direct and very readable, with a minimum of technological language and will be useful for general readers interested in architecture.