Houses: Inside and Out by Mariette Himes Gomez
'A house is an idea, a house is a thing, a house is you, a tangible embodiment of your dreams and desires and interests. Your house has its own personality and continuity and unity. Its parts come together as your home'. As the award-winning interior designer explains, a house becomes a home only when it is infused with personal touches; when its individual parts flow together logically; and, when it assumes a warm and welcoming character. Gomez begins by inviting us to consider the many elements that unify a house. We watch as she unfolds every detail - from the doors, fireplaces, and staircase, to the more conceptual elements of balance, color, and movement - revealing how each factor contributes to a home's overall aesthetic, and how each can be controlled to create a certain effect. She then provides practical guidelines for building, buying, or renovating the perfect home for you.