Field Guide to American Houses by Virginia McAlester and Lee McAlester (1984, Trade Paperback)

Excellent & Useful Field Guide

This is an excellent, useful and practical field guild to the historic & modern styled homes built throughout America. The detailed drawings, descriptions, and author's comments are very informative. The photographs & examples of the residential styles constructed throughout America are also very interesting. This older edition is still useful and a good value compared to the latest updated version.Read full review

Verified purchase:  Yes • Condition: pre-owned • Sold by: thrift.books

Guide to the smaller details of early-day through present American architecture

This book is the answer for those of us who love to look at homes, but lack the background to identify specific parts of architecture. Until I obtained this book I could only point and say "you know...that part that is between the bottom of the roof...and the the top of that odd-looking window...you know? Isn't that pretty?" I've read and reread this book! I am beginning to have confidence as I point out various types of dormer windows...arches...doors. It makes it so much easier to ask questions...and obtain answers...when one no longer must hopelessly point :....you know, that thing pointing out over there? Isn't it interesting?" Now, I can identify that 'thing' correctly!! It also has a small section identifying types of Early American structures. I will admit until I read this wonderful book tepees were the extent of my knowledge in that area. I was surprised to learn of the broad scope of Native American dwellings. This is an old book, it's been around I believe since the '20's but it will never go out of style. This book is the perfect guide for those of us lacking architectural backgrounds. It is not for a professional. It's a wonderful guide to the history of homes, well-detailed, easy to understand, excellent pictures and sketches. I recommend it without reservation! Barbara SchultzRead full review

Verified purchase:  Yes • Condition: pre-owned • Sold by: YHO7mlwnTe6@Del...

Great Guide to learn about Different types of Houses

I have a grandson who loves houses, this was a great find, it has enough photos to compel him to read further and learn about the different style of houses

Verified purchase:  Yes • Condition: pre-owned • Sold by: gulfcoastllc

Worth the cost!

I like that it's easy to understand the writing in the book and the pictures enlighten you even more.

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such a cool book, loved reading it ...

such a cool book, loved reading it

Verified purchase:  Yes • Condition: pre-owned • Sold by: betterworldbooks

Great details of design

Good reference book for watching This Old House!

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Great book. Looks new. Thank you....

Great book. Looks new. Thank you.

Verified purchase:  Yes • Condition: pre-owned • Sold by: second.sale

great title

great book

Verified purchase:  Yes • Condition: pre-owned • Sold by: cleanearthbooks

Great book.

Verified purchase:  Yes • Condition: pre-owned • Sold by: your_online_boo...

Good book.

Great book to identify houses based on time period and architecture.

Verified purchase:  Yes • Condition: pre-owned • Sold by: second.sale