Book excerpt: "Andrea Palladio's works - the Basilica, Palazzo Chiericati, and Villa Rotonda in Vicenza; Villa Cornaro in Piombino Dese; the Redentore Church in Venice; and numerous other buildings - have never ceased to attract the attention of architects, historians, and the general public. Arguably the most influential Renaissance architect, Palladio and his works have been examined in countless publications. In this book, Branko Mitrovic rethinks traditionally held views of Palladio's design theory. He explores Palladio's approach to spatial composition, facade design, detailing, proportions, and use of the classical orders; discusses Platonist influences in Palladio's design; and uncovers pertinent aspects of Palladio's design procedures and methodology. Mitrovic provides a synthesis of earlier Palladian scholarship and emphasizes the importance of the history of design theory to the understanding of the architectural works of the part. Finally, he offers an insightful view of the application of Palladio's Renaissance design principles in twenty-first-century architecture, inspiring, through Palladianism, the architecture of the future." "Nearly 200 photographs and illustrations show-case a broad selection of Palladian structures and styles, supplemented by digital renderings, views, and site plans. Throughout, Mitrovic's comprehensive study reveals what architectural historians, practicing architects, and students can learn from Palladio today."--Jacket.