As an accessory dwelling unit specialist, I would recommend The Not So Big House by Sarah Susanka. This book revolutionized my approach to design by focusing on how people actually live in and use space. Susanka stresses optimizing function over maximizing square footage. Her "form follows life" philosophy has shown me how to create highly livable spaces for clients even when limited to 800 square feet. By incorporating multi-purpose rooms, open floor plans, and built-in storage, I'm able to design ADUs that feel airy and uncluttered. The Not So Big House also emphasizes using quality materials to convey a sense of warmth. I now specify finishes like hardwood floors, stone countertops and wood cabinetry as standard in all my projects. Though more expensive upfront, these materials actually save clients money in the long run through lower maintenance and energy costs. Finally, Susanka's book taught me the importance of natural light. I work closely with clients to incorporate large windows and skylights into their ADU designs. Access to natural light and views of the outdoors are key to making a small space feel comfortable. By applying Susanka's principles, I'm able to create ADUs that function beautifully and stand the test of time.
As an architect, I would recommend The Hidden Geometry of Flowers by Keith Critchlow. This book explores how geometry underlies all natural forms, including flowers and architecture. Studying geometry and incorporating its lessons into my designs has allowed me to create more balanced, harmonious spaces. For example, in a mountain home I designed, the roofline, decks, and terraces mirror the angles and curves of the surrounding peaks. The home fits seamlessly into its setting as a result. In another project, a commercial building, I used the golden ratio to determine the optimal dimensions for windows and skylights. This proportion is pleasing to the eye and helps bring natural light deep within the space. The book also shows how life adheres to mathematic principles, which I find inspiring. In my experience, tapping into geometry and natural patterns leads to innovative, memorable designs. Clients are often delighted by the poetic resonance and flow these choices create. While some see math and art as opposites, this book helped me recognize they arepartners in creating beautiful,purposeful spaces.
I always recommend the book "Steal Like an Artist" by Austin Kleon, especially to those who are just starting out in interior design. The main idea of the book is that all creativity is born from existing ideas. New designers often feel pressured to create something completely revolutionary, and that taking inspiration from others feels like plagiarism. I love this book because it essentially proves to the reader that even the most world-renowned artists like Picasso drew inspiration from other artists. The idea that your work can't have any ties to existing work is just absurd. This message completely changed the way I approach interior design. Rather than trying so hard to be "different" for each and every project, I focus on blending the best elements from well-known design concepts and adding my own unique twist based on my experience and personality. This new approach now only results in some of the best interior design projects of my career so far, but also significantly less stress and anxiety during my work. I'd honestly recommend this book for anyone in any creative field.
As a home renovation expert, I would recommend The Not So Big House by Sarah Susanka. This book taught me that quality, not quantity, creates dwellings people connect with. By focusing on a building's experience rather than its size, any home can become a haven. For example, in a project last year, homeowners wanted more natural light and flow in their dated colonial. Rather than defaulting to an extensive addition, we reworked the interior. Removing walls opened space and installed skylights brightened rooms.These simple changes rendered an uninviting house into a modern home at a fraction of the cost and hassle of expanding square footage. In my work, I always start by asking how clients want their space to feel. The answer guides what stays or goes in a redesign. This approach, inspired by Susanka's book, has won my firm a slew of awards and referrals. Downsizing ambition and maximizing impact creates cozy retreats clients rave about. Overall, The Not So Big House shows that less is more if you focus on purpose over excess.
Founder / Head of Marketing & Sales at Southwestern Rugs Depot
Answered 2 years ago
One book that completely changed my approach to design is "A Pattern Language" by Christopher Alexander. This book breaks down the elements of good design into patterns you can use to create more harmonious and user-friendly spaces. Instead of focusing solely on aesthetics, it teaches you to think about how a space feels and functions. This method really helps you ground your designs in real-world usability. One practical tip from the book that I use consistently is the concept of "flowing spaces." It talks about creating pathways and rooms that intuitively guide people through a space, making it both functional and inviting. When designing a room or even arranging rugs, think about how people will move through the area. This small adjustment can drastically improve the overall feel and utility of a space. Try it in your next project; you’ll notice a big difference.
As a home and interior design expert, I highly recommend "The Elements of Style" by Erin Gates to my peers. This book has greatly influenced my approach to design in many ways. One of the biggest takeaways from this book is learning how to create a cohesive and personal space for clients. Erin Gates emphasizes the importance of incorporating personal touches and elements that reflect the client's personality into their home design. This not only adds character to the space but also creates a sense of comfort and familiarity for the client. "The Elements of Style" also delves into the importance of balancing aesthetics and functionality in home design. It's not just about creating a visually pleasing space, but also ensuring that it meets the needs and lifestyle of the client. This has influenced my approach to always consider both aspects when designing a space, resulting in designs that are not only beautiful but also practical.
As the owner of a general contracting firm, I'd recommend The E-Myth Revisited by Michael E. Gerber. This book showed me the importance of working on my business, not just in my business. Early on, I was so focused on keeping up with daily tasks that I neglected lomg-term planning. Gerber's book helped me step back and develop systems to scale my company. For example, we implemented project management software to streamline communication and standard operating procedures to ensure consistency. The E-Myth Revisited also emphasized the need to delegate. I hired key team members to oversee operations so I could focus on growth. For instance, promoting our sustainable and energy-efficient practices helped position us as leaders in green building. Developing partnerships with suppliers of eco-friendly materials reduced our costs, allowing us to provide competitive pricing. By implementing Gerber’s insights, I transformed from a “technician” into an entrepreneur. We grew over 20% last year by optimizing systems, delegating responsibilities, and identifying new opportunities. For contractors seeking to expand their business,The E-Myth Revisited is essential reading. Build the infrastructure to scale, then look for ways to innovate. Success comes from working on your company, not just in your company.
The Not So Big House is a book that has greatly influenced my approach to home and interior design. Written by architect Sarah Susanka, the book challenges the conventional idea of "bigger is better" in home design and advocates for creating smaller, more personalized spaces that are tailored to fit the needs and lifestyles of their inhabitants. Susanka's book introduces the concept of "not so big" living, where the focus shifts from square footage to quality of space. She encourages readers to think about how they use and move through their homes, rather than just how much space they have. This perspective shift has completely changed the way I approach design, as I now prioritize functionality and flow over size.
I highly recommend "The Not So Big House" by Sarah Susanka. This book changed how I think about design. Susanka talks about creating spaces that feel good and work well, not just making them bigger. She focuses on quality over size. This idea made me rethink how we do home projects. Now, we focus on making homes more functional and inviting. We encourage our designers to consider how people actually use their spaces, not just how they look. This book has helped us create homes that truly meet our clients' needs, leading to happier customers and better designs.