Book Description
With a little imagination and creativity--and without hiring a professional--almost anyone can transform a small living space into a comfortable and stylish environment. Whether decorating a dorm room, an apartment, or a little cottage, what we strive for is a look and feel that expresses our individual personalities. Part style guide, part idea sourcebook, this handy volume--designed to meet the needs of real people with real budgets--is packed with smart ideas, basic design principles, and enough inspiration to get you off the sofa to make it happen.
In her lively, informative text, design guru Marisa Bartolucci takes readers inside 33 small homes from cities across the U.S. to reveal how a strong sense of style--rather than design know-how or unlimited resources--is the most effective tool for transforming an ordinary cramped living space into a smart yet functional private sanctuary.
Customer Reviews:
Lots of inspiration.......2007-09-22
Love the way the book shows apartments of varying small sizes and multiple solutions for small-space dilemmas (like little room for sleeping, tiny kitchens). I was able to brainstorm a solution for my own apartment after one look through this book.
My only complaint is that there are no product resources listed--just designers' names and contact information.
Fabulousity on a budget.......2007-06-01
Well, I guess I'll add my voice to the chorus of reviewers for this book:
This is a jewel of a book. Lots of fabulous examples of small spaces with a lot of character. People who love art, collect books and appreciate unexpected decorating ideas will enjoy this book."
A lovely book that could use a bit of fine-tuning to best serve its intended readership.......2007-04-06
I really liked this book, but it only gets 4 out of 5 stars because I think the definition of "small spaces" is too broad. This book would be better if it showcased twice as many spaces from 100-600sqf, rather than going all the way up to 1000. Maybe for people who don't live in cities, 1000sqf is tiny, but I think a lot of the book's target audience would find that amount of space to be truly palatial. Many of the larger spaces had yards or terraces, sometimes doubling the real amount of living space, so that feels like a "cheat" to me. I got the most ideas out of the first half of the book, and the rest of the book was enjoyable as a general interior design book rather than a "small spaces" design book. Many of the featured homes' remodels involve knocking out walls and really re-working a space, so if you're a renter looking for what you can do with a small space you don't own, you might be disappointed. All in all, a very nice book with wonderful photographs, I just wish there was a greater focus on spaces under 600sqf, and more creative rentals being showcased for readers who are renters.
Really small spaces!.......2007-03-26
A small but pretty coffee table book with great content and some good ideas for living in tiny, tiny spaces.
1) 16 of the 33 profiled spaces were 500 sq ft or less! The other 17 were 600 - 1000 sq ft in size. I haven't seen many books on small space living that focus on this size range. Most books seem to present 2000 sqft houses as tiny.
2) The owners of these spaces didn't all have an unlimited budget. Many were in rentals so gut renovations, moving walls, etc was not an option. Many did have expensive or design worthy furniture and art but quite a few were heavily furnished with IKEA and thrift store finds.
3) Most of the owners had to be very carefull with clutter and picking pieces that would work in the space and that they really loved. Some of the other Amazon reviews found this to be somewhat unrealistic but I think that when you live in such small spaces, you are going to have to keep things very neat and tidy.
4) Part of the title is "expressing personal style". There is plenty of that in the book mostly clustered around what I'll call "modern" (eams etc), "drama" (red, red everywhere), "eclectic" (high design items mixed with garage sale items) and "standard" (danish). Many of the owners have extensive collections that are well presented and show off their unique personal style.
5) Most of these places are inhabited by: architects, artists, interior decorators, makeup artists, writers, curators, floral designers, etc. Essentially those who are in the "profession". I got the impression that hiring someone is de rigur if you are an accountant or fireman.
6) I liked the organization of the book by size of the space, architectural diagram of the space, lots of well shot photos, a narrative of who the residents are and how the space came to be and a picture of the residents.
7) One of my favorites were Francisco Parod and Ximena Orozco, the couple from Mexico living in a 450sqft NY apartment...with a baby! Not only did it look comfortable and open, they furnished almost everything at IKEA. My other favorite was Karen Meyer. She had translucent screens that could slide between the living room and dining room. This provided flexibility to the spaces by making it more expansive or more private, as needed. A murphy bed that was behind a shelf unit in the dining room could be opened up to create a guest room. A nice example of rooms doing double duty.
All in all, the best book I've found for realistic ideas for very small spaces.
