The history of the architectural guidebook and the development of an architectural information system

Abstract

This is a study of the history of the architectural guidebook, and a proposal for an architectural information system which utilizes a relational database system to aid in the creation of future architectural guides. Chapter 1 explores the reasons why individuals may choose to visit buildings. Chapters 2 and 3 trace the history of the architectural guidebook through the development of travel writing from the Greeks to the present day. Chapter 4 provides an analysis of various characteristics of architectural guides since 1900, and explores the use of descriptions, images, and maps, as well as how guides subdivide the areas which they deal with. Chapter 5 introduces the reader to relational databases and examines how the present relational database system was constructed; chapter 5 also includes several proposals for a future architectural guide based on the analysis of previous guides contained in chapters 2 through 4.