Wegelin presents an introduction to everyday building construction as practiced in southern Africa, from drawing practice, contours and stormwater, materials science and properties, energy conscious construction, masonry house construction, foundations, construction in reinforced concrete, steel and timber, roofs, joinery and external elements. Topics are introduced with a historical review and are lavishly illustrated with photos, maps and drawings. This book introduces the relationship between construction technology and design, essential knowledge for architects, building designers, builders and even building clients.

Wegelin fluently leads the reader into everyday building construction as practiced in Southern Africa; from drawing practice, contours and stormwater, materials science and properties, energy conscious construction, masonry house construction, foundations, construction in reinforced concrete, steel and timber, roofs, joinery and external elements.

Topics are explained within historical context and are richly illustrated with photos, maps and drawings. The Relationship between construction technology and design is outlined, providing essential knowledge for students of architecture and the general public.

This popular source book is prescribed at educational institutions throughout South Africa.