About this ebook
THE NUMBER ONE INTERNATIONAL BESTSELLER
From one of our greatest voices in modern philosophy, author of The Course of Love and The School of Life, this book explores the fascinating hidden links between the buildings we live in and our long-term wellbeing.
'Engaging and intelligent . . . Full of splendid ideas, happily and beautifully expressed' Independent
What makes a house truly beautiful? Why are many new houses so ugly? Why do we argue so bitterly about sofas and pictures - and can differences of taste ever be satisfactorily resolved?
To answer these questions and many more, de Botton looks at buildings across the world, from medieval wooden huts to modern skyscrapers; he examines sofas and cathedrals, tea sets and office complexes, and teases out a host of often surprising philosophical insights. The Architecture of Happiness will take you on a beguiling tour through the history and psychology of architecture and interior design, and will change the way you look at your home.
'Alain de Botton takes big, complex subjects and writes about them with thoughtful and deceptive innocence' Observer
'Clever, provocative and fresh as a daisy' Literary Review
From one of our greatest voices in modern philosophy, author of The Course of Love and The School of Life, this book explores the fascinating hidden links between the buildings we live in and our long-term wellbeing.
'Engaging and intelligent . . . Full of splendid ideas, happily and beautifully expressed' Independent
What makes a house truly beautiful? Why are many new houses so ugly? Why do we argue so bitterly about sofas and pictures - and can differences of taste ever be satisfactorily resolved?
To answer these questions and many more, de Botton looks at buildings across the world, from medieval wooden huts to modern skyscrapers; he examines sofas and cathedrals, tea sets and office complexes, and teases out a host of often surprising philosophical insights. The Architecture of Happiness will take you on a beguiling tour through the history and psychology of architecture and interior design, and will change the way you look at your home.
'Alain de Botton takes big, complex subjects and writes about them with thoughtful and deceptive innocence' Observer
'Clever, provocative and fresh as a daisy' Literary Review
Ratings and reviews
4.3
9 reviews
Peter Waters
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March 21, 2016
One of the most eye-opening books I've ever read. His writing style is eloquent yet still accessible and the ideas he brings up are genuinely brilliant. You won't look at the world the same way after reading this, and I know that sounds tacky but it's true.
3 people found this review helpful
About the author
Alain de Botton is the bestselling author of fifteen books, including The School of Life: An Emotional Education, How Proust Can Change Your Life, The Consolations of Philosophy, The Art of Travel and The Course of Love. He is the founder of The School of Life (theschooloflife.com).
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