rtfikii."'' 
 
 "^he Small cKlm^e 
 
 for a Moderate Jncome 
 
 cjr 
 
 kin %Jallick 
 
A 
 
 31 AOi, 
 
 i^ 
 
 1\ 
 
 CORNELL 
 
 UNIVERSITY 
 
 LIBRARY 
 
 BOUGHT WITH THE INCOME 
 OF THE SAGE ENDOWMENT 
 FUND GIVEN IN 1 89 1 BY 
 
 HENRY WILLIAMS SAGE 
 
Cornell University Library 
 
 NA7120.W21 
 
 The small house for a moderate Income, 
 
 3 1924 014 759 637 
 
THE SMALL HOUSE 
 
 FOR A MODERATE INCOME 
 
"fohe Small S^u^e 
 
 /or ajioderatefncome 
 
 <kr 
 
 ^kin %Jallick 
 
 Wtrlfbrlc 
 
 ^eanfUInternationaUdbranrG) 
 
A-Soilitlc 
 
 Copyright, 1915, by 
 Hearst's International Library Co., Inc. 
 
 All rights reserved, including that of translation into ike 
 foreign languages y including the Scandinavian^ 
 
 ^Sr..:.^ 
 
 Vv'.'.u 
 
AUTHOR'S NOTE 
 
 The houses which are illustrated in the following pages have 
 been designed to be built. For each house pictured' there are 
 complete and comprehensive building plans and specifications 
 available, which are arranged to duplicate any one of the de- 
 signs exactly as it is pictured and described. For any informa- 
 tion regarding the plans, kindly address me in care of Hearst's 
 International Library Company, 119 West 40th Street,,New York 
 City. 
 
 Ekin Wallick. 
 
CONTENTS 
 
 CHAPTER PAGE 
 
 I A Colonial Clapboard House 21 
 
 II The Four-thousand-dollar House 25 
 
 III The Homelike House 29 
 
 IV An American Home in the English Style ■ • • 33 
 V The House with the Green Shutters .... 37 
 
 VI An American House 43 
 
 VII A Dutch Colonial House 47 
 
 VIII An English Plaster House 51 
 
 IX The House on a Forty-foot Lot 55 
 
 X The Inexpensive House 59 
 
 XI The Half-timbered House 63 
 
 XII The Symmetrical House 67 
 
 XIII The Comfortable House 71 
 
 XIV A Colonial House of Quaint Charm 75 
 
 XV The Cozy House 79 
 
 XVI A Country House of Brick and Plaster .... 83 
 
 XVII The Economical House 87 
 
 XVIII Technical Points in House Building 91 
 
INTRODUCTION 
 
 IN the publishing of this book, which deals exclusively with the 
 small house in its various phases, it is my intention to promote 
 the building of the attractive house, in keeping with our present- 
 day mode of living. It is most encouraging to find that in recent 
 years greater attention is being given to the building of small 
 houses than ever before. The rapid development of suburban 
 tracts of land in almost every part of the country has created a wide- 
 spread demand for good houses of intelligent design, planned with 
 an idea of comfort and convenience as well as artistic merit. In 
 designing the houses which are illustrated and described, I have 
 kept these points well in mind, also that most important factor — 
 expense. 
 
 In the very short space of ten years we have successfully emerged 
 from the influences of the Early Victorian Era, a period of abor- 
 tions both in the building and decorating of houses. We can now 
 look back on this period with a keen sense of disgust and fully real- 
 ize that we are on the threshold of great achievement in the matter 
 of house building. The general movement countryward is largely 
 
 responsible for this new demand for better houses, linked with the 
 
 II 
 
12 INTRODUCTION 
 
 tremendous strides which have been made in artistic appreciation. 
 One has only to visit the more recently developed suburbs of our 
 larger tow^ns and cities to be impressed with the marked improve- 
 ment which has been made in this class of building. Even in the 
 older suburbs many of the hideous landmarks of forty years ago 
 are fast disappearing and are making way for the more modern 
 homes of taste and intelligence. 
 
 The period in American history, which we define as the Vic- 
 torian Era was one of mediocre architectural achievement. 
 There may be many excuses put forth for the unintelligence of the 
 time, but the fact still remains that it was most decidedly an archi- 
 tectural blot on our national escutcheon. Wood was plentiful and 
 with the introduction and rapid perfection of machinery it was al- 
 most universally employed in the building of houses. This does 
 not mean, however, that the house which is built of wood is in any 
 way inferior to those built of brick or plaster. I refer merely to 
 those houses which were made grotesque by the misuse of the 
 material. We were brought suddenly to the realization that wood 
 as a building material could be successfully and cheaply employed 
 in the construction of houses. But few architects at the time had 
 had any real technical training from an artistic point of view, and 
 the prosperity of the country was so great that the work was largely 
 done by inexperienced men who were incapable of evolving intelli- 
 gent designs. They at once depended on machine made ornamen- 
 tation in an attempt to shield their own ignorance of architectural 
 design. A curious phase of this situation was the craze for imi- 
 
INTRODUCTION 13 
 
 tation and deceit in almost everything connected with the building 
 of houses. Feudal castles with towers and turrets, often placed on 
 narrow lots, were built of clap-boards or shingles, and usually 
 painted in hideous and inharmonious colors. Houses built of wood 
 were made to look like stone. Windows, doors and porches were 
 profusely ornamented with cheap scroll work and filigree of all 
 kinds to make them look expensive. In fact, the spirit of sham 
 was dominant in most of the houses built at this time. 
 
 We still find many of these architectural atrocities in our towns 
 and cities which stand as spectre reminders of a period in the his- 
 tory of this country when commercialism had conquered all the 
 rudiments of good taste, both in the building and decorating of 
 houses. 
 
 There seems to be no satisfactory explanation for the fact that 
 our own Colonial style did not serve as an inspiration in the design- 
 ing of houses. The old mansions of New England and the South- 
 ern States, those excellent examples of Colonial architecture were, 
 to all appearances, overlooked, as few of the houses built during the 
 Victorian Era bore any of their earmarks. We are reluctant to ad- 
 mit that it was through a lack of appreciation that their influence 
 was not more universally felt, and are more than willing to attribute 
 it to ignorance of their existence. In the present day, with our 
 numerous magazines and books devoted to house building and 
 decorating, we no longer need to remain in ignorance of such mat- 
 ters, for the best examples of houses, not only of this country, but of 
 other countries, are all pictured and described and brought to our 
 
14 INTRODUCTION 
 
 very doorsteps for our inspection. This very publicity, as it w^ere, 
 is almost entirely responsible for our progress in artistic apprecia- 
 tion and the results are proven by the many homes of merit which 
 are being erected in all parts of the country. However, in the 
 Early Victorian days the house building magazines were unknown 
 and if any intelligence was to be obtained it meant a tour of per- 
 sonal inspection. 
 
 Although the houses which were designed and built during the 
 late Victorian period were undeniably American in their concep- 
 tion, they have had no lasting effects upon American architecture. 
 We have come to the full realization of their worthlessness and the 
 style will not be revived. Fortunately, to-day we are no longer 
 forced to accept the ideas of uneducated men in our house designs, 
 as there has never been a time when there were so many competent 
 architects. By comparing the modern home with that of a decade 
 ago, we can fully appreciate the advance which has been made in 
 artistic conception. 
 
 This improvement has not only made itself felt in the building of 
 more artistic homes, but has had as great an effect on the general 
 scheming of the plan to obtain the maximum of comfort and con- 
 venience. There has never been a time in the history of building 
 when the various problems of housekeeping have been thought 
 out on such a scientific basis. Each year witnesses many inno- 
 vations and appliances which are created to reduce the labors 
 and costs of housekeeping to a minimum. In fact, it is astonish- 
 ing to find what each season has to offer in labor saving devices of 
 
INTRODUCTION 15 
 
 all kinds, which can be installed in our homes at little expense. 
 The architect has been keenly conscious of this and gives his 
 domestic quarters as careful and minute consideration as the pro- 
 portions and details of his exterior designs. In the matter of 
 kitchen arrangements alone there are unlimited possibilities. It is 
 interesting to inspect the catalogue of any firm manufacturing such 
 fitments, to note the great variety of designs of all kinds, which are 
 made to promote efficiency in the modern kitchen. The questions 
 of plumbing, heating, and ventilating have all been conscientiously 
 thought out on scientific lines, so that to-day we are in a position to 
 build our homes and equip them with such modern improvements, 
 that but little comparison can be made between our modern houses 
 and the homes of yesterday. 
 
 For many years we have depended largely on foreign influence 
 for our inspiration in the designing of houses. With the exception 
 of our Colonial houses, which we are justified in claiming as our 
 own, our house designs have reflected the spirit of those of other 
 countries. Many of our best architects have received their school- 
 ing abroad, and their work bears the earmarks of such training. 
 The Beaux-Arts where the French Renaissance is so universally 
 employed, have been responsible for many of our classic designs. 
 The English styles have also been conscientiously studied and 
 widely copied, but it is undoubtedly true that an American style in 
 domestic architecture is fast claiming its place with the others. 
 
