Do You See a Pattern? An architectural theorist who has inspired smart-growth advocates, counterculture DIY-ers, and computer programmers.

(Witold Rybczynski) ... Alexander argued that the standardized, mass-produced way in which buildings are designed and built today is wrongheaded, and to demonstrate an alternative he started to build himself-houses in Mexico, institutional buildings in Northern California, eventually an entire university campus in Japan-to date more than 200 projects. Alexander often uses decorative patterns derived from his intimate familiarity with Oriental carpets, which gives his buildings a handmade quality. While quite beautiful, his built work has received less attention than his books. Traditional in appearance-some of it reminds me of the Swedish painter/builder Carl Larsson-it is not witty enough for Postmodernists, not historic enough for die-hard Classicists, and too traditional for the architectural mainstream. Continued

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