Convertible Houses

by Amanda ; Thomas, Amy Lam

Convertible Houses Amanda Lam and Amy Thomas Convertible Houses shows how to use creative design, flexible space planning, and convertible devices to make every inch in your home work harder! Showcasing dozens of examples of "convertible" design, authors Amanda Lam and Amy Thomas illustrate the principles of multipurpose living that enable dwellers to enjoy more functionality in a finite amount of space. Learn the most successful strategies employed by architects, designers, and homeowners, with chapters devoted to specific devices in action, such as sliding walls, removable partitions, and enveloping curtains. Features 12 projects that exemplify the concept of flexible living-from foldaway kitchens to offices that double as bedrooms. Information on the architect or firm, the design philosophy, how the occupant and architect worked together, inspiration for the design, and solutions provided. Projects located in New York, London, Paris, Tokyo, Toronto, Hong Kong, Brazil, and more. How to create more function in every space with convertible devices such as movable walls, platforms and mezzanines, curtain walls, indoor/outdoor rooms, multiuse rooms, convertible furniture, and more. Budget-conscious solutions for any type of home, plus an extensive resource section. Writers Amanda Lam and Amy Thomas are very familiar with trying to get the most comfortable living accommodations and the most practical working arrangements out of their small New York City apartments. Thomas writes about everything from local design to international travel for publications such as CITY, Bust, Lucky, Metro newspaper and others. Lam honed her love for design and architecture during her time as the managing editor of CITY, a national lifestyle and design magazine.

192 pages, Hardcover

First published April 9, 2007

Reviews

[Rachel · Rating 2 out of 5]

Not really helpful for an existing space, unless you're gutting and working with an architect to build moveable walls or custom built-ins.

[Max Pietsch · Rating 5 out of 5]

I just browsed through the book at my doctor's office, but it was fascinating to read the photo captions and get ideas on different unique ways a home could be designed.

[Donna · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great book of interior design photos to help you think "small and efficient" with regard to your living quarters.

[Amanda · Rating 5 out of 5]

:)

[Darrell · Rating 3 out of 5]

coffee table version of a dwell magazine supplement
nice photos
some good ideas