House Rules: An Architect's Guide to Modern Life

Drawing on examples of her own distinctive, humane modern design, celebrated architect Deborah Berke demonstrates how to create a serene haven for contemporary living. House Rules documents the beauty and relevance of Deborah Berke’s vision by articulating eight guiding principles to achieve an enriching domestic space. Her rules range from how to design a meaningful sequence from indoors to out, to the need for abundant storage to live an uncluttered life. House Rules delves deep into Berke’s working process and her thoughtful approach to design, showcasing more than fifty residences. An inspiring guide for home owners and those aspiring to build a house, House Rules also addresses such timely factors as environmental sustainability and innovative construction techniques. Drawing on these examples of her user-friendly contemporary designs, House Rules demonstrates how to craft a serene space for modern living. Photographs of compelling details richly illustrate her principles, underscoring both the poetry and practicality of her ideas.

Deborah Berke’s New York City firm, Deborah Berke Partners, has created an extensive body of work with a distinct and lasting character, including a significant portfolio of residential, institutional, and hospitality projects. Berke is the incoming Dean of the Yale School of Architecture, the first woman to hold this post in the 100-year history of the school, where she has taught for 25 years. The award-winning architect’s work has been published in The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, Architectural Digest, Dwell, and Architectural Record.

Rick Moody is the author of the novels Garden State, The Ice Storm, and Purple America, among others, as well as The Black Veil: A Memoir with Digressions, which was awarded the PEN/Martha Albrand Award for the Art of the Memoir.