Overview
From tiny pit–houses in the Levant and Mesoamerica thousands of years ago to soaring skyscrapers in Dubai, New York, and Shanghai today, Dwelling on Earth takes readers on a swift and absorbing tour of the evolution of human habitation. Architectural historian and urban planner Stefan Al weaves together archaeology, engineering, social history, and environmental science to explain how our homes—the spaces in which we spend half our lives—developed through the ages and how they shaped civilization. Whisking readers from ancient Pompeii to contemporary Hong Kong, industrial–age Liverpool to postwar Levittown, Al shows how our choices in housing have both reflected and affected ideas about gender roles, privacy, and comfort. He explores architectural developments—like doorknockers, corridors, and insulation—and details how the quest for housing has had severe consequences for the environment. Finally, he examines the myths and reality of future housing, including 3D–printed homes and space architecture built by robots.
While major retailers like Amazon may carry Dwelling on Earth (The Past and Future of the Places We Call Home), we specialize in bulk book sales and offer personalized service from our friendly, book-smart team based in Portland, Oregon. We’re proud to offer a Price Match Guarantee and a streamlined ordering experience from people who truly care.
We’re trusted by over 75,000 customers, many of whom return time and again. Want proof? Just check out our 25,000+ customer reviews—real feedback from people who love how we do business.
Prefer to talk to a real person? Our Book Specialists are here Monday–Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. PST and ready to help with your bulk order of Dwelling on Earth (The Past and Future of the Places We Call Home).