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
"this is only a 28' x 40' cape, this is not a brain twister to design"
That's right, but it sounds like you could be making it into one! 28' wide will easily give you living space above in a cape style, but from the sounds of it, you are leaning more to a saltbox and/or trying to fit a two story colonial into a cape shell.
What pitch is the roof as designed now?
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I like both of these books.
http://www.amazon.com/Get-Your-House-Right-Architectural/dp/1402736282/ref=sr_1_5?ie=UTF8&s=booksqid=1234645558&sr=1-5
http://www.amazon.com/Traditional-Construction-Patterns-Rules-Thumb/dp/0071416323/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&s=booksqid=1234645558&sr=1-2
I will second the recommendation for "Get Your House Right" book by Marianne Cusato. I am designing a front porch right now and have found this book to have a wealth of information on classical design and proportions of house components. Good Luck.
Robert