Beginning with the Pantheon in Rome, Italian Pavements: Patterns in Space compares and contrasts pavements of every epoch up to the present century. Overall pavement layouts are discussed with respect to the historical moment in which they were conceived. Possible alternatives are discussed to underscore the capacity of patterns to focus the spectator's attention and direct his movement. Individual pattern details are examined in terms of graphic design, proportions, materials and techniques.

In order to study pavements, Kim Williams surveyed architectural monuments in all regions of Italy. The precisely scaled, hand-colored renderings that illustrate this work reveal the pavements with a level of detail not attainable in any other medium. Many of the pavements have never been documented before.