In a recent blog, I listed some of the chapters on garden design and ways to approach...clue, 'The same way as a house layout'!

So it seems reasonable to list some of the chapters and book reviews in my book...'Self Build Design...the last thing you need is an architect', not a sideswipe at architects, but a review of your way forward before the architect/designer's fee clock starts ticking. The book is equally appropriate for bespoke/custom designs, as well as renovations, rebuilds and extensions. There is no padding, none of it put together by Phil Space or Phillipa Page, and few pretty, pretty snaps to make you jealous.

Here goes, in no particular order...

House on a narrow plot...a tale of some real, narrow houses...with clues.

Character, Interest, Delight...wow factor. a reprise of earlier thoughts with a real tale

Whither fashion...Some thoughts about the sale of a tired classic design, and the ability to see beyond fashion

The Small House...Its Architecture and Surroundings...some thoughts about an early twentieth Century book, written by an Arts and Crafts architect, but very valid for today.

The Artistic House...A book review, with reference to Tips from one of the UK's most successful Arts and Crafts architects.

The Place of Houses...another review of an American House design team complete with extensive check-list.

Solutions for Making  small houses feel big...a further analysis of Frank Lloyd Wrights thinking. well illustrated with plans.

The Sensual Home. Some thoughts about Ilse Crawford's coffee table work on the impact of a home on our senses. ever since she has contributed to a US TV show the book now retails for over £100...good luck tracking that down...time for reprint I feel!

How about a garden to be proud of...My thoughts, along with colleagues, from my spell of teaching architecture.

How and Where to start design...as above and self-explanatory

Listing of words and descriptions (and their opposites)...used as a teaching method for 'lost' design students.

Spatial Excitement...Based on A fully developed response to a question on another forum.

Brief and site analysis...the 'must do' part of the design process, and the reason why pre-made plans and plan books are, IMHO, pretty pointless

Above is a brief resume of just a few reviews, reiterated blogs and thoughts from teaching days on approach design...its all frustrating sometimes, but great fun. Some readers will know this already.

For more info contact Jamie on lofthousestudio@hotmail.com