This book is 10 years old, and it's more relevant today than ever.
Sarah Susanka's philosophy is that quality is more important than quantity. She shows how space can be shared, how rooms can serve multiple purposes, and how nooks can serve better than rooms.
Large homes not only cost more to build, they cost more to furnish, more to clean, more in annual property taxes, and more in utility costs.
Not So Big House isn't a book about sacrifice - it's a book about enhancing, about enjoying a better quality of life in your home.
There's a recent 10th anniversary edition at Amazon with a revised chapter. Susanka has written several other books in the meantime, but I think the best of them was this original book.
It's all about living well. Design and details.
Now I just wish she'd write one about the Not So Big Office!
I heard her do an interview today on kitchens. I must get his book!
Pat - I would have liked to listen to her interview. Is there a replay anywhere online?
This looks extremely compelling and I am going to check it out! i also like your comment about the:
Not So Big Office
Have a great week!
Russell - are you coming to Leaders in Luxury this week?
Hi Sharon, I am very sad to say, I will be unable to attend. I have to prepare for and attend a shareholder meeting for my family's business and Trust from this Wed. through next Saturday night. It's a long story and I can only say that it is extremely important to have succession plans and alternatives ready when a business is transitioning. I was really looking forward to visiting with you and to networking with other excellent agents and Brokers from around the country! It's going to be a good time as well as a great opportunity to grow business contacts. One of my favorite folks from Austin, Stan Barron is speaking and he is a truly fine person as well as a consummate professional. If you have not already met him you will enjoy his company!
That sounds like a great book, I'm definitely going to check it out. Thanks for sharing it, I haven't run across it before.
Russell - boo hoo. I'll miss you. Business does come first, whether it's real estate or family. Yes, I do know and like Stan. I always look forward to seeing him, whether it's in Austin or wherever we're sharing a conference.
Chris - you should enjoy it, and find it useful in your staging. I like your ladybug.
Sharon I am so disappointed because I was really looking forward to visiting with you and meeting some new people with whom I could network in the future! I will make a genuine effort to make the next conference or event as soon in the future as possible!
I stage websites, but I love looking at photos of houses, home improvement stuff, everything. You can tell my mom is a staging realtor, my daughter even has the gene! Thanks about the ladybug!
I've seen this book and would also recommend it. So nice to see someone suggesting that people remodel and live within their means versus going out and buying a bigger, newer house to keep up with the Joneses.
I think that looks like a great book. i definitely beleive McMansions are on their way out. Smaller spaces can be vey cozy and comfortable. They can also be much easier to manage :)
Sharon, I'll be seeking that one. An urge to design a new home has just surfaced recently. I'm sure it's full of provacative ideas. Thanks!
Sharon I have never heard of her. I might have to check out this book myself next time when I stop at my neighborhood Borders Bookstore. Thanks for sharing. Great post.
Russell - you missed a great Leaders in Luxury conference, and I missed you!
Chris - what a wonderful multi-generational talent!
Lisa - I love the character of the homes Susanka describes.
Meyer - they also have lower property taxes.
Kevin - let me know if the book stimulates great ideas for you.
Lanre - you can also check amazon.com for used copies or discounted copies.
It looks like a great book and worth the investment is the author is still making a few revisions here and there to keep up. Thanks.
Terrie - when I read the blurb for the anniversary issue of the original book it said that there was a new chapter with updates.