If You Lived Here

Synopsis

Master of the cut and paste art technique, Giles Laroche takes readers on a storytelling journey around the world that celebrates the diversity of homes and the people who are shaped by them.

Step into unique homes from around the world and discover the many fascinating ways in which people live and have lived. If you lived in the mountains of southern Spain, your bedroom might be carved out of a mountain. If you lived in a village in South Africa, the outside of your house might tell the story of your family. And if you lived in a floating green house in the Netherlands, you could rotate your house to watch both the sunrise and sunset.

With intricate bas-relief collages, Giles Laroche uncovers the reason why each home was constructed the way in which it was, then lets us imagine what it would be like to live in homes so different from our own. Showing the tremendous variety of dwellings worldwide-log cabins, houses on stilts, cave dwellings, boathouses, and yurts-this book addresses why each house is build the way that it is. Reasons-such as blending into the landscape, confusing invaders, being able to travel with one's home, using whatever materials are at hand-are as varied as the homes themselves.

List of Houses included:

Dogtrot log house, based on dogtrots built in the southern U.S.
Chalet, based on chalets built in the Austrian Alps.
Pueblo, Taos, New Mexico
Connected barn, based on connected barns common in northern New England.
Cave dwelling, Guadix, Andalucia, Spain
Palafitos (house on stilts), Chiloe Island, Chile
Palazzo Dario, Venice, Italy
Chateau La Brede, Bordeaux, France
Tulou, Hangkeng village, Yongding, China
Half-timbered houses, Miltenberg am Main, Germany
Greek island village houses, Astipalaia Island, Greece
Decorated houses of Ndebele, Pretoria, Transvaal, South Africa
Yurt, based on yurts in Mongolia and other parts of central Asia.
Airstream trailer, USA
Floating house, Middleburg, the Netherlands
Tree house, USA
 

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Summary

Chapter 1: The Neighborhood

This chapter explores the benefits and challenges of living in a neighborhood. The author, Rick Kahl, argues that neighborhoods provide a sense of community, safety, and belonging. He also discusses the importance of creating walkable and accessible neighborhoods.

* Real example: Kahl describes the neighborhood of Little Five Points in Atlanta, Georgia, which has become a popular destination for locals and tourists alike. The neighborhood is home to quirky shops, restaurants, and music venues, and it has a strong sense of community.

Chapter 2: The House

This chapter examines the different types of houses available in neighborhoods. Kahl discusses the pros and cons of single-family homes, townhouses, and apartments. He also provides tips on choosing the right house for your needs.

* Real example: Kahl describes his own experience of buying a house in the neighborhood of Inman Park in Atlanta. He discusses the challenges of finding the right house and negotiating the purchase price.

Chapter 3: The Street

This chapter focuses on the importance of streets in neighborhoods. Kahl argues that streets should be designed to encourage walking, biking, and socializing. He also discusses the role of trees and other landscaping in creating a welcoming and inviting street environment.

* Real example: Kahl describes the street improvements made in the neighborhood of North Avenue in Atlanta. The improvements included adding sidewalks, bike lanes, and trees. The improvements have made the street more pedestrian-friendly and have increased the sense of community in the neighborhood.

Chapter 4: The Park

This chapter explores the role of parks in neighborhoods. Kahl argues that parks are essential for providing recreation, relaxation, and a sense of community. He also discusses the different types of parks and how to choose the right park for your neighborhood.

* Real example: Kahl describes the transformation of the park in the neighborhood of Piedmont Park in Atlanta. The park was once a neglected and crime-ridden area, but it has been transformed into a vibrant and popular destination for locals and tourists alike.

Chapter 5: The School

This chapter examines the importance of schools in neighborhoods. Kahl argues that schools are not only places of learning, but also community centers. He also discusses the different types of schools available and how to choose the right school for your family.

* Real example: Kahl describes the success of the charter school in the neighborhood of East Lake in Atlanta. The school has transformed the neighborhood into a thriving community and has improved the lives of many of its residents.

Chapter 6: The Store

This chapter explores the role of stores in neighborhoods. Kahl argues that stores are essential for providing convenience and a sense of community. He also discusses the different types of stores available and how to choose the right store for your neighborhood.

* Real example: Kahl describes the success of the grocery store in the neighborhood of Buford Highway in Atlanta. The store has become a gathering place for the community and has helped to revitalize the neighborhood.

Chapter 7: The Future of Neighborhoods

This chapter examines the challenges and opportunities facing neighborhoods in the future. Kahl discusses the need to address issues such as gentrification, displacement, and climate change. He also provides tips on how to create vibrant and sustainable neighborhoods for the future.

* Real example: Kahl describes the efforts of the neighborhood of Old Fourth Ward in Atlanta to revitalize the neighborhood and address issues such as gentrification and displacement. The neighborhood has created a community land trust to ensure that affordable housing remains available for residents.