The Great American House: Tradition for the Way We Live Now

Gil is a great architect and great writer. The floor plans and photography were great. Tells the how behind the what how it happened. Great storyteller.

I have purchased all three of his books. Each is beautiful and inspiring. Paging through is a fun escape for anyone who enjoys reading about design.

Love Gil Schafer's design. Classic design, quality workmanship, modern living. Everything considered; topography, thoughtful landscaping/ not too fussy, views from inside to outside, beautiful interiors ....all in perfect harmony.

It really doesn't get any better than this. Gil Schafer's new book does everything that one hopes it will do, and with considerable polish. From his discussions of his background and design philosophy to descriptions of the planning and execution of the four projects presented, it's obvious that Mr. Schafer is a master of his craft and loves what he does. This volume showcases his incredible skill in handling 21st century spaces in a traditional American idiom, and his perception of the details that imbue new, functional construction with the look and feel of age and provenance.Aside from a typo in the book's forward mentioned by another reviewer, it's obvious that this one had a great deal of attention on its way to press. The presentation is neat and tight, the projects thoroughly photographed and, wonder of all, nothing is discussed in the prose that we can't see in the photos. Add to that the work of some first-string interior designers, and this is one book that I couldn't put down - and to which I have returned repeatedly with enthusiasm.From the comprehensive photography and floor and site plans, to the sensitive and expository text, the reader is only left wanting for a sequel. Hopefully Mr. Schafer won't keep us waiting too long.

This writer and architect is brilliant! He is a great writer!! He explains how he designs houses and why. This is rare. The last "rave review" (and I do rave when I find a really great book) was about "Villa" by John Saladino.Both of these different, and brilliant architects are able to explain why they design the spaces that they do! In understandable language to a layperson! It makes sense; and they explain it!That to me; is an additional rare talent to add to the talent that they possess as architects! (and in John's case; also an "interior designer")This is a really great book! I think the best thing about "classical architecture"; (in our age of "hideous", my opinion, of course, "McMansions" despoiling the countryside in every state); this man explains why classical architecture makes so much sense.......and why to go there if you are building a house!As a decorator; for many years, I have been asked to look at "McMansions"; and asked if I can "make this cozy"? My answer,always; unfortunately, is : "No, I cannot." Because it is impossible.The proportions are wrong, the ceilings are too high, the windows are all wrong, on and on. And they are simply unworkable as "comfortable family houses"; which is my goal as a decorator!This book may contribute to "Stop the Madness!!" I can only hope!It is a treasure!

Excellent presentation of photography of decoration in the style that I most like.There were a good number of examples including those of gardens in the style I prefer

Lots of great ideas to create your own dream home. The book has a lot of full page photos.

It is hard to overstate my enthusiasm about the work of Gil Schafer, architect. His projects are exceptionally well planned and beautifully built. I impatiently waited all summer for this book of his houses to be published and it was more than worth the wait.Being a Rizzoli publication, the book itself is a magnificent product with high paper quality and outstanding picture size and clarity. It has a certain heft that tells you that no material shortcuts were taken.The content is exactly what I expected; a fascinating narrative from Schafer on his architectural journey and the philosophy which guides his designs. It is so refreshing to see such beautiful classical architecture being created in the 21st century. There are four chapters focusing on particular buildings; Schafer's own Hudson Valley country house, which is a fine classic Greek Revival temple; a new traditional country house; a renovation of an early 20th century Nashville home and the staggering restoration of Gatewood, a phenomenal antebellum townhouse in Charleston, South Carolina, which with the lightest, most sensitive touch, is now fully functional for the modern age.This book immediately vaults to the top five amongst a pretty extensive architectural library. For the reader interested in classical architecture this is required reading. Oh that I was in a tax bracket to commission a custom designed home of the first order, Gil Schafer would be my architect.