Arts & Architecture Volume 11-12 (Paperback)

This historic book may have numerous typos and missing text. Purchasers can download a free scanned copy of the original book (without typos) from the publisher. Not indexed. Not illustrated. 1916 Excerpt: ...that it is the most efficient. This especially is true in buildings, and while ornamentation and elaboration, when properly added, without doubt enhance the value and appearance of a structure, much good money has been wasted trying to make an elaborate appearing building which has fallen far short in every other manner. When money is not available, it is without question, better far to construct a plainer and more serviceable building than to make an effort to produce a showy exterior. Even the plainest building can be made to appear attractive, serviceable and efficient though it may lack the show of misspent money. The writer at this time is employed to superintend extensive repairs on a building apparently erected mainly for show. Now the hard-earned money of the taxpayers must be spent a second time to do over poorly and cheaply performed work. Leaky roofs, gutters, windows, skylights, falling plaster as well as many other annoying as well as serious defects have appeared in this practically new building. One especially noticeable feature of wasted money is in the enormous highpitched roof with gables, dormers and ridges containing enough wasted space to comfortably take care of half the entire building, so poorly constructed that new AUDITORIUM trusses have to be installed to keep the ceiling from collapsing. Such a building is not efficient, not economical, and is a menace to the health and life of teachers and pupils. Schools for the small towns and coun-try can be built which will be efficient, comfortable and of good architecture, every dollar being expended where it will do the most good. But good material, well and properly put together, must be used. This article is supposed to be on a type of small schools suitable for grammar and high schools...