With skills and insights gained from nearly fifty years of experience on three continents, Somvanshi offers an artfully formatted presentation of the eight phases of architectural planning practice. The text explores the detailed specifics of these phases, ranging from feasibility studies through design development and budgeting, then on through proposal, schematic design, site supervision, and the final construction processes, all highlighted by the objective of including social, environmental, and economic aspects important to the community. The author’s extensive experience includes the design and construction of public libraries, museums, public schools, high-rise condominiums, and private homes. The author “believes that the process of establishing the building—from concept through completion—must remain faithful to the design concept, adhere to planned construction technology, and be supported by the surrounding neighborhood community in their cities.”

This volume aspires to be a work of art and a comprehensive presentation of professional architectural procedures, and, in most regards, it succeeds. It is an attractive, artistically rendered text with many illustrations, photographs, graphics, and schematic designs. In a few areas, the narrative would be more effective with some additional editing in regard to grammar and syntax. Overall, though, this may be a relevant text for use in entry-level architectural classes and seminars to familiarize students with the point-by-point processes of the profession, and it covers some practical business functions as well. Students and potential students of architecture, as well as professionals in the preliminary stages of their careers, will find support in this step-by-step treatment of the “best practices” of professional architectural work.

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