Have you ever walked down a historic street and wondered about the stories those houses could tell? America's architectural landscape is a rich tapestry of styles, each telling a story about our nation's history, culture, and evolution. But without the right guide, these buildings remain mysterious facades rather than windows into the past.
For decades, A Field Guide to American Houses has been the trusted reference for understanding domestic architecture across the United States. Now in its fully revised second edition, this comprehensive guide offers everything you need to identify and appreciate the diverse styles that define American neighborhoods. From Colonial farmhouses to Victorian gems, from Craftsman bungalows to Modern masterpieces, you'll learn to recognize the distinctive features that make each style unique.
This updated version includes 600 new photographs and line drawings that bring architectural details to life. You'll find expanded sections on neighborhoods and completely new categories of house styles, ensuring you're getting the most current information available. The appendix covering construction approaches from the 20th and 21st centuries provides valuable context for understanding how building techniques have evolved over time.
Whether you're a homeowner curious about your own house's history, a real estate professional looking to better understand property values, or simply someone who appreciates beautiful buildings, this guide becomes your personal architecture expert. Keep it in your car for neighborhood walks, or display it proudly on your coffee table as both a practical reference and conversation starter.
This field guide transforms ordinary observations into meaningful connections with the built environment around you. The next time you pass that Queen Anne Victorian or that Prairie-style home, you'll see it not just as a building, but as a piece of America's architectural heritage waiting to be understood and appreciated.
