Historic House and Design Books

Read eBooks online or download a free copy to read later on your tablet computer or smart phone. Find descriptions of the best books about residential architecture, building construction and other book topics. 

eBooks for Historic House Restoration and Design

Read eBooks online or download a free copy to read later on your tablet computer or smart phone. Find descriptions of the best books about residential architecture, building construction and other topics (see below). 

Country House

The Architecture of Country Houses (1850) Andrew Jackson Downing

The Architecture of Country Houses…

One of the most influential “Pattern books” published in America during the 18th Century with house plans and details that were copied by builders, and borrowed by architects, in communities across the nation.

An Encyclopedia of Cottage, Farm, and Villa Architecture and Furniture

Examples of modest dwellings with an abundance of character that can be an excellent reference for the Tiny House movement. Showcasing dozens of architecture styles and furniture designs with over two thousand illustrations.

List of Pattern Books

Refer to a list of European Pattern Books, and the first Pattern Books published in America.

Historic House Book Topics

Reference books are listed on each main topic page at Historic Details.

  • Architectural Styles in America – Each Style page has eBook listings. Try: Federal Style Houses
  • Historic Houses in each state – Each Location page lists eBooks for each U.S. State and other regions. Try: Historic Houses in Massachusetts
  • Elements of Design
    • Doors – Find eBooks about door types and door hardware
    • Windows – Historic windows and information about new or replacement windows
    • Stairs – eBooks about stair design styles and construction details
    • Fireplace – eBooks and design guides
    • Finishes and Furniture – Interior Design
      • Furniture and millwork – Popular furniture designers and styles: Mid Century modern, traditional, historic
      • Ceiling finishes – crown molding, plaster ceiling ornament, ceiling coffer
      • Wall finishes – paint, wall coverings, paneling, other materials and methods
      • Floor finishes – Ceramic tile, stone, wood, more materials and methods

Other topics to be included:

  • Preservation
  • Architects and Designers
  • Building Types – Barn, church/synagog, municipal, movie theaters, etc.
  • Landscape architecture and gardens
  • Maps tell the story of towns and cities
  • Standard Reference books for planning and design
  • Building code reference sources