Reading List

The Home

Home Sweet Maison by Danielle Postel-Vinay

This book offers a well disected exploration into the essence of French living and their thoughtful, practical, and still wonderfully indulgent, method of homemaking. Through vivid imagery and engaging anecdotes, the book delves into the distinctive ways the French create harmony within their homes, blending aesthetic beauty and good taste with practical concepts. Readers will uncover the thoughtful rituals, design choices, and lifestyle philosophies that characterize the French approach to home life. This guide serves not just as a manual for decorating, but as a rich cultural study, encouraging readers to embrace the principles of preparedness and joy in their own living spaces. Ultimately, "Home Sweet Maison" is a celebration of the home as a sanctuary, where the details come together to enhance everyday existence inside- and outside- of the home.

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Lifestyle

The Little Book Of Hygge by Meik Wiking

In "The Little Book of Hygge," Meik Wiking immerses readers in the essence of Danish life, centered on the art of coziness and well-being. Wiking demystifies "hygge," presenting it as an accessible philosophy that transcends material wealth. He covers how the language of various cultures, including the language around hygge, shape how we see and experience the world and therefore how we can use language to realize/capture more daily joy. He shares anecdotes and practical suggestions, encouraging individuals to find joy in life’s simple moments—whether through the warmth of a shared meal, the glow of candles, or the comfort of close company. The book highlights how fostering a nurturing environment can enhance happiness and connection, inviting readers to adopt a mindful approach to everyday living. With its engaging illustrations and heartfelt guidance, this guide is an invitation to embrace a lifestyle rooted in contentment, regardless of financial circumstances. Hygge offers everyone an accessible path to a more fulfilling existence.

The Little Book of Hygge by Meik Wiking explores the Danish concept of hygge, which embodies a lifestyle of coziness, contentment, and well-being. Through engaging anecdotes and practical tips, Wiking illustrates how simple pleasures—like warm lighting, good food, and time spent with loved ones—can enhance our quality of life. He emphasizes the importance of creating a nurturing environment that fosters connection and joy, allowing readers to cultivate their own sense of happiness in everyday moments. This book serves as a gentle reminder that living well is often found in the small joys of life

This book serves as a gentle guide of how to rediscover the small joys in life.

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Lifestyle: Food

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French Kids Eat Everything by Karen Le Billon

In "French Kids Eat Everything," Karen Le Billon offers a compelling exploration of the cultural attitudes toward food in France and how they can transform the dining habits of American families. Through her personal journey of raising her daughters in France, Le Billon highlights the importance of a balanced and varied diet, advocating for the belief that children should embrace a wide array of tastes, textures, and meals.

Le Billon argues that a lifestyle centered around food should prioritize enjoyment, mindfulness, and communal experiences, rather than convenience and processed options. She presents practical insights into how parents can encourage their children to develop healthy relationships with food, emphasizing the art of exposure and the power of active, enthusiastic parental adoption. By incorporating French culinary principles, such as setting family meals and fostering appreciation for cooking, the book provides a fresh perspective on nurturing children’s palates while shaping their overall approach to eating—one that values quality, tradition, and cultural diversity.

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Write a blurb about Suburban Nation by Andres Duany, Elizabeth Plater-Zyberk, and Jeff Speck and it's particular perspective on tackling urban design / planning

Somewhat Technical House Design

A Pattern Language by Christopher Alexander

Presents an innovative framework for urban design and architecture. The book introduces 253 design patterns that address a variety of spatial and social challenges in the built environment, emphasizing how these patterns can be combined to create functional and aesthetically pleasing spaces. Unlike traditional design approaches that focus solely on aesthetics or functionality, Alexander's work advocates for a holistic understanding of how people interact with their surroundings. By focusing on human-scale environments and fostering community connections, "A Pattern Language" uniquely engages with urban design as a dynamic interplay between form, function, and social experience, encouraging designers and planners to prioritize the needs and experiences of the inhabitants. A must-read for those interested in design, down to the proper way that a window should be designed.

Get Your House Right by Marianne Custato and Ben Pentreath

"Get Your House Right" offers a refreshing perspective on design and architecture, emphasizing the importance of classical principles in modern home construction. The authors advocate for a thoughtful integration of tradition and contemporary needs, guiding homeowners through the essential elements of creating harmonious, functional spaces. With practical tips and a focus on the relationship between architecture and its surrounding context, this book serves as a valuable resource for anyone looking to understand the finer points of design that elevate a house into a true home. Through detailed illustrations and insightful commentary, Custato and Pentreath inspire readers to appreciate the art of building with intention and aesthetic integrity.

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Write a blurb about Suburban Nation by Andres Duany, Elizabeth Plater-Zyberk, and Jeff Speck and it's particular perspective on tackling urban design / planning

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Write a blurb about Book by Author and it's particular perspective on tackling urban design / planning

Title by Author

Write a blurb about Book by Author and it's particular perspective on tackling urban design / planning

Title by Author

Write a blurb about Suburban Nation by Andres Duany, Elizabeth Plater-Zyberk, and Jeff Speck and it's particular perspective on tackling urban design / planning