American Framing: The Same Something for Everyone

Light timber framing, also known as "Chicago construction," was a practical and economical method of building that erased typological and class distinctions in the US, resulting in a culture of individuality and a high regard for novelty. This book explores the social, environmental, and architectural implications of this form of construction.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 252 pages
Publication date: 23 June 2023
Publisher: Park Books

From its humble beginnings in the heartland of the United States in the early 19th century, the technique of light timber framing, also known as "Chicago construction," swiftly emerged as a driving force behind the territorial and ideological expansion of the nation. This innovative method of construction, characterized by its practicality and accessibility, played a pivotal role in shaping the built environment that erased traditional typological and class distinctions. The affordability and ease of assembly of softwood materials resulted in a homogeneous landscape where no amount of money could buy a superior 2 x 4. This paradoxical sameness, however, is at the core of the American culture of individuality, uniting all superficial differences. It has been both a cause and an effect of the country's unwavering admiration for novelty, standing in stark contrast to the assumption of stability often associated with architectural traditions.

American Framing is a captivating visual and textual exploration that delves into the social, environmental, and architectural implications of this pervasive construction method. It serves as a narrative that chronicles the American project, one that seeks to break free from tradition, prioritize economy over technical expertise, and embrace a relaxed notion of craftsmanship in the pursuit of something truly useful and novel—the formation of an architecture that empowers architecture itself.

Through a series of essays, photographs, and architectural drawings, American Framing offers a comprehensive examination of the historical, cultural, and technical aspects of light timber framing. It explores the ways in which this construction method has shaped the physical landscape of the United States, from the bustling cities to the rural countryside. It also examines the social and economic implications of this construction, highlighting the role it played in the development of working-class communities and the rise of suburbanization.

Moreover, American Framing delves into the architectural implications of light timber framing. It explores the ways in which this method has influenced the design and construction of buildings, from the simple bungalows of the early 20th century to the complex high-rises of the modern era. It examines the aesthetic and functional qualities of light timber framing, highlighting its ability to create warm, inviting spaces that are both functional and aesthetically pleasing.

In conclusion, American Framing is a thought-provoking exploration of the enduring influence of light timber framing on the shaping of the United States. It offers a rich and nuanced perspective on the social, environmental, and architectural conditions that have shaped this ubiquitous form of construction. Through its visual and textual content, American Framing invites readers to consider the broader implications of this construction method and its role in the ongoing narrative of American architecture.

Dimension: 300 x 210 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783038601951