Reddit reviews An Architectural Approach to Level Design

Chris Totten has an excellent book you may find helpful.

https://www.amazon.com/Architectural-Approach-Level-Design/dp/1466585412/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1502562900&sr=8-1&keywords=architectural+approach+to+level+design

https://www.amazon.com/Architectural-Approach-Level-Design/dp/1466585412/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1497126808&sr=8-1&keywords=architecture+of+level+design

I've not read it, but it's been cited several times by prominent level designers in the industry during talks. It is next on my reading list. I can recommend Totten's other book "Level Design: Processes and Experiences" which I'm half way through and is genuinely great.

It isn't an architecture book in the sense that it'll teach you architecture 101 on how buildings are designed. But it goes into solving practical "door problems" that both architects and level designers face, and how that relates to level design.

I've bought this one : https://www.amazon.com/Architectural-Approach-Level-Design/dp/1466585412/ref=sr_1_2?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1482021984&sr=1-2&keywords=level+design

I'm a beginner too, and this book is really complete. I think it's a must read.

I only designed levels for my latest game, a short 2D Metroidvania. Before beginning to do anything, I tried to come up with an idea of what I want the player to think/feel as he/she progresses through it. After I have a rough idea drew stuff on the paper. I consider all available mechanics while drawing the layout. Then I create the level in the editor and iterate from there. Also, I recommend reading this book: https://www.amazon.com/Architectural-Approach-Level-Design/dp/1466585412. It is especially useful for FPS and 3d games.

I haven't checked this book out yet but it might be helpful for you
https://www.amazon.com/dp/1466585412

This book has been really really helpful for me.

https://www.amazon.com/Architectural-Approach-Level-Design/dp/1466585412

I have had the same complaint, level design is often too loosey-goosey in the industry for someone like me.

Using architecture as a starting point for level design has been something of a revelation. These days I'm taking looks at random things..engines, lightswitch plates, building facades and seeing how they could be translated into different geometries for levels.

This book gives you a methodology for outlining and planning levels, similar to how you might outline and plan a script or a novel, breaking down design into discrete steps. It's somewhat complex but very helpful..it takes out a lot of the 'do it by feel' mantra you hear a lot in indie dev.

There is this one that I'm planning to buy and read but still haven't done.