 The dominant characteristics of what we may term the American 
 Style is simplicity of design. It is free from affectation, a con- 
 
i6 INTRODUCTION 
 
 Crete crystallization of common sense. The American architect 
 makes every effort to eliminate unnecessary features of all kinds. 
 He strives for unbroken lines in his exterior designs, for he knows 
 by experience that they add decidedly to the dignity and charm of 
 the house. Unlike many of the foreign country homes, and particu- 
 larly the French, the American house is not elaborate in its orna- 
 mentation. By accentuating those parts which lend themselves 
 most readily to ornament, such as over doors and windows, his de- 
 signs are rarely commonplace or uninteresting. I do not mean to 
 say that all our designs are good, but the spirit in which the Ameri- 
 can architect works has already made itself felt in all parts of the 
 country and we may feel confident of even better results in the 
 future. 
 
 It is also true that the American house plan is excellent in its 
 economy of space and general arrangement of rooms. We strive 
 for the utmost convenience, particularly in our kitchen quarters. 
 A well arranged kitchen in any house is a feature over which the 
 architect expends his best efforts, for he knows that his house will 
 not be successful unless his kitchen quarters are designed to 
 promote efficiency. The average housewife takes a certain pride in 
 her completely equipped kitchen, for she is ever conscious of its 
 importance in the general scheme of living. In fact, all the 
 economic problems of house planning have been thoroughly 
 thought out. 
 
 The success of any house depends largely upon the common sense 
 of the architect and the owner. In building the small house we 
 
INTRODUCTION 17 
 
 accept the fact that expense is a vital consideration. In many 
 cases the very limitation of funds assures the best results as we are 
 compelled to conform to simple treatments. Quite naturally, we 
 may be forced to give up some of our pet ideas in regard to what a 
 house should be, as we will constantly be confronted by the item of 
 expense. However, we need not take this with discouragement. 
 The cost of houses in many cases is increased by the addition of un- 
 necessary features which could easily be dispensed with without 
 affecting the general scheme. The most inexpensive house to 
 build is the one which is simple and straightforward in its design. 
 Eccentricities in the way of fancy gables and broken roof lines, add 
 considerably in the cost and in the end we will, undoubtedly, obtain 
 a more satisfactory result if we avoid them. 
 
 The building of a small country house in a desirable section may 
 be looked upon as an eminently safe investment for the owner. 
 Small houses are always in demand and whether the owner builds 
 with the idea of eventually disposing of his property or not, he may 
 feel confident that his money is well invested. The fact that the 
 building of houses on speculation has increased with unusual ra- 
 pidity in the last few years proves the point. I feel justified in 
 saying that if good judgment is used in the selection of property 
 and the choice of a good design, in ninety-nine cases out of a hun- 
 dred the house can be sold with a substantial profit for the owner. 
 We are gradually coming to the realization that life in a cramped 
 city apartment has its many drawbacks, and in consequence there 
 is a steady and ever increasing movement countryward. 
 
1 8 INTRODUCTION 
 
 The cost of building is often a perplexing question. For some 
 years the unsettled condition of labor and the inflated values of 
 building materials have discouraged a good deal of country build- 
 ing. Fortunately, however, these conditions are rapidly assuming 
 their normal condition. Keen competition has been the strong 
 factor in putting building costs on a fair and reasonable basis, so 
 that to-day we may feel confident that it is quite easy and possible 
 to obtain fair estimates in almost any locality. To be sure, build- 
 ing values vary considerably in different parts of the country, so 
 that it is only possible to quote approximate estimates, unless we 
 base our figures on some specific section. For instance, it is 
 cheaper to build in the far West than it is in the East, as labor 
 and materials are cheaper in the West than in the East. One sec- 
 tion may have cheap lumber and high labor cost and vice versa 
 in another. However, these differences are gradually equalizing 
 and I think the time will come when building costs will be the same 
 the country over. 
 
 On the following pages are shown a number of houses which- can 
 be built at moderate cost. They are simple and straightforward 
 in their design, appropriate to be placed on country or suburban 
 sites. Every effort has been made to so plan them that they can 
 be built at the lowest possible cost. The specifications call for 
 thoroughly reliable building materials in every instance so that 
 the houses when completed will be free from defects of any kind. 
 It will be seen from the plans that every inch of available space 
 has been utilized to advantage, and the rooms, though not sumptu- 
 
INTRODUCTION 19 
 
 ous in proportion, are of comfortable size and convenient in their 
 arrangement. 
 
 In most instances simple changes in the plans can be made to 
 suit the owner's ideas, without affecting the general appearance of 
 the house. Rooms may be enlarged if necessary, an additional 
 bathroom added on the second floor if two baths are required, and 
 in many cases small bedrooms with dormer windows may be ar- 
 ranged on the third floor. Of course, such additions will add to 
 the cost of building somewhat, but to no serious extent. Most 
 house plans are reasonably elastic in the matter of slight changes. 
 
 The estimates which appear on the following pages are approxi- 
 mate for all parts of the country. They are based on general 
 building conditions, and are quoted to give the reader a reasonable 
 idea of what the houses should cost. In some cases lower esti- 
 mates may be obtained, but those which are quoted may be consid- 
 ered as a fair average. Approximate estimates are based on the 
 number of cubic feet contained in the houses. In consideration of 
 the fact that building costs vary considerably in different parts of 
 the country, I have taken seventeen cents per cubic foot as an 
 average on frame or clapboard houses and nineteen cents on houses 
 built of stucco or plaster on metal lath. In some sections of the 
 middle and far West, houses can be built as low as fifteen cents on 
 clapboard construction and seventeen on stucco. However, on the 
 general estimates which are quoted, I have taken the seventeen and 
 nineteen cent basis. 
 
 Most of these houses will lend themselves readily to fireproof 
 
20 INTRODUCTION 
 
 construction. The use of hollow terra cotta blocks in wall con- 
 struction not only assures a fireproof house, but the material is 
 durable and lasting. Fireproof floors of concrete are the logical 
 sequence to this type of wall construction. A house built of hol- 
 low tile is naturally more expensive than the one built of plaster on 
 metal lath. An increase of ten per cent, in the total cost will 
 usually cover it. Hollow tile also has the advantage over ordinary 
 construction of assuring a cool house in summer and a warm house 
 in winter. 
 
 In the smaller houses shown the ceiling heights are eight feet 
 and six inches on the first floor, and eight feet on the second floor, 
 in the larger houses eight feet nine and eight feet three. A low 
 ceiling creates a very cozy and homelike atmosphere and enables 
 the architect to obtain better proportions in his exterior designs. 
 In many houses the ceilings are unnecessarily high. 
 
 Cellars usually extend under the entire house. However, this is 
 a point which may be determined by local conditions. A cellar 
 under the entire house is not always necessary. In such cases the 
 rooms on the back only have cellars under them. 
 
 For many of the illustrations in this book, I am indebted to The 
 Sherwin-Williams Company of Cleveland, Ohio, and The Ladies' 
 Home Journal, through whose courtesy and interest in this publi- 
 cation, I have been able to more fully illustrate the chapters. 
 

 A COLONIAL CLAPBOARD HOUSE 
 
 -trr 
 
 ■I 
 
 Thc FirM-lliior Plan 
 
 The Second-floor Pla.n 
 
CHAPTER I 
 A COLONIAL CLAPBOARD HOUSE 
 
 THE conscientious study of architectural periods in domestic 
 building brings us to the realization that our own Colonial 
 style is about as well suited to our present day requirements as any 
 we could follow. There is no accounting for tastes, however, in 
 the building of homes and whether our preference is for an Eng- 
 lish house, an Italian villa or a Colonial house, the chief considera- 
 tion is the building of an appropriate abode, in keeping with our 
 mode of living. 
 
 I -have often been shocked, in passing through the country or sub- 
 urbs, to come across the freak house. By freak, I mean the house 
 of exaggerated ideas, where all sense of fitness is lost in an attempt 
 to create something unusual or extraordinary in the way of a home. 
 In some cases we may be amused at such creations for a time, but 
 they soon become tiresome. 
 
 We all know the charm of the old Colonial homes of New Eng- 
 land, those wonderful old buildings which have come down to us 
 as traditional examples of a period in our own history when we 
 were molding a national style. Unfortunately, since those early 
 days we have, to a large extent, failed to follow the spirit of these 
 
22 THE SMALL HOUSE FOR MODERATE INCOME 
 
 excellent examples of architecture. In our haste and eagerness to 
 establish ourselves, we have lost sight of our greatest opportunity, 
 that of maintaining and continuing the Colonial atmosphere in 
 our towns and cities. 
 
