American Houses: A Field Guide to the Architecture of the Home

by Gerald Foster

A definitive overview of American domestic architecture ranges from the domiciles of Native American cultures and early colonial structures to the present day, analyzing the cultural, geographical, and historical origins of each style; describing the construction methods involved and the link between form and functions; and examining both interior floor plans and exterior views. Simultaneous.

Genres: Architecture, Reference, Nonfiction, History

384 pages, Paperback

First published March 1, 2004

Reviews

[Janie O · Rating 3 out of 5]

Excellent history of the architecture of homes in North America mingled with history - why this floor plan for a particular region, a particular roof line, window styles... very interesting read.

[Matthew · Rating 5 out of 5]

Nice drawings, mostly isometric. Emphasis on colonial styles.

[Tristan Bridges · Rating 4 out of 5]

Amazing history of American architecture and how it evolved. Tara got me this for fathers' day and it's an incredible book. Foster not only discusses what the facades of homes looked like, but also their interiors - with tons of floor plans and more. It's really interesting. His understanding is that the form of a house follows its function. This may well have been true for a great deal of U.S. history - but I was left wondering where we are now - having inherited architectural forms from previous generations, but with new needs. Domestic architechture is less "state of the art" than is commercial architecture. So, many of us live in homes with a real history (with rooms like parlors for which we have no real need any longer). Still, fascinating and an amazing history. Incredible artwork throughout.

[Claudia · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is like a birder's "field guide". It contains details about and how to recognize all types of home architecture in the U.S. Also, has basic floor plans for each style. Really interesting if you "collect" houses.

[Juli Anna · Rating 3 out of 5]

A good basic guide, but I am looking forward to comparing it to Virginia McAlester's book. I found the glossary somewhat lacking, but enjoyed the somewhat snarky tone of the author when addressing certain contemporary housing trends.

[Ethan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Incredibly useful guide to suburban architecture in the U.S. Worth owning.

[Johanna · Rating 5 out of 5]

Well organized reference.

[Elnaz · Rating 3 out of 5]

http://www.goodreads.com/book/google_...

[Marie]

Back in the day, I read this at the library and I just want to own it someday (unfortunately, unlikely to be soon).

[Hillary · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a good reference guide, but certainly not exhaustive. The author seemed to focus almost exclusively on the East coast, the South, and the Southwest.