HOUSE DESIGN REFERENCE BOOKS: I am interested in locating a reference book(s) that clearly illustrates exterior design elements and proportion suggestions for houses. I know there are thousands of books out there, but I am really trying to hone the list down by getting first hand referrals on books that you found to be very insightful.
EXAMPLE: Although not a perfect example or from a book, I really enjoyed the article, “Frame a Shed Dormer” in January ’09 addition of Fine Homebuilding. The author made some proportions suggestion as well as practical construction methods and alternatives.
More specifically, I have a cape where the ridge is too low to covert the attic to a true functional living space. My goal is to remove the existing roof and rebuild it with a higher ridge, as well as to add a shed dormer on each side that would almost run the full length of the house; however, as indicated previously, I am very concerned about the proportions as well as the visual details. I.e., I most definitely do not want to put a vinyl clad rectangular box on top of a brick one, the slope for the main roof verses the slope of the shed dormers, the height of the new ridge compared to the existing first floor foot print, etc. I do not expect the design to pop out of a book, but solid examples would go a long way in help visualize a well balanced and proportion the finished product.
A LITTLE BACKGROUND: I bring this point up only because I know that it will, and rightfully so, be suggested by someone. I have already paid good money for the “design expertise” of an architect to draw up plans to allow for second floor living space. (Folks, this is only a 28′ x 40′ cape, this is not a brain twister to design, and I did not think I was asking for a lot here.) The bottom line, his thoughts and design ideas were a waste of my money and I cannot afford to repeat this type of mistake. Live and learn.
Thank you and I look forward to your suggestions.
Replies
Greetings Jake,
This post, in response to your question, will bump the thread through the 'recent discussion' listing again which will increase it's viewing.
Perhaps it will catch someone's attention that can help you with advice.
Cheers
94969.19
In the beginning there was Breaktime...
94969.1 Photo Gallery Table of Contents
This was one of those guys who does duplicate postings. He already had this run in another thread a week or two ago.
Welcome to the Taunton University of Knowledge FHB Campus at Breaktime. where ... Excellence is its own reward!
ok, too much going on out there to try and keep track.
Better dupes than not at all. Just running the course.
Might've been while you were on your 'vacation' with your carpenter's helper.;)
Welcome to the Taunton University of Knowledge FHB Campus at Breaktime. where ... Excellence is its own reward!
Hey, I never thought that age old icon pic would raise the feathers that it did.
I don't recall anyone ever getting booted for that specific photo.
Then again ye old memory ain't as tack worthy as it once was.
Sometimes gotta watch those unthinking compulsive moves. snorK*
Edited 2/28/2009 3:44 pm ET by rez
Thank you Rez for your interest. I didn't get any responses
on my first post. I figured that it had to do with timing
so I re-posted the question. I then received some much
appreciated suggestions on design books. Consequently I
purchased "Get Your House Right". I would also recommend
this book to others for design suggestions. It has very
nice detailed illustration on both right and wrong approaches,
as well as being very informative on correct terminologyAgain, thanks
I found " A Pattern of Language" very useful. It deals in concepts such as the useful size of a balcony, positioning of windows and so on. It is not for everybody particularly if you need precise drawings. Borrow it from a library before you buy. It's around $30 at Amazon.
That was my first thought too - based on the thread title. That is a great book. OTOH I think he is looking more for info on structural and "how to build" type topics than actual design issues.
I'm a little confused by his statement that he hired an architect and it was a waste... I'm not a big proponent for architects, but It would seem that the archi would have at least been able to address all structural issues... You know... X# jack studs here, Y size header there, Z sized beam there, etc.
Matt,To clarify, it was and is all about the design look. I am a contractor
and am not seeking any info about how to build it, nor do I have any interest in simply throwing one second floor rectangular box onto the
existing first floor box and topping it off with a roof. It is about
the merging of the new with the old while having design elements
that enhance the overall aesthetic look.
Check out "What not to Build". I found it in Menards. Lots of pictures and explanation of why some things just don't look right.
"A Pattern Language" is an excellent book for understanding proportioning, space layout, etc. Don't let the first chapters throw you off. (It starts off with the large - layouts for cities - and proceeds to the small - your house) Amazon has it for $40 take a look.
Rich
ps architects can really suck! And be pretty good.
Head over to Amazon and look at the books by Franchis D.K. Ching. His stuff is my first line of resources for design when I'm looking for a "How To". Don't know if it will fit your bill, but it's worth a look.
Mike Hennessy
Pittsburgh, PA