 Aside from the fact that the style is justly our own, and is de- 
 serving of our reverence, there is an unmistakable charm about the 
 Colonial house. The intimate and homelike atmosphere created 
 by its simple lines and proportions makes a strong appeal to the 
 lover of a real home. Surely, in choosing the Colonial as a style, 
 we cannot go far wrong nor ever be accused of affectation. 
 
 The present house is designed for a plot of average size. Let us 
 hope that in time it may be surrounded by many flowers of vary- 
 ing shades and hues, with trees and shrubs to give it its proper set- 
 ting. Although the design is simple, it is in no sense commonplace 
 or uninteresting. The arrangement is symmetrical. The entrance 
 door, centrally located, is flanked on either side by two well de- 
 signed bays of excellent proportion. A sense of balance is ob- 
 tained by the two chimneys, one at each end of the house. The 
 roof is unbroken, except for a single dormer placed directly in the 
 center, lineable with the entrance door. The living-porch is placed 
 squarely at one end of the house and is of ample size. The small 
 paned windows, with shutters painted in a soft harmonious green, 
 as well as the lattice panels, are characteristic features of the ex- 
 terior. 
 
 I have attempted to obtain a suggestion of the old Colonial 
 treatment by the use of wide clapboards. They can now be ob- 
 
A COLONIAL CLAPBOARD HOUSE 
 
 23 
 
 tained measuring seven inches to the weather and certainly lend a 
 far greater distinction to the exterior than the narrow sheathing so 
 much used in cheap and commonplace dwellings. The average 
 person is not conscious of the importance of such seemingly trivial 
 details, but the fact remains that they have a great effect on the 
 artistic bearing of any house. 
 
 The ground floor plan shows a good arrangement of rooms. 
 From a central hallway the living-room is entered through a dou- 
 ble doorway. French casement doors, placed at either side of the 
 fireplace, open directly onto the living-porch. A detail drawing 
 is showTi which gives an idea of the architectural treatment of this 
 room. The wall spaces are well arranged for the accommodation 
 of furniture and book shelves. A good view of the garden is ob- 
 tained from the broad window in the rear wall. 
 
 The kitchen and pantry are conveniently located in relation to 
 the dining-room. A cellar stair leads down to the basement di- 
 rectly under the main stair, easy access being afforded to it from a 
 
24 THE SMALL HOUSE FOR MODERATE INCOME 
 
 separate cellar doorway. Although the domestic quarters are not 
 large, they are ample in size for the house and convenient in their 
 arrangement. 
 
 A charming scheme for the decorating and furnishing of the 
 dining-room is shown. A set of simply designed furniture of the 
 Sheraton type in ivory enamel gives a distinct individuality to 
 the room. The various pieces are very reasonable in price, and 
 are unusually appropriate as furnishings for the small dining-room. 
 The wall is a plain French green which contrasts well with the 
 ivory tone of the furniture and woodwork. The rug is a deeper 
 shade of the same color. For window and door hangings, a 
 good pattern in cretonne, gay in color, is used to advantage. The 
 odd bits of quaint old-fashioned china, the silver candlesticks and 
 flower vases, as well as the brass wall sconces, all carry out the 
 unique atmosphere created by the furnishings. 
 
 On the second floor four bedrooms are located in the four cor- 
 ners of the house. Each room is cross ventilated, the broad win- 
 dows admitting plenty of air and sunshine. Excellent closet room 
 with good hanging space is also provided, as well as a separate 
 closet for the storage of linen and towels. A communicating bath 
 is located between the two principal bedrooms on the front; a sec- 
 ond bath convenient to the other bedrooms is placed at the back. 
 
 This house is estimated to cost $6,000, figured on a basis of seven- 
 teen cents per cubic foot. 
 
o 
 
 o 
 
 5 
 5 
 
 a 
 
THE $1^000 HOUSE 
 
 The First-fluDi' Plan 
 
 Tile Second-ftoor Plan 
 
• ^ CHAPTER II 
 
 THE FOUR-THOUSAND-DOLLAR HOUSE 
 
 IF expense were not an important factor in the building of a 
 home, we would probably have but few small houses. The 
 average person who builds has a certain amount of money to spend 
 for the constructing and equipping of a home. This specified 
 amount must pay for the house complete, after the last carpenter, 
 bricklayer, or plumber has finished his work and the house is ready 
 for occupancy. The client usually has a fairly concise idea of 
 what he wants regarding the size and number of rooms. The 
 ideas which he has formed for his own house have, in most cases, 
 been based on ideas which others have actually worked out, 
 changed and altered to meet his personal requirements. After he 
 has expressed his own desires regarding his house and how much 
 he would like for his money, it remains for the architect to tell 
 him how much he can have for his money. 
 
 Let us take, for example, four thousand dollars as a sum which 
 we may have to build a home. This amount, quite naturally, will 
 not build a spacious home, but if we are considerate and careful, it 
 will build a comfortable one. If we are unacquainted with build- 
 ing costs, we are very apt to expect more for our money than we 
 
 25 
 
26 THE SMALL HOUSE FOR MODERATE INCOME 
 
 will eventually get. Having stated the amount which we are able 
 to afford, the architect submits a rough sketch plan which shows 
 the number, size and arrangement of rooms. In drawing his plan 
 he has kept the four thousand dollar limit well in mind, and has, 
 to the best of his ability, given his client as much as possible for 
 his investment. 
 
 This sketch plan then becomes a basis for argument. Alterations 
 and changes are suggested. Because of the stipulated sum which 
 is to be afforded the architect has, in many cases, been forced to 
 eliminate some of the suggestions made by his client. This is not 
 done because the architect is indifferent to his client's wishes, but 
 because he is honestly working in his client's interest in keeping the 
 house within his price. On this point clients are often times unrea- 
 sonable in their demands, and are apt to become discouraged. If, 
 for instance, the client is told that the addition of another bath- 
 room, enlarging the living-room three feet in its length and one on 
 its width, and adding an extra bedroom will increase the cost, he 
 becomes disheartened. Or, again, perhaps the client's wishes are 
 for a more ornate and complicated exterior treatment. Dormer 
 windows, broken roof lines, and fancy gable treatments all add 
 considerably to the cost of building. These are all points which 
 the architect understands and is usually perfectly frank about. 
 
 An architect's profession, by the very nature of his work, is an 
 honest profession. He does not tell his client that a house can be 
 built for four thousand when he honestly knows it will cost six, for 
 the contractor's estimate will prove his dishonesty. Fortunately, 
 
THE FOUR-THOUSAND-DOLLAR HOUSE 27 
 
 the client is protected by the contractor's estimate. Before he 
 becomes responsible for the payments on his house an estimate has 
 been submitted to him for his approval. If the estimate is too 
 high and more than can be afforded, the plans must be altered and 
 reductions made so that the house can be built within his amount. 
 This means extra work for the architect, as the plans must be 
 re-drawn and compromises made in order to reduce the cost. The 
 fact then remains that although the contractor actually builds the 
 house, the architect is the one who gives you the first idea of what 
 the house will cost. 
 
 Of course, an important consideration in house building is a 
 competent and thoroughly reliable contractor. Estimates for 
 building vary considerably and it is customary to have at least two 
 estimates submitted before one is accepted. Nor is it always wise 
 to accept the lowest estimate, for a badly built house is a poor in- 
 vestment at any price. This does not mean, however, that the con- 
 tractor who submits the lowest estimate is going to necessarily give 
 you a badly constructed house. The really important point is the 
 integrity and standing of the contractor. 
 
 Then let us be fair with the architect and give him his due con- 
 sideration and be careful to choose an honest and reliable con- 
 tractor who will build us a well constructed house. 
 
 The house which is illustrated is estimated to cost $4,000. The 
 very simplicity of the design makes it an inexpensive house to 
 build. With the exception of a single bay window, there are no 
 ornamental features which usually add to the cost. The windows 
 
28 THE SMALL HOUSE FOR MODERATE INCOME 
 
 and doors are of uniform size and proportion, and the roof is un- 
 broken, except for two ventilating dormer windows. The brick 
 dado which is carried up to the sill line of the first story windows 
 is not only a practical feature of the design in that it assures a dry 
 wall, but adds a considerable charm to the general efifect of the 
 exterior. The rough plaster is a soft ivory tone, the shutters and 
 front door are painted a dull shade of blue green, and the roof is 
 stained a dark shade of brown. 
 
 I would like to call especial attention to several clever points 
 which have been worked out in the plan of this house. Immedi- 
 ately inside the front door is a small tile floored vestibule arranged 
 with a seat and cupboard space below for keeping rubbers, um- 
 brellas, etc. On stormy days this vestibule will be found invalu- 
 able. The cellar stair, which leads down immediately from the 
 kitchen under the maiu stair, has an exterior door. This fea- 
 ture is a decided advantage in any house as it permits the removal 
 of ashes and the installing of household supplies without the incon- 
 venience of entering the kitchen. In the small pantry-way a 
 dresser is built. This kitchen arrangement will, undoubtedly, 
 make an appeal to the woman who does her own work, as it is 
 planned to save as many steps as possible and to still give her ample 
 space for her domestic duties. 
 
