The Englishman's House: A Practical Guide for Selecting and Building a House

This volume serves as a hands‑on companion for anyone dreaming of a new home, whether you are scouting a cottage, planning a modest villa, or overseeing a larger mansion. It walks readers through the basics of site selection, layout, and the essential elements of warmth and ventilation, offering clear criteria to compare options. Along the way, the author weaves in the timeless notion of the “picturesque,” showing how light, shadow, and surrounding landscape can turn ordinary walls into something memorable.

Packed with nearly six hundred detailed illustrations, the guide presents ready‑made plans that have already been built, giving concrete examples of proportion, roof pitch, and chimney design. Practical chapters explain how to manage smoke, choose materials, and adapt classical motifs to modern needs without sacrificing comfort. The result is a balanced blend of technical know‑how and artistic insight, perfect for the thoughtful homeowner who wants both function and beauty.