Metaphoric Architecture focuses on a fundamental but often challenging part of the beginning design phases—how to take an abstract idea and transform it into a three-dimensional object, space, or building.

Through media experimentation, analysis of innovative case studies, and hands-on exercises, Abrams guides the reader through the early stages of design, which include site and precedent analysis, among other initial approaches. To comprehend design thinking, the visual arts, music, and film are examined in relation to architecture. Chapters demonstrate how abstract ideas, paintings, film, and music can be utilized in the spatial design process and transformed into habitable spaces. There are 22 exercises that increase in complexity to strengthen students’ abilities and promote the use of digital and manual representation in a back-and-forth motion. With 444 illustrations, this book demystifies the process of designing 3D form and space in a highly visual way.

It will be the ideal studio companion for beginning and intermediate students of both architecture and interior design, with a wide range of architectural lessons that include abstraction, design fundamentals, concept development, building design, case study analysis, and site-to-building relationships.