 The plan is arranged so that one chimney answers for the whole 
 house. On the second floor each bedroom is provided with good 
 closet-room. There is a separate closet for linen and a space pro- 
 vided with a ladder which admits access to the attic. 
 
AN IMPORTANT CONSIDERA- 
 TION IN THE LIVINCi ROOM 
 IS THE ARRANGEMENT OF 
 THE FURNITURE 
 
 INDIVIDUALITY IS ADMIRABLY EX- 
 PRESSED IN THE SIMPLICITY OF 
 THE DINING ROOM FURNISHINGS 
 
THE HOJIELIKE HOUSE 
 
 ]5^ 
 
 Tho First-tloiir Finn 
 
 The Sooond-floor Plari 
 
CHAPTER III 
 THE HOMELIKE HOUSE 
 
 NO house is really successful as a home unless it possesses the 
 homelike atmosphere. It is often true that our best efforts 
 to obtain this atmosphere are none too successful, but, at least, we 
 can profit by the mistakes which others have made. 
 
 Every intelligent architect strives to obtain the homelike look 
 in the designing of his houses. Have we not all seen the little 
 old-fashioned rambling house, so snug and cozy that we have 
 wished to possess one just like it? And what is it, we may ask 
 ourselves, that creates this charming atmosphere? The architect 
 will give you technical reasons for it. He will tell you, in the 
 first place, that he strives to keep the roof lines of his houses 
 as low as possible. This is done to obtain good proportions to his 
 exterior design and invariably creates the cozy, homelike look. 
 The house which is too high for its breadth at once loses its charm. 
 We all know the hideous examples of the Early Victorian houses 
 which were built up steeple-like in the air. Ceilings were made 
 fourteen feet in height, and windows were extremely long and 
 narrow in proportion. Windows that are short and broad look 
 hospitable and inviting. If narrow windows are used they should 
 
 29 
 
30 THE SMALL HOUSE FOR MODERATE INCOME 
 
 be grouped in pairs, or a series of three, four or five. This ar- 
 rangement produces the broad effect. In designing a house the 
 architect does everything in his powder to bring it down to the 
 ground, for, by experience, he has learned the secret of the home- 
 like look, and he knows what the effect will be after the house is 
 built. These technical points the architect understands and em- 
 ploys especially when he is designing the small house, and although 
 we may not understand them ourselves, it is far better for us to 
 take his advice in the matter. 
 
 Color is also an important consideration. I have seen many 
 houses so drab and ugly in their color combination that I have felt 
 genuinely sorry for the people who had to live in them. 
 
 I once heard an English woman remark that she had been won- 
 dering what the one dominant difference was between the Ameri- 
 can and the English houses. After considerable thought she finally 
 came to the conclusion that it was our lack of color. I agreed 
 with her at once, for I have always argued that we Americans are 
 afraid of color. 
 
 If you visit the rural districts of England, or the South of France 
 and in Italy, you will realize the value of her words. There you 
 will find the orange colored tile roofs, the whitewashed walls, the 
 green and blue shutters. I lived for a year in an English village 
 in a house which was whitewashed pink, and I have seen few 
 houses more charming and inviting than this pink one. It was 
 built of plaster with a thatched roof, set among elm trees of enor- 
 mous size and surrounded on every side by flowers of the most 
 
THE HOMELIKE HOUSE 31 
 
 brilliant hues. The trim of the doors and windows was a faded 
 blue and the entrance door and trellis were painted white. 
 
 Our houses should suggest our own individuality. We should 
 all have our personal ideas regarding the houses in which we are 
 going to live, but let them be intelligent ideas, and if we are told 
 frankly and candidly by one who is in a position to understand 
 these matters better than ourselves, that we are wrong, let us try 
 to understand, for if we don't we are apt to regret it in the end. 
 
 In building a home, one is particularly anxious to incorporate 
 in it, all the little pet ideas for comfort and convenience which 
 have been dreamed of and pondered over. There are, of course, 
 limitations which we must conform to in building the small house 
 and we may have to give up certain theories which we have regard- 
 ing it, but I believe that every one has a right to his own ideas when 
 it comes to the details of interior arrangement. 
 
 The house which is illustrated is Colonial in design. It is built 
 of cream white plaster up to the second story, with a wide clap- 
 board treatment above painted in a soft Colonial yellow. The 
 shutters and window trim are painted white and the roof is stained 
 in a soft olive green. Such a color scheme could not help giving 
 the house a certain individuality. 
 
 A medium sized living-room is situated at one end of the house, 
 the living-porch opening directly olT it, on the front. The dining- 
 room is located directly opposite the living-room across the hall- 
 way. The kitchen projects from the back of the house, the space 
 above it being utilized for the sleeping-porch. The small corner 
 
32 THE SMALL HOUSE FOR MODERATE INCOME 
 
 pantry between the kitchen and dining-room is arranged with cup- 
 boards and drawers for china, glass and table linen. Easy access 
 is afforded to the basement by a cellar stairway which leads down 
 underneath the main stair. A garden door is arranged in the small 
 passage at the back of the entrance hall. This door also admits 
 direct access from the outside to the cellar stairway, without the 
 necessity of entering the house proper. 
 
 The second floor provides for three bedrooms, and bath. The 
 sleeping-porch opens directly off the principal bedroom, and may 
 be used as an upstairs living-porch, if so desired. In the last few 
 years the sleeping-porch has become exceedingly popular. The 
 idea is, undoubtedly, a good one and the arrangement made for 
 it in this plan is unusually convenient. In winter it can be easily 
 arranged with glass partitions, so that it can be used for sleeping 
 purposes in the coldest weather. It is large enough to accommo- 
 date two single beds. 
 
 A view of the living-room is shown on the opposite page in 
 which excellent taste has been displayed in the furnishing and 
 decorating. The old-fashioned atmosphere is admirably ex- 
 pressed by such furnishings, even the hob grate used in the fireplace 
 is in excellent keeping with its homelike surroundings. Although 
 all of the pieces of furniture used are of modern make, they are 
 reproductions of the old Colonial models found in the farm houses 
 and country homes of New England. 
 
 This house, which is constructed of plaster and clapboards, can 
 be built for $4,800. 
 

 2; z 
 
 o 
 e 
 5 
 
 z; 
 o 
 ►J 
 o 
 
 Z; 
 
AN AMERICAN HUME IN THE ENGLISH STYLE 
 
 ■ 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 "I 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 1 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 - 
 
 p 
 
 
 
 R. 
 
 C 
 
 h- 
 
 
 - 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 I 
 
 
 - 
 
 , 
 
 o> 
 
 
 -0 
 
 
 - 
 
 ] 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 1 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 ■ 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 I 
 
 The First-floor P];ii 
 
 The Sccond-Hoor Plan 
 
CHAPTER IV 
 AN AMERICAN HOME IN THE ENGLISH STYLE 
 
 THE English plan their houses from the outside. This sounds 
 like a curious remark, but if you are acquainted with the 
 English methods of building, you will realize the full meaning of 
 this expression. 
 
 A certain plot of ground has been acquired and the owner de- 
 cides to build a house. Before he even thinks of the general plan 
 and the arrangement of rooms, he takes his property into careful 
 consideration. His first impulse is to decide on the most advan- 
 tageous position for his garden. Perhaps the lay of the land will 
 decide this point for him, or again, the relative position of the 
 trees and natural shrubbery. This, to the Englishman's mind, is 
 of the utmost importance, for what is an English house without its 
 garden? 
 
 When the proper position which the garden is to occupy has 
 been decided he may then turn his attention to the placing of his 
 house. He knows that in deciding on his garden site one impor- 
 tant point has been settled in regard to the house, the principal 
 rooms as far as possible must face it. These points are all settled, 
 mind you, before plans are even discussed. The Englishman's 
 
 33 
 
34 THE SMALL HOUSE FOR MODERATE INCOME 
 
 garden is just as important a factor in the general plan as the vari- 
 ous rooms of the house, and I virtually believe that he would rather 
 give up his dining-room than dispense with his garden. 
 
 We can then readily see why it is that in many cases the English 
 house appears to be hindside before in comparison to our own. 
 Kitchens often occupy a forward position, and living-rooms, in 
 many cases, cannot be seen from the front. It is simply the fact 
 that the English garden has been developed and made use of, and 
 in so doing it has been brought into proper relation with the house 
 itself. 
 
