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Must Read Novels for All Architects!

written by

Team Kaarwan

As architects, we have a nearly endless succession of connections to make, from materials to geography to time, to people, to experiences and statements of our own beliefs, all coming together in the design of a space. Novels are therefore a great way to remind yourself of the creative possibilities that architecture holds, encouraging you to dream about what architecture could be; and what experiences could be.


These 7 novels each have their own qualities that could open up the architectural world and provide you with an enjoyable reading list in your time-off. Enjoy!


1. The Fountain Head, by Ayn Rand

In this book, Ayn Rand forces you to think deeply about communicating your beliefs on what is of importance in this world, through architecture.

the fountain head 1234.jpegImage Source: Mighty Ape

2. The Architecture of Happiness, by Alain de Botton

This book is an illustrated journey through the philosophy and psychology of architecture and the connection between our identities and our locations.

labiblioteka architectuere of happiness.png

Image Source: google books

3. The Little Prince, by Antoine de Saint-Exupery

This book is known for looking beyond the world at first glance and reminding us of what’s important to people, relationships, and a healthy psyche

The little prince – Antoine de saint-exupery novel.jpg

Image Source: google books

4. The God of Small Things, by Arundhati Roy

This book pays intense attention to the smaller things in life, how they connect to bigger things, and understanding their deep relationship. The god of small things – Arundhati Roy novel.jpg

Image Source: google books

5. The Aleph and Other Stories, by Jorge Luis Borges

This book twists reality but opens up to the potential evolution of our experiences and the perception of space, for unimaginable spaces.

The Aleph and other stories – Jorge Luis Borges novel.jpgImage Source: Amazon

6. The Eyes of the Skin, by Juhani Pallasmaa

This book argues that the suppression of our sensory realms, other than sight, has led to the overall impoverishment of our built environment.

The eyes of the skin - Juhani Pallasmaa novel.jpgImage Source: Copyright Bookshop

7. The Poets of Space, by Gaston Bachelard

This book has been a muse to architects, writers, psychologists, philosophies, and readers to find a metaphor in the intimate spaces of our homes.

The poets of space – Gaston Bachelard novel2.jpgImage Source: Good Reads

Team Kaarwan

Team Kaarwan

Since graduating from IIT Roorkee, we've been on a mission to democratize education through affordable online and offline workshops and courses. These equip students with architecture industry-relevant skills, boosting their employability across the Indian subcontinent.

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