Dreaming Small: Intimate Interiors

by Douglas Woods, Melba Levick (Photographer)

The masterpieces of small-house living featured here will serve as inspiration to those who struggle with the challenges presented by contemporary life in petite-size homes. Dreaming Small is a celebration of jewel-box homes, each marked by a sense of style that marries eclecticism, practicality, beauty, and livability. From quintessential bungalows and classic casas to Tudor fantasies, these delightful abodes are models of rich diversity and inspired living. In brilliant new photography, the book explores the possibilities that exist in these mostly unpublished gems by legendary architects Irving Gill, Richard Neutra, Rudolph Schindler, and Paul R. Williams, among others. The houses, each under two thousand square feet, are examples of what is possible in the small house and offer the reader a colorful palette of ideas from which to artfully transform spaces into comfortable, contemporary living.

Some homes featured here are period-perfect time capsules, harkening back to the ‘20s, ‘30s, and ‘40s, while others embrace the new and are entirely of today. All are a testament to how a well-designed house can wonderfully serve the needs of the twenty-first century. In an age where many are downsizing, this book will be welcomed. While showcasing a mix of homes, it emphasizes light, bright, and inspiring interiors that are beyond distinct architectural styles. The trend of reviving old houses will continue to grow steadily, and this book will be inspirational for those looking to do it right.

Genres: Nonfiction

240 pages, Hardcover

First published March 4, 2014

Reviews

[Ambur Taft · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fantastic spaces with some awesome little details....some especially lovely doors.

[Marilyn · Rating 3 out of 5]

Pretty pictures

[Martha · Rating 3 out of 5]

There was a lot more to this book than gorgeous California houses, though it was the photos that caught my eye and made me want to check it out of the library. Though most of the homes included seemed to be ridiculously, perfectly staged, the background information on the dwellings was fascinating, putting these lovely interiors and exteriors in their historical context. A good balance of text and photos which make for an enjoyable armchair tour.

[Tracy · Rating 3 out of 5]

I like looking inside homes just to see what they look like-how rich people live. And I got that.

[Martha]

all the houses are located in Southern California