 How quickly we would adopt this method of planning our 
 houses if our own gardens had been developed to this extent. 
 How well we remember the old-fashioned back yard with its dis- 
 orderly ash cans and barrels for garbage. Fortunately, however, 
 conditions are not as bad as they used to be and gradually our own 
 gardens are being developed and encouraged. 
 
 In the plan shown the living-room and dining-room are thrown 
 together. The porch occupies a position at the side of the house 
 and commands a view of the garden. To be sure, the exterior 
 treatment of this house is more distinctly English than the plan, 
 but few of our building sites have the proper surroundings to 
 enable us to use the English plan as it is found in English country 
 houses. 
 
 The distinguishing feature of the front is the well-proportioned 
 two-story bay window. The two-story bay is characteristic of 
 many English country homes. Aside from the fact that it gives 
 
AN AMERICAN HOME IN ENGLISH STYLE 35 
 
 the exterior a certain dignity, it afifords charming effects for the 
 interior, both on the first and second floors. The well-propor- 
 tioned windows grouped as they are will admit an abundance of 
 air and sunshine. In a bedroom particularly, a window arrange- 
 ment of this kind has no equal. 
 
 The house is built of plaster with a rough pebble dashed surface 
 in an ivory white tone and when combined with the brown stained, 
 half timberwork, the contrast is effective and pleasing. The roof 
 is stained a medium shade of walnut brown. Although in the aver- 
 age English house the casement window is almost entirely used, it 
 has not become popular as yet in this country. As a matter of fact, 
 our double hung sashes are more practical and by using the small 
 paned windows, we get very much the same effect. The windows 
 in this house are short and broad in proportion, giving a very quaint 
 appearance to the exterior. 
 
 The plan is quite simple and straightforward in its arrangement 
 of rooms. The stairway is located in a medium sized entrance 
 hall, which opens into the living-room with double doors. At one 
 end of the living-room opposite the bay window, a pair of French 
 doors look out into the garden and a similar pair of doors open 
 directly onto the living-porch. The kitchen is conveniently placed 
 in relation to the dining end of the living-room, and a good cellar 
 stair arrangement provides for direct access to the basement both 
 from the kitchen and from a tradesman's door at the side of the 
 house. 
 
 In evolving the kitchen quarters for a small house, the archi- 
 
36 THE SMALL HOUSE FOR MODERATE INCOME 
 
 tect makes use of every inch of available space. This is done 
 both as a matter of economy and convenience. A large kitchen in 
 a house of limited proportions w^ould not only be an extravagant 
 v^aste of space, but w^ould be quite unnecessary. All one needs in 
 the average kitchen is sufficient space in which to conveniently 
 place the range, the sink, and the cupboards and shelving. Where 
 the housewife does her own work a large kitchen is a hindrance, 
 as it merely increases her domestic labors, and makes unnecessary 
 work. One important consideration is the ventilation. A kitchen, 
 no matter how small, should be cross ventilated. If it is not well 
 ventilated the cooking odors are bound to penetrate the other 
 rooms of the house. Good cross draughts also assure a cool 
 kitchen in summer. 
 
 The interior of this house should be treated in a typical English 
 manner, bright chintzes at the windows and simple furniture in 
 oak or mahogany. The woodwork on the lower floor may be 
 stained or painted and the second floor is entirely in paint. The 
 general characteristics of the exterior of any house should be a 
 guide for the interior furnishing, and as long as this house is dis- 
 tinctly English in feeling on the outside, let the same spirit be 
 reflected within. 
 
 This house, built of rough plaster, is estimated to cost $5,500. 
 
The First-Floor Plan 
 
 The Second-Floor Plan 
 
 CHAPTER V 
 THE HOUSE WITH THE GREEN SHUTTERS 
 
 UNFORTUNATELY, the design of the exterior of a house 
 does not interest the most of us as much as its interior ar- 
 rangement. It is quite natural for any one to have a preference 
 for a certain general style, but we must go farther than this. Try 
 to think of the exterior as directly related to the interior, and let 
 there be some common harmony between the two. If, for instance, 
 we are in possession of Colonial furniture which we are eventually 
 to use in a new home, this fact, alone, should decide the general 
 style which we should choose for the exterior. By so doing, our 
 homes will be consistent and in good taste. I have often been 
 shocked on entering a Colonial house of intelligent design to find 
 the rooms made grotesque by the use of Mission furniture. We 
 should give this point considerable thought and be careful to avoid 
 incongruous combinations. 
 
 Above all, let us beware of an eccentric design. Many houses 
 
 Z7 
 
38 THE SMALL HOUSE FOR MODERATE INCOME 
 
 are made grotesque in an effort to create something different from 
 those others have built. The craze for novelty in houses should 
 not be tolerated. I have seen many examples of such creations 
 which looked more like inverted sideboards than habitable abodes. 
 Some clients will insist upon this, that, and the other thing in the 
 building of a house against the architect's advice, only to be em- 
 barrassed in the end by having to confess that they were in the 
 wrong. 
 
 A woman once came to me with a dozen clippings from maga- 
 zines showing small windows, large windows, bay windows, and 
 in fact almost every kind of window usually installed in houses and 
 wanted them all used in her home. She had even written on each 
 the particular room in which she wanted that special design used, 
 regardless of the plan or even the style of the house, for as yet we 
 had not discussed these points. Her hobby was windows. 
 
 I can frankly say that I have never had such a struggle to con- 
 vince my client that it was utterly impossible to comply with her 
 wishes. It finally resulted in a compromise and I can say, with a 
 sense of relief, that I have never seen the finished house or the 
 woman since. I can only hope that she was pleased, but I have 
 my doubts. 
 
 I do not mean to suggest that you should not have your own ideas 
 in the building of a house, only give the architect credit for the 
 experience he has had, for he prefers above all things, to be honest 
 with you. The architect, after all, is responsible for the houses 
 he builds and is it not reasonable to suppose that he is going to 
 
THE SIMPI.ICITY OF THE HALL TREATMENT IS 
 EFFECTIVE AND TASTEFUL 
 
 EXCELLENT DISCRIMINATION IN THE CHOICE OF ODD FURNISHINGS 
 IS SHOWN IN THE LIVING ROOM 
 
n 
 
THE HOUSE WITH THE GREEN SHUTTERS 39 
 
 expend his best efforts in designing a house for you which will be 
 a credit to him in the end? 
 
 There is a very limited opportunity for us to express individu- 
 ality in the exterior of our homes. We may have a preference for 
 a certain style, and the architect designs us a house following its 
 traditional lines. We may change certain features to meet our 
 fancy, but each change is affected by the plan and so we are ham- 
 pered at every turn. In the interior, however, our field is much 
 broader. Here it is that our imagination may have full sway. 
 The rooms should be made distinctly our own by the use of fur- 
 nishings and colors that are particularly pleasing to our fancy. 
 
 Successful interior furnishing, however, is an art which de- 
 mands conscientious thought and study. It is impossible to evolve 
 a successful room by an indiscriminate selection of furniture and 
 colors. This, unfortunately, is the great mistake that many peo- 
 ple make. In beginning they are apt to consider the task an easy 
 one, and quite blindly acquire odd pieces of all kinds without con- 
 sidering the fact that they are to constitute the furnishings for a 
 single room and that there should be a direct harmony between 
 them. If we have chosen the Colonial as a style for the outside 
 of the house, let it be frankly Colonial within. Let us learn some- 
 thing of the Colonial traditions in furniture and make our selec- 
 tions with intelligence. This does not mean that we need be dis- 
 couraged if we cannot afford antiques, or expensive reproductions. 
 There is a great deal of modern furniture designed in the spirit of 
 the old styles, and many reproductions of simple pieces which can 
 
40 THE SMALL HOUSE FOR MODERATE INCOME 
 
 be bought at reasonable prices, and will serve admirably as fur- 
 nishings. 
 
 The house which is illustrated is of frame construction with a 
 concrete foundation which extends above the ground to the sill 
 line of the first story windows, and is painted white to correspond 
 with the general treatment of the exterior. The floors of the en- 
 trance and living-porches are of cement, colored a soft pinkish 
 tone, and cedar shingles, stained green, are used for roofing. The 
 color contrast in this house is particularly refreshing, and could 
 never become tiresome or commonplace. 
 
 A glance at the plan shows an unusually simple and convenient 
 arrangement of rooms, utilizing to advantage every inch of avail- 
 able space. The large square windows afford an abundance of 
 light and ventilation in every room. There is not a dark corner or 
 passage in the entire house. 
 
 The entrance hall, though not large, is sufficient for a house of 
 this size. The stairs ascend in two turns, a large window on the 
 landing giving a flood of light both in the upper and lower halls. 
 The entrance from the kitchen to the dining-room is made through 
 the pantry. The cellar stairs are placed under the main stair and 
 can be conveniently reached from the kitchen and the rear entrance. 
 Ample provision is also made for cupboards and dressers. 
 
