For thousands of Americans, catalogs such as Sears' Modern Homes were the first step in realizing their dreams of owning a home. Reproduced from a rare 1913 edition, this volume features 112 designs for homes of "comfort and refinement." These authentic plans offer a wealth of information on building materials and other details, along with external views, floor plans, descriptions with prices, and more. Antique collectors, home hobbyists, and fans of traditional design will find this book a bountiful resource for valuable tips on building and restoration.
I loved this book. The prices were fascinating. The number of people that took the time to write to a company to express thanks and compliments was surprising. Some houses didn't have bathrooms and one even had a maid room (the maid was given a 8'x10' cupboard off the kitchen) and the use of 'chambers' instead of 'bedrooms' added to the quaint feel.
And, as I was reading, I kept thinking of my in-laws. They had ordered their home as a kit and my mother-in-law told me once that she wished they could have afforded an extra $100 because it would have paid for a garage.