The Place of Homes, C. Moore
First published in the 1970s by prolific architect and educator C. Moore, this recently republished book shows the importance of making one’s house more than just blank space used to fill with objects. Moore speaks of the quality of light, space, views, and organization as well as how these architectural elements can create a memorable home.

A Pattern Language, L. Alexander
A compendium of simple ideas based on time-tested patterns, particularly appropriate to home design. Recently, members of the research team that helped develop these patterns have also published Patterns of Home (Taunton Press).

The Not So Big House and Creating the Not So Big House, S. Susanka
These best sellers by architect/author Sarah Susanka explore the notion that the principle ingredient in the making of a home is quality and attention to detail. Though builders and home owners’ interest in overly large “McMansions” keeps growing, the public prefers houses that are modest, distinctive, and well crafted. To this end, these two books provide a “blueprint for how we really live”.

The Distinctive Home, J. Eck
Recently published as the first in a planned series of joint efforts by the American Institute of Architects and the Taunton Press, this book explores the ideas inherent in making a distinctive and memorable home. Topics include a home’s relationship to its site, spatial or gaining action, and the importance of well thought out details.

Home as a Mirror of Self, C.C. Marcus
Our homes reflect who we are, where we’ve been, and what we aspire to. Ms. Marcus explores this theme on a personal level in this book. She identifies how we internalize spatial organization and how different people perceive the same environment. Included are games and exercises that help us understand how we us and perceive our homes.

Leaves of Grass, W. Whitman