 The four bedrooms of equal size and proportions are located In 
 the four corners of the house. 
 
 The color illustrations give excellent suggestions for the deco- 
 ration and furnishing of this house. The Colonial atmosphere is 
 
THE HOUSE WITH THE GREEN SHUTTERS 41 
 
 retained throughout by a good selection of simple mahogany furni- 
 ture. 
 
 A scheme of individual charm is suggested for the living-room. 
 The w^all is divided by a chair rail above w^hich a wide striped 
 green paper is used. The hangings are also of green, a deeper 
 shade than the wall, and the rug still darker in tone. The narrow 
 frieze and cornice are ivory white to match the woodwork. The 
 contrasting color note in the furnishings is a dull shade of orange 
 gold. The very informality of the furnishings produces an atmos- 
 phere of homelike comfort. There is certainly nothing strikingly 
 unusual about the manner in which this room has been furnished, 
 but it is pleasing in effect and is, undoubtedly, an expression of 
 good taste. 
 
 The tendency, these days, is for informal furnishings. In Co- 
 lonial rooms the assembling of odd pieces invariably produces 
 effective results. In the old days houses were furnished slowly and 
 with deliberation. They did not purchase their furniture in sets, 
 as we are apt to do, but added the necessary pieces from time to 
 time as they could be afforded. 
 
 An effective scheme in yellow is suggested for the dining-room. 
 Here the idea of informal furnishings is exemplified by the use of 
 an old mahogany chest of drawers which is used as a sideboard. 
 The slat back chairs and the Sheraton leg table are quite widely 
 different in style, but are unusually harmonious when combined. 
 
 One of the bedrooms is made charming by the use of a chintz 
 paper combined harmoniously with old rose window hangings. 
 
42 THE SMALL HOUSE FOR MODERATE INCOME 
 
 rugs, and furniture coverings. The beds and dressing table in 
 their white muslin coverings add an attractive note of freshness to 
 the room. A room treated in this simple manner is in perfect 
 keeping vv^ith the Colonial atmosphere of the house. 
 
 Tan and blue, with a suggestion of orange in the printed linen 
 used as portieres at the door to the living-room, makes a novel 
 color scheme for the entrance hall. 
 
 "The House with the Green Shutters" can be built for $4,200 if 
 a reasonable estimate is obtained. The exterior treatment is the 
 very personification of simplicity. The windows are uniform in 
 size, and symmetrically placed. The slight overhang of the second 
 story gives the house a very quaint appearance. 
 
 This house is a good example of what I call an unaffected de- 
 sign. It is a simple interpretation of the Colonial style. Its pro- 
 portions are good and the general treatment unusually pleasing. 
 If all our small house designs could possess this degree of dignity 
 and refinement, our suburbs and newly developed tracts of land 
 would become more generally popular. 
 
CHINTZ PAPER ( OMBINED WITH OLD ROSE HANGINGS 
 
 MAKES A CHARMING COMBINATION FOR 
 
 THE BEDROOM 
 
 THE DINING ROOM EXPRESSES INDIVIDUALITY AND 
 GOOD TASTE IN ITS DECORATING AND FURNISHING 
 
AN AIIEKICAN HOUSE 
 
 The FirKl-Hiiiii' Plan 
 
 Tht' Spcond-Hoor Pl;in 
 
CHAPTER VI 
 AN AMERICAN HOUSE 
 
 THERE is a spirit among the modern architects to break the 
 bonds which have held them so closely to traditional styles, 
 and create something distinctly their own. This spirit is not 
 prompted, however, by any desire to renounce traditional styles, 
 but has come through a desire for individual expression. In con- 
 sequence, many charming examples of houses are being erected 
 each year which cannot justly be defined under any period heading. 
 In place of much conscientious rendering of historical ornament 
 and detail, the architect is exerting every effort to create good pro- 
 portions, well balanced elevations and harmonious groupings of 
 gables, windows or chimneys. 
 
 As a matter of fact, there is but little opportunity for period 
 style in the building of inexpensive houses. The reproduction of 
 classic cornices, and details of all kinds is an eminently expensive 
 process and in consequence our homes must be designed along 
 very simple lines. 
 
 Through this desire for individual expression we have created 
 what will eventually be known as the American Style. Its basic 
 principles conform largely to traditional standards. We have not 
 created anything distinctly new, but have evolved a style by adapt- 
 
 43 
 
44 THE SMALL HOUSE FOR MODERATE INCOME 
 
 ing that which is good from many periods in an intelligent man- 
 ner. Although many of our modern designs reflect the spirit of a 
 foreign style, we are justified in claiming them as our own. Wc 
 may refer to houses as having been built in the Italian manner, 
 or the English manner, when, as a matter of fact, they are emi- 
 nently American. 
 
 Colonial architecture, although we accept it as an American 
 style, is founded directly on the English Georgian. As a matter 
 of fact, most of the architectural styles in building have been 
 largely influenced by the traditional styles of earlier periods. 
 
 American people are not bound down by any superficial preju- 
 dices in regard to the building of houses. The very fact that, as 
 a people, we are lacking in traditions in comparison to other coun- 
 tries, has created a wide field for the architect. Above all, our 
 most potent characteristic, and one which dominates the work of 
 the modern architect, is an intuitive sense of good taste. It is as- 
 tonishing what originality and independence are being shown in 
 all lines of artistic work. The homes of any country reflect the 
 characteristics of its people, and it is encouraging to find that the 
 American people are well versed in the rudiments of good taste. 
 
 The American house is in no sense a radical departure from tra- 
 ditional standards. Principally through a process of elimination 
 we have created an unaffected style of building in which the key- 
 note is simplicity. 
 
 The house illustrated is built of plaster on metal lath. The ex- 
 cellent grouping of the windows, doorway, and two-story bay win- 
 
AN AMERICAN HOUSE 45 
 
 dow gives the front a decided individuality. The living-porch, 
 which may be enclosed in glass and used as a sun-parlor in w^inter, 
 extends across the entire end of the house. 
 
 The ground floor plan shows a combined living-room and din- 
 ing-room. The fireplace is arranged so that the same chimney 
 may be used for the kitchen range. The placing of the maid's bed- 
 room on the ground floor is also an excellent idea. It affords more 
 privacy and seclusion, and will prove a great advantage in a house 
 of this kind. A small passage immediately behind the entrance 
 hall leads to the kitchen and the cellar stairs which are located 
 under the main stairway, A good sized coat closet is also con- 
 venient to the hallway. 
 
 On the second floor are three good sized bedrooms, all cross ven- 
 tilated, a dressing-room, sleeping-porch, and bathroom. Like the 
 living-porch, the sleeping-porch can easily be enclosed in glass in 
 the winter and used as an upstairs sun-parlor, if so desired. It is 
 always an advantage to have a small dressing-room arranged in 
 conjunction with a sleeping-porch, if possible. In this plan the 
 dressing-room is particularly convenient in its relation to the other 
 rooms on this floor. 
 
 One of the great advantages in building a house of this kind, 
 which I have termed the American House, is the fact that almost 
 any style of interior furnishings will be appropriate. Oak, ma- 
 hogany, or even furniture in the simplified French periods will be 
 in keeping and in perfect good taste. In fact, a house built in 
 the American manner offers greater possibilities for originality in 
 
46 THE SMALL HOUSE FOR MODERATE INCOME 
 
 interior furnishing and decorating than almost any other style. 
 American houses are built to fulfil our requirements. The archi- 
 tect makes them interesting from an artistic point of view without 
 being hampered by set rules. 
 
 On the opposite page is an interesting view of the living-room. 
 The woodwork and walls are painted in a soft putty color, and 
 the hangings are of printed linen in gray, green, orange, and blue. 
 The arrangement of the furnishings is excellent. By placing the 
 davenport and the reading table in the way indicated, it makes the 
 most of the limited floor space. We are gradually coming to the 
 realization that plain walls are far more interesting than the old- 
 fashioned figured papers. They lend a dignity and refinement to 
 any room, especially where the simple panel effects are carried out. 
 The modern spirit in decorating and furnishing is to eliminate all 
 unnecessary furniture, pictures, and ornaments of all kinds, and 
 retain only those which are worthy from an artistic point of view 
 and conducive to our comfort. It is a great mistake to crowd any 
 room with numerous and nondescript furnishings. Our common 
 sense and artistic appreciation will be our best guide in such 
 matters. 
 
 This house is not an expensive one to build as there are no fea- 
 tures of any kind which would materially increase the cost. The 
 roof is unbroken except for a single dormer window over the liv- 
 ing-porch. This design will lend itself readily to hollow tile con- 
 struction, if a fireproof house is desired. Built of plaster on metal 
 lath, the house is estimated to cost $4,850 or $5,250 in hollow tile. 
 
