general

I have a degree in architecture and master's degree in historic preservation. For the first time I am teaching at LA Tech University, school of Architecture in Ruston, LA a seminar about American Houses or American domestic architecture. When I found this book I knew that this is exactly what I needed it for text book because it contains all American houses styles from Native American until about 1980's. My students, who all bought the book, are very content about the seminar and the book,of course!

Of the several dozen books I own of American house styles, this is the only book that systematically breaks down every American house style from the Native American tipi to Modern architecture. For every style, it gives the two critcal elements of architecture, the form/shape of the houses and their details. As a land developer, I use this book as a pattern book for the design criteria of homes built in my neighborhoods - every homeowner gets a copy! This is truly the bible of American house styles.

A very useful reference, even for those (like me) just starting to understand different styles of homes. My only gripes: more photos, color photos, and more specific information on the photos would be more useful.