Architecture of Happiness

THE NUMBER ONE INTERNATIONAL BESTSELLER n n From one of our greatest voices in modern philosophy, author of The Course of Love, The Consolations of Philosophy, Religion for Atheists and The School of Life n n The Architecture of Happiness explores the fascinating hidden links between the buildings we live in and our long-term wellbeing n n 'Engaging and intelligent... Full of splendid ideas, happily and beautifully expressed' Independent n n 'Alain de Botton takes big, complex subjects and writes about them with thoughtful and deceptive innocence' Observer n n 'Clever, provocative and fresh as a daisy' Literary Review n n What makes a house truly beautiful? Why are many new houses so ugly? Why do we argue so bitterly about sofas and pictures - and can differences of taste ever be satisfactorily resolved? n n To answer these questions and many more, de Botton looks at buildings across the world, from medieval wooden huts to modern skyscrapers; he examines sofas and cathedrals, tea sets and office complexes, and teases out a host of often surprising philosophical insights. The Architecture of Happiness will take you on a beguiling tour through the history and psychology of architecture and interior design, and will change the way you look at your home. n