Small and Simple

Are you thinking about downsizing and moving to a smaller space or just fixing up an old one?  Browse through some wonderfully useful floor plans and home designs in Compact Houses : 50 Creative Floor Plans for Well-designed Small Homes by Gerald Rowan. You will be surprised at how well efficient yet open designs can complement each other. Even if you’re just looking for DIY project ideas—this book is loaded with constructive, practical information.The homes are suitable for various locations and family sizes. The author has owned and renovated over 60 small homes and cabins and taught art, architecture and design for over 30 years.  DB

Beautiful Buildings

Take an armchair tour this fall!  Great Architecture of Michigan by John Gallagher and Balthazar Korab takes you on an architectural tour around the state. Designers like Frank Lloyd Wright, Albert Kahn and Philip Johnson are featured in more than 150 buildings. The buildings range in age from pre-civil war to modern day. Information includes not only the architect, but location and a history of the building as well.  This is an enjoyable and informative book. DB

Written in stone...

The 4^th of July and fireworks have put me into a patriotic frame of mind. I loved watching the celebrations with various memorial buildings in the background. I enjoyed the old American songs and the many references to historical events and places. While many of us have visited Gettysburg and the Statue of Liberty, some have to rely on other sources to get there. Monuments: America’s History in Art and Memory by Judith Dupre is a wonderful guide. Many significant American monuments are featured in this book.  Location, designer and dedication information are also listed. For a monumental look at American history, give it a try. DB