Residential Books

Barnard's classic, now back in print, is not only a decorating book, but also an encyclopedia of ethnic textiles, their history, and their care. Every page is filled with gorgeous color photographs of the use of textiles in settings from the American southwest (Navaho blankets) to London (Middle Eastern Kilims) to Paris (African Kuba cloth). Items from hats (Afghani) to huipils (Guatamala) are shown framed, used as furniture coverings, made into pillows, or just hung imaginativly on a wall. I am delighted to find it back in print in a soft cover version. Each time I've loaned out my precious hardbound copy (and then only to special people), I have made SURE I got it back. A must-have for anyone who loves textiles, and at a ridiculously low price given the size of the volume and its plentiful illustrations.

Origins of many of the syles we see today can be found in, "The Chair." Elizabeth Wilhide takes the reader into an era of design where form was expressive, as well as functional. Renowned designers are highlighted, including information about their lives, & structural information about their works without over loading the reader. The chairs are displayed and photographed in settings that are visually intriguing to a designer or a casual reader. A fun, interesting, and informative book.

Very happy with this book - very large pictures, no boring text, lots of examples of Lofts. Inspiration for anyone interested in loft design. Book is very large and heavy, arrived slightly bent in the corners due to rough handling in shipping.

Big, hardcover book about different lofts in Scandinavia. Photos are good and it has even floor plans for some lofts in the last chapter. Lofts they presents in this book are big and in loft-spirit some of them are made spaces which we're first place designated for something else. Recommended!

An excellent resource for a design and non design individual,especially for those that intend to live in loft spaces. Great photographs that have been professionally presented, Exquisite use of space in their design samples.

We often romanticize about the small cabin in the woods, by the lake, or atop a mountain- the home that is in tune with nature. ~Robbin Obomsawin

The first time I saw a log cabin it was love at first sight. One of my best gal friends from college is always dreaming of having her brother build her a log cabin. I'm dreaming of visiting her and sipping hot chocolate by a fireplace and catching up on her travels to Russia. The wish to live in a log cabin may be inspired by a romantic weekend or a trip to a friend's house in the woods.

In "Log Cabin Classics" old-world cabins are inspired by nostalgic moments, a desire to be in harmony with nature and local materials.

You will find information on Cabin Fever, Building Small Cabins, Second Homes, Planning Strategies, Risks and Problems, Budgeting and Construction Contracts, Reclaiming Wood and Building with Nature.

The author, Robbin Obomsawin is the construction manager and general contractor for Beaver Creek Log Homes. She has an in-depth knowledge of conventional construction and lives in Westdale, New York.

Robbin displays not only a intricate knowledge of log cabin construction, she is a deft writer who displays a true love of natural surroundings and nature escapes.

If you are looking for decorating ideas, there are quite a few and full-color pictures display various settings. There are house plans complete with ideas for wraparound kitchens and bedroom lofts. I love the cozy bedrooms and rocking chairs placed near fireplaces.

Bonus: You can also order blueprints from Beaver Creek Log Homes. There is also a list of resources to help you plan your building project.

~The Rebecca Review

The use of logs in constructing classic lodges and cabins are enduringly popular structures with the American public. Log Spirit shows the home building and remodeler that by adding architectural details (stairs, lofts, and doors) can transform any dwelling into a cozy log haven that will feed the spirit, enrich the soul, and provide an architectural style that is quiet, simple, and minimal. Beautifully illustrated throughout with impressive, full color photography, Linda White covers all aspects of architectural design including walls, roof systems, windows, doors, porches, posts and beams, starts, lofts, railings, stonework, nooks and crannies, and "special effects". A wonderful book for simple browsing, Log Spirit will prove an invaluable resource for ideas and information on log home building and detailing.

If you enjoy walking around London, this is a "must" book to have. Written in clear and concise language, the history of London's East End is made available to the reader by the unbelievable buildings that still survive. There's also attention paid to modern additions, such as the Docklands area. All in all, a great reference book that one rely on and build upon.

I have to first say thank you to the author for giving us this exhaustively researched book. I expecially appreicated that the house was most always pictured with the description. The historical B&W photos are great. The book also lets you know if the house is still in extant, that is KEY in a book of this kind. I was amazed at how many survived and saddened at those that didn't. Your heart will pound as you look down to read if the beautiful house you are looking at survived. I think it is sad that so many know about the great houses of Newport and the Hudson River Valley, but forget about the greatest collection of all: The Gold Coast of Long Island. I hope if this book does nothing else,it makes developers think for a second before tearing down history. We will never see houses in America like this again. Job well done, indeed.

This book had a poignant feel because none of the historic homes featured still exist, but it was well-written and a work of love. The author's research was exhaustive, photos that were available of these homes were used whenever possible and the stories and histories behind these grand homes were enlightening. A definite read if you love the Old South and its faded glory.