AN EXCELLENT ARRAN(_;EMENT OP WELL-CHOSEN PIECES OF FUKNITUKE 
 
A UUTrH roLoNIAb HdUSE 
 
 Ttie Pirst-Moor I'lun 
 
 The Seciind-tloor Plan 
 
CHAPTER VII 
 A DUTCH COLONIAL HOUSE 
 
 THE Dutch Colonial is fast coming into its own as a style for 
 country building. There is a noticeable preference for this 
 style particularly in the East, and charming examples of Dutch 
 Colonial homes are to be found in almost every locality. 
 
 The term, Dutch, applies to the use of the gambrel roof, and the 
 heavy short columns. Frequent use was made of the gambrel roof 
 in Holland, but we never use it in our own Colonial dwellings with- 
 out attributing it to Dutch influence. The Dutch, however, built 
 entirely of brick, while we interpret the style in wide clapboard 
 sheathing. 
 
 There is a distinct charm surrounding these low comfortable 
 looking houses. From every point of view they are picturesque 
 and eminently homelike. The steeply pitched roofs coming well 
 down over the first story windows are invariably broken by the dis- 
 tinctive dormer windows. The deep sharp shadows caused by the 
 wide overhang proves a telling color contrast to the pure white of 
 the exterior walls. There is an undeniable fascination about the 
 very squattiness of these old-fashioned houses. In detail they are 
 very similar to our New England Colonial homes. The broad 
 
 47 
 
48 THE SMALL HOUSE FOR MODERATE INCOME 
 
 small paned and shuttered windows, the wide clapboards, and re- 
 fined moldings are all distinguishing marks. 
 
 In a few instances we find the Dutch Colonial employed in our 
 early buildings, but the style was not universally popular at that 
 time. The use of the gambrel roof is important only as it affects 
 the exterior design. Because of the peculiar angle which the roof 
 line takes, it is possible to obtain good lines and proportions for 
 the exterior. The Dutch Colonial style is especially well adapted 
 to small square houses. If a house is to be placed on a narrow lot 
 the front dimensions must be reduced to a minimum. In many 
 cases it is almost imperative to use the dormer window treatment, 
 as the house would be far too high in proportion to its width if we 
 attempted to raise the roof sufficiently to admit a full story on the 
 second floor. By the use of dormer windows, we are able to bring 
 the roof lines down. However, in the present instance, the dormer 
 windows take the form of a projected second story extending nearly 
 the entire length of the house. 
 
 On account of the limited floor space in this house, the stairway 
 is planned leading up from the living-room at the left of the 
 fireplace. A small vestibule affords a private entrance to the 
 house. An attractive feature in the living-room is the square bay 
 window placed directly opposite the fireplace. From the illus- 
 tration showing a corner of this room it will be seen that the old- 
 fashioned atmosphere is admirably suggested by the beamed ceil- 
 ing and the broad simply designed mantel-piece. The furnishings 
 are in keeping with the quaint homely spirit reflected by the house 
 
A DUTCH COLONIAL HOUSE 49 
 
 itself, even to the rag carpet and the Grandfather's Clock. French 
 doors lead directly to the well sheltered living-porch which extends 
 across the entire end of the house. 
 
 A dining-room of good proportion is placed immediately back of 
 the living-room, access being gained to it through a wide doorway 
 at the right of the fireplace. A convenient place for a sideboard is 
 arranged with three high casement windows above which open onto 
 the porch. 
 
 An excellent kitchen, convenient in its arrangement, and well 
 equipped with cupboards and shelving, occupies a position immedi- 
 ately back of the entrance hall. In these days of modern appli- 
 ances and clever fitments of all kinds, a kitchen, no matter how 
 small, can be made the very essence of cleanliness and utility. An 
 important consideration is the lighting and ventilating. Cross 
 draughts, for instance, prevent the cooking odors from penetrat- 
 ing through the house. The kitchen range, where possible, should 
 be lighted from a window at the side. The sink should have a 
 window immediately above the drain board. In planning the 
 small kitchen, the architect does everything in his power to mini- 
 mize the labors of the housewife by the arrangement of the fix- 
 tures and fitments. There is probably nothing that is more pleas- 
 ing to the orderly housewife than a well arranged and convenient 
 kitchen. In this particular instance, the woman of the house 
 should have her way. 
 
 The second floor plan shows a good sized owner's bedroom, 
 facing the front. The three other bedrooms, though small in size, 
 
50 THE SMALL HOUSE FOR MODERATE INCOME 
 
 are ample in proportion for a house of this kind. Every inch of 
 floor space has been utilized to good advantage and good closet 
 space provided. The hallway is well lighted from a large window 
 on the stair landing. These rooms can be made quaint and inter- 
 esting by carrying out old-fashioned ideas in their furnishing. 
 
 For the small house, I do not know of a more genuinely inter- 
 esting style than the Dutch Colonial. It seems so well suited to 
 our present day mode of living and is appropriate and in keeping 
 with its surroundings, whatever they may be. 
 
 The straightforward simplicity of a house of this kind seems to 
 radiate an atmosphere of inviting hospitality. How delightful 
 our suburbs would be if we could have more of just such houses, 
 instead of the pretentious creations which invariably spoil the 
 charm of any locality in which they are built. 
 
 This house may be made doubly charming by painting the ex- 
 terior white and the window and door frames a soft blue green. If 
 this color scheme is carried out the roof would look well stained 
 a deeper shade of green or brown. We need not be afraid to use 
 a bit of color on the exterior of our houses. If done with re- 
 straint it will add a decided individuality to the house. Many of 
 our houses could be made infinitely more charming if the framing 
 and trim were painted in a good contrasting color. 
 
 Built of wide clapboards, in a section where building prices are 
 normal, this house would cost $4,500. 
 
THE OLD-FASHIONED ATMOSPHERE IS RETAINED IN THE LIVING ROOM BY THE 
 
 CHOICE OF ODD FURNISHINGS 
 
The First-Floor Plan 
 
 The Second-Floor Plan 
 
 CHAPTER VIII 
 AN ENGLISH PLASTER HOUSE 
 
 THE last ten years have witnessed a notable development of 
 the English style in country building. More than any other 
 nation, the English have excelled in adapting themselves to coun- 
 try living, and their natural love of outdoor life is reflected in the 
 characteristic country homes. 
 
 Unlike the French, v^^ho have erected miniature counterparts of 
 their city mansions in the country, the English have caught the 
 very spirit of the country itself. Their houses are full of fresh air 
 and sunshine, each room being planned to remind its occupant that 
 he is actually in the country, where the very trees and flowers are 
 
 51 
 
52 THE SMALL HOUSE FOR MODERATE INCOME 
 
 his to be enjoyed and lived with. This intimacy with nature is 
 what is needed most seriously in our own country homes and it is 
 a most encouraging fact that the English house is fast becoming 
 one of the most popular styles for country building. 
 
 As Americans, we can well pride ourselves on being clever 
 adapters, and although we rarely copy our English cousins, we are 
 frank to admit that we have profited by the example which they 
 have set before us. 
 
 There are a few marked differences between the English house 
 plan and our own. In the first place, the Englishman loves privacy 
 in his home, and in consequence plans his house so that the princi- 
 pal rooms will face the garden, which is invariably at the back of 
 the house, away from the road. It is often the case that the kitchen 
 quarters are given a forward position, so that the back of the house 
 may be devoted to the living-rooms. We have not developed our 
 own gardens to this extent as yet, but the prospects are at least en- 
 couraging. The old idea that the rear of the house, commonly 
 termed the back yard, was a part to be screened off and avoided, 
 only suitable for ash cans and garbage pails, is rapidly disappear- 
 ing, and encouraging efforts are being made to bring it into proper 
 relation with the house itself. 
 
 Another difference in English planning which many of us fail 
 to understand is the fact that the living-porch is practically non- 
 existent in the English house. The Englishman prefers his garden 
 to being sheltered as we are on our snug and comfortable living- 
 porches. He lives in his garden as much of the time as possible. 
 
OXE IXSTINCTIVELY FEELS THE AIR OF CHEERFU I.XESS AND HOSPITALITY WHICH IS CREATED 
 BV THE IIAR.MONIOrS FlRXISHlNCiS AND THEIR ARRANGEMENT 
 
AN ENGLISH PLASTER HOUSE 53 
 
 Breakfast and tea are quite commonly served beneath the trees on 
 a graveled area arranged for the purpose, or as often on the well- 
 kept lawn, so fine and close in its growth that it serves as the softest 
 of green carpet. Yet in this case, I am free to admit that our own 
 creation of the living-porch is certainly a most comfortable and 
 convenient improvement. 
 