Living Large in Small Spaces.......2007-03-19
Although I was not overwhelmed with inspiration, I liked the set-up of this book. The spaces are grouped by square footage complete with pictures of all areas of the space and a floor plan so that you can visualize how the spaces fit together. I also liked the fact that there were various design styles. However, I could not visualize myself living in the majority of the spaces displayed in this book. The majority of the homes displayed were homes of designers and artists. Since I myself am not a designer or an artist, I could and would not begin to design like what was displayed in this book.
Book Description
Building small can be a sign of higher ambitions, and those who take the time to peruse these pages will undoubtedly grow to appreciate that creating a small home can be an amazingly positive and creative act, one which can enhance life in surprising ways. The Very Small Home presents stunning design advances in Japan. Eighteen recent houses, from ultramodern to Japanese rustic, are explored in depth. Particular emphasis is given to what the author call the Big Idea-the overarching concept that does the most to make the house feel more spacious than it actually is. Among the Big Ideas introduced here are ingenious sources of natural light, well-thought-out atriums, snug but functional kitchens, unobtrusive partitions, and free-flowing circulation paths. An introduction by the author puts the house designs in the context of lifestyle trends, and highlights their shared characteristics. For each project, the intentions of the designers and occupants are examined. The result is a very human sensibility that runs through the book. A glimpse of the dreams and aspirations that these unique homes represent and that belies their apparent modesty. The second half of the book is devoted to illustrating the special features in the homes, from clever storage and kitchen designs, to ingenious skylights and nooks. As with his earlier Small Spaces, Azby Brown has given home owners, designers, and architects a fascinating new collection of thought-provoking ideas.
Customer Reviews:
Small Book
< Top Review.......2007-07-15
Interesting book well written, good details and good pictures, an insperation to those who seek some good ideas in looking as space saving ideas.
you'll want one of these houses.......2007-06-15
gorgeous and inspired houses. the creativity will amaze you ^_^
you will probably be jealous of the people who actually live in the houses in the book.
1700sqft are BIG and luxurious in Hong Kong.......2007-04-18
"Small" is a matter of perspective, especially if you live in a 700sqft apartment and expect to get some ideas to use in small 300-450sqft apartments on Hong Kong Island.
It's ok but not to Canadian code.......2007-04-04
The book is full of ideas but most not really practical when it comes to code and fire safety issues in canada. I was expecting more out of this book.......... slightly dissapointing.
Very Interesting.......2007-03-14
Japanese design is different to Western design in terms of living requirements.
I now have a much deeper understanding of the creation of small living spaces that work well rather than building bigger for re-sale or convention.
Hopefully, my own home (when built) will be an east-west fusion that I will enjoy for a long time.
This book is part of my collection on 'small home' design and one which I return to when I need to remind myself about scaling down.
Book Description
Simplicity, modesty, and skillful design are the principles that have guided James Gauer both in his architectural practice and in the selection of the seventeen outstanding projects in this unique collection of small homes by architects around the country. A wide range of housing types and settings—from a diminuative New York City apartment to a farmhouse in Pennsylvania, a cottage in Santa Monica, and a single-family home in Nashville—illustrates a variety of architectural styles and design solutions that have transformed these small spaces into comfortable, stylish, cost and energy-effecient residences. More than a how-to style guide, this volume features a wide range of of housing types from 475 to 2,100 square feet.
Customer Reviews:
Smaller is Better.......2005-01-04
The New American Dream is a marvelous pictoral essay presenting a well argued thesis for the superiority of small spaces. The breakdown of the book into sections which focus on specific aesthetic merits that small houses and apartments can provide is
extremely well articulated. It is so refreshing to be able enjoy a book on design that has a text worthy of its photographs.
Great ideas, beautiful photography.......2004-11-06
I bought this book at Strand Bookstore in New York because of the beautiful photography and details the author included about each featured home. I love that there is a movement (apparently) towards smaller homes. I'm originally from Houston, and the disgusting scale of houses in the suburbs is such a contrast to the wonderful buildings featured in this book.
The only problem I had was I felt that most of the dwellings featured were second homes. I would like to have seen more primary residences.
Book Description
How do you maximize living space in increasingly small and expensive apartments that are being built in cities around the country? This stunningly illustrated book reveals how renowned architects -- including Stephen Alton, SA Architects, David Hotson Architects, and Gary Schoemaker Architects -- have solved that problem in their designs for small apartments and lofts in New York, San Fransisco, Boston, and other major US cities where residential square footage is at a premium.
