Jim Olson: Building, Nature, Art– Jim Olson & Aaron Betsky. This lavish monograph celebrates one of the most respected and admired American architects, known for his sensitivity to the nature and traditions of the Pacific Northwest. Turn the pages of plans, sketches and photographs to learn how Seattle-based architect Jim Olson blends straight, clean architectural lines and curves natural scenery with ease over the course of a career spanning nearly fifty years. This work focuses chiefly on his buildings for art-collecting private clients and large-scale resorts.
Mod Mirage: The Midcentury Architecture of Rancho Mirage– Melissa Riche & Jim Riche. Available August 7.
Immerse yourself in architecturally innovative homes and communities that were built on and adjacent to the historic Thunderbird and Tamarisk Country Clubs from 1950 to 1970, in what is now the community of Rancho Mirage, California. No longer overshadowed by neighboring Palm Springs, Mod Mirage reveals in photos and stories the historic homes and social communities of Rancho Mirage that make up its significant midcentury heritage.
Ocean View: The Perfect Holiday Homes; Nature Retreats Vol. II– Sebastiaan Bedaux. Travel journalist Sebastiaan Bedaux has gathered 50 of the most stylish, dreamy hideouts in the world, all overlooking the vast blue. Devour page after page of beautifully designed holiday homes with stunning sea or ocean views. Practical information is provided, such as variety of styles, price tags, unique geography and contact details for renting the properties—these are not your typical Airbnbs.
Making L.A. Modern: Craig Ellwood: Myth, Man, Designer– Michael Boyd. The definitive volume on Craig Ellwood, a visionary architect, designer and tastemaker often called “the Cary Grant of architecture.” One of the most visible faces of California mid-century modernism, he was known as much for his exquisitely designed, minimalist structures as he was for his exuberant lifestyle. Through photographs, primarily of the iconic houses he designed in Southern California during the 1950s and ’60s, we see a life of refined decadence, expressed through gorgeous architecture, fast cars, beautiful women, Hollywood style, palm trees, swimming pools and minimalist design.
Hudson Modern: Residential Landscapes– David Sokol. Available June 28. Hudson Modern showcases stunning new houses in the Hudson River Valley that embrace the dramatic settings and cultural bounty of New York state. As the birthplace of American landscape, the Hudson River Valley has long been a refuge from the city and a laboratory for new aesthetic expression. Author David Sokol presents 20 design-forward houses that are responsive to terrain, building vernacular and cultural legacy. You’ll see how these new Hudson Valley houses are making the way for rural living in the twenty-first century.
Tin Can Homestead: The Art of Airstream Living –Natasha Lawyer & Brett Bashaw. DIY enthusiasts, tiny house-lovers and van-lifers will find inspiration and step-by-step instructions in Tin Can Homestead, the ultimate resource for living small in your own Airstream paradise. The Airstream trailer is the newest touring vehicle craze with resurgent popularity dovetailing the tiny house movement. With a hip aesthetic and a fresh voice, the authors pair their DIY knowledge with décor, design and entertaining advice.
Smart Homes and Communities– Avi Friedman. In the wake of the ongoing digital revolutions of the 21st century, designers and planners are paying significant attention to the design of dwellings and neighborhoods, and considering new economic realities by integrating innovative digital appliances, which are also helping to foster economic sustainability for future generations. In this important book, Avi Friedman, professor of architecture in Montreal, examines these concepts and their applications through several revealing essays.
Building a Sustainable Home: Practical Green Design Choices for Your Health, Wealth, and Soul– Melissa Schifman. Available August 21. Written by a sustainability advisor and financial advisor who has personally directed the building and LEED certification of her own home, Schifman shares her knowledge and experience for others to use in their journey toward a greener way of living. Whether the reader is building a new home or doing a minor remodel, a homeowner needs a framework by which to guide their decisions. Learn the logistics of choosing windows, insulation, appliances and lighting. Here is everything you need to know to build a sustainable home as part of the growing green movement. MH
