Get Your House Right

Get Your House Right presents architectural guidelines and principles for traditional residential design and construction. The book provides detailed illustrations and explanations of common mistakes in home building, along with solutions for achieving proper proportions and authentic traditional details. The authors break down residential architecture into key components - from foundations and rooflines to windows, doors, and interior elements. Technical drawings and side-by-side comparisons demonstrate the differences between correct and incorrect approaches to each architectural feature. Instructions cover both the practical requirements of building elements and their visual impact within classical design traditions. The text includes guidance on materials selection, construction methods, and ways to adapt traditional principles for modern needs. At its core, this work makes a case for the enduring relevance of traditional architectural wisdom and its role in creating homes that are both functional and harmonious. The principles outlined connect to broader themes of architectural integrity, cultural continuity, and sustainable building practices.

Readers describe this as a detailed reference guide for traditional architectural details and proportions. Multiple reviewers note it serves both as a practical handbook and coffee table book. Liked: - Clear illustrations and diagrams - Side-by-side examples of correct vs incorrect details - Technical explanations in accessible language - Useful for both professionals and homeowners Disliked: - Some find it too focused on traditional/classical styles - A few mention the binding quality could be better - Limited coverage of modern architectural elements - Several note the price is high Ratings: Amazon: 4.7/5 (190+ reviews) Goodreads: 4.4/5 (90+ ratings) One architect reviewer stated: "This book teaches what architecture school should but doesn't." A homeowner noted: "Helped me communicate better with contractors during renovation." The most common criticism from reviews: "Great content but needs more durable binding for a reference book used frequently."

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🏛️ Marianne Cusato gained widespread recognition for designing the "Katrina Cottage," an affordable and dignified alternative to FEMA trailers following Hurricane Katrina. 🏠 The book features over 1,000 hand-drawn illustrations, making complex architectural principles accessible to both professionals and homeowners. 📐 Co-author Ben Pentreath has designed buildings for Prince Charles's Poundbury development, a pioneering urban extension in Dorset, England. 🎨 The architectural principles discussed in the book are rooted in centuries-old traditions that date back to Ancient Greece and Rome, showing how these classic elements remain relevant today. 🌿 The book's teachings have influenced sustainable design practices by promoting traditional building methods that naturally regulate temperature and reduce energy consumption.