These design solutions focus on innovative, multifunctional uses within small spaces: a dining area by night, an office by day; living rooms that morph into party spaces or media rooms; and free-standing closets that conceal everything from kitchens, to beds, to work stations. The projects exhibit excellence in design, along with innovative use of materials and construction methods. Each case study includes interior and exterior photography by some of the finest architectural photographers working today, accompanied by design drawings that include site plans, details, and floor plans.
Customer Reviews:
Small apartments?.......2007-09-22
Although there are some interesting architectural and design ideas in this book, the apartments aren't small by any stretch of the imagination. All of the design is modern, as well--not enough variety to really provide inspiration.
If you're looking for a book on this topic, try "Living Large in Small Spaces," by Marisa Bartolucci. One look through that book, and I was able to brainstorm a solution for my living room that also has triple duty as a dining room and bedroom for my daughter when she's home from college.
James Grayson Trulove is my design hero.......2007-04-05
This author consistently turns out high-quality books, often related to small-space living. His narrative is very well done as well as the photography: goes beyond pretty pictures (although they are fine too). Mr. Trulove, if you are reading this, keep up the good work!
average.......2006-06-26
Average book.
Good pictures. Very few and low quality drawings,
Not a significant research source for architects...
Book Description
With just a little inspiration from Country Living’s successful series, anyone can turn a small and awkward space into an appealing, cozy corner.
Every home has its tiny room, oddly shaped hallway, empty landing, or other difficult-to-decorate area—but these innovative and quick approaches are the first step in turning neglected spaces into models of decorative style. The topics covered range from Themes and Collections to Perfecting Your Palette; some of the ideas are as simple as varying the sizes of objects in a display to create visual interest. Other concepts—such as creatively mixing formal and informal elements—will free home decorators from tired and dull design tenets and bring “fresh air” into any décor. Smart tips and easy, enjoyable projects help jump-start the transformation, while detailed captions for the photos and many sidebars reveal exactly how the job was accomplished.
A Selection of the Homestyle Book Club.
Book Description
The Smart Approach to Small-Space Living gives the small house, condo or apartment dweller professional advice for creating a beautiful, comfortable environment. Hundreds of gorgeous photographs amply illustrate the designer tips that will help readers overcome the constraints of designing for small spaces. The Smart Approach to Small-Space Living inspires and instructs how to live stylishly and comfortably in 2500 square feet or less.
Customer Reviews:
Handy Lil' Helper.......2007-06-25
I'm a college student that struggles with trying to keep a neat and orderly apartment, and having furniture that seems to be too large for my small rooms makes it kind of hard to keep a clean and organized appearance. I didn't know they made books on the subject of decorating and organizing small houses and apartments, until my best friend passed along this awesome book. Remember how I mentioned I had big furniture? Well it seems to work right with my small rooms now just by some juxtapositions of the furniture and simple modifications of the room. I didn't fully understand how the color of the walls could really change the appearance of a room's size, along with the patterns, lighting, and accents. Well now that my apartment looks cool and is highly functional, all I have to do is find a way to STAY organized.
Book Description
To maintain these trim, contemporary residences in fine style, you need the newest storage devices and cleverest space-saving solutions. TheyÂ're right here, in an indispensable guide. The ideas are many and fresh, from cupboard hideaways to loft areas. Every room is covered, with information on design layout and planning, a “recipe” for success, and checklists.
Customer Reviews:
Definately one to keep.......2007-05-09
This book has many wonderful images and lots of inspiration for your home. The only thing you might want to know is that the ideas are best for those who own their own condo or a small house. Renters might be inspired by this book but probably wouldn't be able to implement most of the ideas.
Small Spaces for Modern Living.......2007-03-19
I found the book very inspiring. The pictures in this book were meant as examples to push and inspire your imagine instead of taking a cookie cutter approach. The book also provides principles and strategies on how to implement your own ideas. However, the pictures provide primarily a modern and contemporary perspective for those of you who are die heart country chic or traditional.
Great Book with Good Ideas.......2007-01-29
We recently bought a new condo and found this book helpful in planning how to organize and arrange our new condo. Living in a big city we've always been strapped for space and the time needed to organize. I think Atkins does a good job giving advice on how to purge and ideas on how to maximize space. My only compliant about design guides (either this book or magazines) is that they tend to show spaces that rarely resembles the cookie-cutter condo look that you often buy into.
