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Get lost in the pages of a good book—it’s the soul of any room.
Given the environmental, social and economic forces shaping our current geopolitical landscape, it’s no longer surprising to see people opting for life in smaller spaces. From escapes in rural and woodland settings to urban spaces for city dwellers, the options seem endless – and welcoming. This exciting new volume explores how these contemporary marvels don’t only reflect a need but also an aesthetic preference.
Opening with a lively introduction by Jodidio, the book features 275 pages with 275 colour photographs and 55 b/w illustrations that reveal the beauty of homes in North America, South America, Europe, Asia and the Pacific.
Foreseeably, most of the homes feature minimalist interiors, exteriors and palettes designed to highlight their natural surrounds. Standouts include Baumraum Architects’ Pond House and Mirrorcube House, both in Germany, as well as the Urban Cabin in the Netherlands by DUS Architects and Rooftecture OT2 in Japan by Shuhei Endo. But the most captivating residence is the inimitable Grayson Perry’s A House for Essex in the UK, by FAT Architecture.
Designed to be a relaxed, comfortable read, this volume is a friend to those looking for an armchair escape or inspiration to reinvent their lifestyle.
By Philip Jodidio
Rizzoli
We interview Andrea Savage from A Life By Design – Living & Branding on creating aesthetically beautiful and deeply functional spaces
EMKAY delivers a bold and intricate fit-out by transforming a 1,800 sqm space into SUSHISAMBA Abu Dhabi, a vibrant multi-level dining experience
The Synua Wall System by Oikos offers modularity and style
Perennials unveils the Sun Kissed collection for 2025
Architect Rabih Geha’s collaboration with Iwan Maktabi
For Ayesha Erkin, architecture was never just about buildings, but about how people live, eat, gather and remember
Cycladic heritage, heartfelt hospitality and contemporary design converge on Deos Mykonos, designed by GM Architects
Curved shapes and colourful artworks bring vibrancy to this contemporary home with mesmerising nature views
Perched among the treetops, this serene home’s permanent connection to nature invites dwellers to unplug and unwind
A.R.M. Holding and BIG unveil visionary masterplan around Jebel Ali Racecourse
Interior designer Claudia Afshar’s collaboration with Cosentino redefines vertical cladding with nature-inspired textures and a timeless aesthetic