Reviewed by Anne Boling for Readers' Favorite

Public Safety Architecture focuses on the safety of public buildings, particularly specialized buildings such as a jail, bank, or courthouse. The criterion the architect must meet includes: “security, survivability, community acceptance, technology, and the ever-evolving mission statement.” Public Safety Architecture is an in-depth look at the procedure the architect will utilize. It is a look at the explicit safety features of specific buildings.

One of the most important aspects in the planning, funding and obtaining of a Public Safety Facility is input from those utilizing the building. The architect must carefully consider the possibility of a natural disaster. Will the building withstand hurricane winds, tornadoes, or earthquakes? Does the building have adequate security? This is particularly important in jails, courthouses, etc. They must also consider man-made disasters. These are just a few of the features that must be considered. Individual room layouts show how to make the most of the space available. Use of energy must also be considered.

I, like most of the public, walk into a building and expect it to be safe, never giving a thought to the planning that went into protecting me. Public Safety Architecture was written by Architects Design Group. They bring their vast knowledge and experience to this book, a how-to guide. While it is written in an easy to understand manner, this book will benefit students and professionals. The cover and title fit this book well, hinting at what lies inside. The layout is well organized and there are many photographs to illustrate points. The author includes photos of blue prints and buildings. I found the chapter on Correctional Facilities of particular interest.