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Architecture: Buildings/Construction

This research guide provides tools and techniques to complete research assignments in the School of Architecture.

Books and Videos about Buildings & Construction

To browse books on topics within the category of building design and construction, find the section of the stacks or oversize section of the library with books beginning with the following call numbers. If you don't see your topic listed here, use the library catalog to locate books in the call number area of the topic you are researching or ask a librarian for help.

  • building construction: TH0000-TH9999
  • building materials: NA4100-NA4145, TA401-TA492
  • building types: NA4150-NA4160
  • earthwork, foundations: TA715-TA787
  • structural engineering: TA630-TA695
  • residential architecture: NA7100-NA7884
  • architectural drawing/representation: NA2695-NA2793
  • details and decoration: NA2835-NA4050

Strategies for searching the WU Library catalog for books, ebooks, and videos on specific building design and construction topics

Example: To find resources on a particular building, enter part or all of the building name along with the name of the architect or firm:

Example: To find resources on a particular type of material, enter the name of the material along with the word "construction":

Examples: To find resources on a particular building style, element, or typology, enter the name of the style/type/element along with the word "architecture":

Search for design resources on a specific building type:

Search by style:

Search by element:

Building Materials Databases on the Web

Material District: Search this database of innovative design materials by material name, project, architect, manufacturer, or keyword. Requires free registration.

Building Code Resources on the Web

Many code-writing authorities publish up-to-date codes for free on the web! WU Libraries also has books on building codes available through the library catalog.

International Code Council International Building Code 2021

ADA Accessibility Guidelines for Buildings and Facilities: To ensure access to the built environment, the Americans with Disabilities Act requires the establishment of design criteria for the construction and alteration of facilities covered by the law.

CCR: California Code of Regulations (CCR), Title 24, also known as the
California Building Standards Code.

Los Angeles Department of Building and Safety Code Amendments

U.S. Dept. of Energy Building Energy Codes: set minimum requirements for energy-efficient design and construction for new and renovated buildings that impact energy use and emissions for the life of the building.