This work features 25 houses designed over the last 50 years by various architects for their mothers, fathers, in-laws, and extended families. Included are the well-known works of recognized designers as well as early works from promising young architects. Extensive interviews with the architects and their families reveal the joys and difficulties of these very personal commissions. The houses offer innovative and affordable designs, in a variety of styles and building materials, for homes ranging from city dwellings to beach houses and mountain retreats. The architects in this collection include Natalye Appel, Peter Bohlin, Walter Chatham, Robert Kahn, Joanna Lombard, Mark Simon, Robert Venturi and Paul Westlake.