Small Spaces, major possibilities!.......2007-01-24
This book is fantastic! Unlike a lot of books on the market, it will really help you develop YOUR OWN space to suit YOUR OWN wants, needs, and taste.
The first few sections are devoted to helping you really examine your own living situation: What are your basic needs for your space? What are your not-so-basic needs and wants that will make your space suitable to you? Now, what have you got to work with? How is the space defined? What are your limitations on changing it? And, how would you like it to look? Atkins asks very clear cut questions that will help you evaluate what you and your home are capable of.
The next few sections are on basic design principles that work in any area. Use of color, lighting - both natural and artificial, furniture, and your own home's architectural features (doors, walls, windows) are explored.
Finally, every room in the home is given it's own chapter. Every nook and cranny is scrutinized for maximum use of space. From layout to furniture to walls and floors, there is helpful advice on EVERYTHING. Large, colorful photos and examples abound; and there are even case studies that show a room and explain why and how it works.
There are a few things about this book that I think put it above others in the same category. First, it really does help you evaluate what YOU are capable of in your own space. Second, there are helpful hints in the sidebars on nearly every page, which can be quickly referenced time and time again. And third, it covers areas that are often overlooked by other design books, such as hallways, stairs, and the occasional terrace.
For someone who can only afford a new coat of paint to those about to take on a major renovation, anyone can and will find some useful advice in Small Spaces for Modern Living.
A comprehensive look at designing for small spaces.......2005-01-23
Over the years I've collected quite a few books on designing for small spaces. What I really like about this title is that it combines the best features from the wide array of books available on this subject matter. It doesn't just present you with intriguing ideas and cool photographs; it also provides important design concepts, so you truly understand the design solutions presented. The book starts with assessing and planning your space, then discusses a variety of applicable design styles (rather than just the often-sterile, minimalist/modern look so many books feature!), room-by-room ideas, and options for special circumstances (such as an attic or galleried space). The book is also laid out very well and is a joy to read and reread. My only complaint is that I wish there were photos of every idea mentioned!
Average customer rating:
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Living: In Small Spaces
Manufacturer: Loft Publications
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback
 General
| Architecture
| Professional & Technical
| Subjects
| Books
General
| Interior Design
| Architecture
| Professional & Technical
| Subjects
| Books
General
| Interior Design
| Home & Garden
| Subjects
| Books
ASIN: 8495832836 |
Book Description
Is a large canvas really necessary to paint a masterpiece? The obvious answer would be that the size of the canvas and the brilliance of a work of art bear no relation. Does this also apply to interior design? Is a creative, elegant and cozy design possible in a 30-40m2 apartment? This book proves that it is. The continuous downsizing of urban apartments has lead to the search for new interior design solutions making the most of the available space, the sources of natural light and storage space. Interior designers have had to adapt to the new reality and have applied resources almost never used in bigger housing. The final result is a philosophy of life based on the small, flexible and adaptable. Not only has the size of our apartments changed, but with it our lifestyle.
Average customer rating:
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Small Living Spaces
Carles Broto
Manufacturer: Gingko Press
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback
General
| Architecture
| Professional & Technical
| Subjects
| Books
Residential
| Building Types & Styles
| Architecture
| Professional & Technical
| Subjects
| Books
Materials
| Architecture
| Professional & Technical
| Subjects
| Books
General
| Home Design
| Home & Garden
| Subjects
| Books
General
| Interior Design
| Home & Garden
| Subjects
| Books
ASIN: 8489861145 |
Books:
- Mary Emmerling's Quick Decorating: Fast and Easy Projects for Every Room of the House (American Country Series)
- Natural Born Charmer
- New Millennium Reader, The (4th Edition)
- Organizing from the Right Side of the Brain: A Creative Approach to Getting Organized
- Patternmaking for Fashion Design (4th Edition)
- Planet Earth: As You've Never Seen It Before
- Planning and Design of Airports, 4/e
- Planning and Installing Photovoltaic Systems: A Guide for Installers, Architects and Engineers
- Psychoanalytic Diagnosis: Understanding Personality Structure in the Clinical Process
- Richard Meier: The Getty Center
Books Index
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Small Spaces: Good Ideas