 A curious misconception among many people is the idea that 
 the English house as it is built in England is not practical for Amer- 
 ica. There can be no real foundation for such a theory, but it is 
 surprising to find that the English manner of building has not been 
 more widely copied than it is. The idea of placing the kitchen on 
 the front of the house, so that the living-room and dining-room may 
 face the garden is considered insane; however, many of the Eng- 
 lish houses are arranged in this way. In most instances one enters 
 the English house practically on the ground level, which adds an 
 indefinable charm, and still we continue to raise our houses four 
 or five steps off the ground, which, in many cases, tends to ruin the 
 general proportions, of the exterior especially in small houses, by 
 pushing the whole house up into the air. 
 
 The house illustrated is built of plaster on frame construction. 
 There are no ornamental features of any sort that might lead to 
 trouble in the plaster construction. The foundation up to the sill 
 line is of brick. This not only adds to the artistic effect of the ex- 
 terior, but guarantees a perfectly dry wall. The double hung sash 
 is used at all windows, the small panes suggesting the casement 
 window treatment, so much used in English houses. 
 
54 THE SMALL HOUSE FOR MODERATE INCOME 
 
 The front door, which is located at the extreme right a little 
 back from the front, opens into the entrance hall. The living- 
 room, which is entered through a double door, practically extends 
 across the entire front of the house. Probably the most attractive 
 feature in this room is the square bay, which looks out upon the 
 front yard. Opposite this window is a well-proportioned fireplace 
 of simple design, and to the left is a pair of French doors opening 
 into the dining-room. A second pair of French doors lead di- 
 rectly to the living-porch and terrace, which is situated on the gar- 
 den side of the house. 
 
 The dining-room, kitchen and pantry are all well-arranged in 
 relation to each other. A cellar stair leads down to the basement 
 underneath the main stair. Access to the front door is gained di- 
 rectly from the kitchen through the passage under the stairway. 
 
 On the second floor all of the bedrooms are well lighted and 
 ventilated. A point which will appeal to the housekeeper is the 
 ample provision made for closets. A large closet arranged for 
 linen opens off the hall. 
 
 Pleasing decorative schemes are shown for the various rooms 
 and an idea may be obtained from the color illustrations how 
 comfortable and homelike these rooms can be made. The furnish- 
 ings are all in good taste, though no attempt has been made to 
 create anything unusual. An atmosphere of restfulness is domi- 
 nant, and one instinctively feels the air of cheerfulness and hospi- 
 tality which permeates these rooms. 
 
 This house is estimated to cost $6,500. 
 
AN EFFECTIVE TREATMENT I OR THE FURNISHING AND 
 DECORATING OF THE DINING ROOM 
 
 A PLEASING COLOR SCHEME IN YELLOWS AND GREENS 
 IS CHOSEN FOR THE PRINCIPAL BEDROOM 
 
THE HOUSE ON A FORTY-FOOT LOT 
 
 The First-floor Plan 
 
 The Seeond-floor Plan 
 
CHAPTER IX 
 THE HOUSE ON A FORTY-FOOT LOT 
 
 THE planning of a two-story house to be placed on a forty- 
 foot frontage presents a difficult problem to the architect. 
 If he is an idealist in his profession he pictures an expanse of trees 
 and shrubs as a background for his design. He may tell you that 
 it is quite impossible to build a house of any architectural merit 
 on such a limited plot of ground and will, in all probability, try 
 to induce you to purchase another lot, or discourage your idea of 
 "building at all until it is possible for you to acquire more ground. 
 
 This idea is quite admirable from the architect's point of view, 
 "but he should look at the matter philosophically. We all know 
 that thousands of houses are built every year on forty-foot lots and 
 it should be the architect's desire to handle the situation to the 
 best of his ability, rather than decry an existing condition without 
 giving his client any real satisfaction. 
 
 It is to be regretted that a great many land development com- 
 panies are dividing their plots of ground into lots of far too 
 cramped dimensions. They offer many inducements to encourage 
 their clients to purchase more ground, but we are, in the present 
 instance, considering the house which must be placed on a forty-foot 
 
 irontage. 
 
 ss 
 
56 THE SMALL HOUSE FOR MODERATE INCOME 
 
 In actual figures, the house which is illustrated has a total 
 breadth of thirty feet; this leaves ten feet to be divided as best suits 
 the conditions. If an automobile drivew^ay is necessary, it will 
 require seven feet at one side of the house. This leaves three feet 
 on the opposite side. As a rule, the average lot is at least twice 
 its width in depth, so that the depth of the lot is of no vital consid- 
 eration. However, in the case of this house it is advisable to place 
 it at least half way back on the lot to assure privacy for the porch. 
 
 The design which is shown is suggestive of the English half-tim- 
 bered style. The treatment is, for the most part, a sham, as we use 
 it to-day, but is exceedingly effective if properly handled. The 
 term "quaint" is often used in connection with the half-timbered 
 house, and perhaps for the lack of a more expressive word, we are 
 justified in using it. 
 
 The plan of this house shows an exceedingly compact and con- 
 venient arrangement of rooms, both on the first and second floors. 
 The front stair is located in a small entrance hall, which serves as 
 an attractive entry way to the house. It is, undoubtedly, an objec- 
 tionable feature in any house to enter the living-room directly. In 
 many small houses this arrangement exists as a matter of economy 
 of space; however, a separate entrance should always be provided 
 where possible, even if it takes the form of a mere vestibule. It 
 provides a convenient space for hanging coats, and prevents the 
 embarrassment of having guests or strangers entering immediately 
 into the living-room. A clever idea has also been worked out by 
 combining the dining-room and living-room, so that the two are 
 
THE HOUSE ON A FORTY-FOOT LOT 57 
 
 practically one room. The dining end of the living-room is ar- 
 ranged as an alcove, and can be shielded completely by the use of 
 portieres across the wide opening. This arrangement has become 
 very popular in small houses as it provides a much larger space 
 for the living-room in comparison to the plan when the two are 
 distinct and separate rooms. Some people may argue that such an 
 arrangement is impractical, as the setting of the table is an an- 
 noyance when entertaining. If we look at the matter sensibly 
 we can see but little foundation for such a theory. As a rule, 
 the invited dinner guest comes at some specified time, and the 
 table is entirely arranged before the guest enters the house. If one 
 feels the necessity of shielding the table from view, the portieres 
 can be drawn, or a folding screen used, which can be removed when 
 the dinner is announced. In the small house, it seems useless to 
 give up the space that a dining-room requires merely to be used 
 at meal time. If this is done it is at a sacrifice of the size of the 
 living-room. 
 
 The porch opens directly off the living-room on the front. The 
 specifications call for glass partitions which will convert this porch 
 into an attractive sun-parlor in winter. 
 
 A pair of French doors open from the dining alcove to a small 
 garden at the rear of the house. The kitchen and pantry arrange- 
 ments are designed to minimize the domestic labors of the house- 
 wife. A combination laundry tub and sink is one of the con- 
 venient fixtures installed in this kitchen. There is also ample pro- 
 vision made for cupboard and shelving space. 
 
58 THE SMALL HOUSE FOR MODERATE INCOME 
 
 Three bedrooms and a bathroom are provided for on the second 
 floor. Each room is cross ventilated and good closet space ar- 
 ranged. The ceilings are all full height as no dormer windows are 
 used in the house. A sleeping porch which opens directly off the 
 smaller of the three bedrooms is installed over the back porch. It 
 is large enough to accommodate two single beds and may be en- 
 closed in glass in winter. 
 
 The house can be built at very reasonable cost because of the 
 simplicity of its exterior design and the compact arrangement of 
 rooms. There are no expensive features of any kind to deal with 
 and the construction is of the most inexpensive type. As an invest- 
 ment this house would, undoubtedly, be an excellent proposition, 
 as there is always an increasing demand for houses of this size. 
 People, these days, are becoming disgusted with the labor and ex- 
 pense of maintaining large houses. This is largely the reason for 
 the popularity of the modern apartment. However there can be 
 but little comparison between the charm of country living in a 
 house, no matter how small, and the cramped and confined life in 
 a city apartment. The demand for small country houses has never 
 been more widespread than it is to-day. We only have to visit the 
 newly developed suburbs and see the hundreds of small houses 
 which are being built, to be impressed with this fact. 
 
 This house is estimated to cost $4,000 in plaster or stucco on 
 metal lath. 
 
THE LIVIXIJ ROOM AND DINING ROOM ARE CONNECTED BY A LAKOE DOUJiLE DOORWAY 
 
M',immMif:Mk'M»''A, 
 
 .'ipiiijia 
 
 THE INEXPENSIVE HOUSE 
 
 The Eirst-floor Plan 
 
 The Second-floor Plan 
 
CHAPTER X 
 THE INEXPENSIVE HOUSE 
 
 THE planning of the small house is entirely dependent upon 
 financial conditions. This is the first and most important 
 consideration and becomes the basis for all argument. 
 
 Next to this item of expense and second only in importance are 
 the dimensions of the property upon which the house is to be 
 built. The cost of land in desirable sections, and particularly in 
 the new developments, is entirely responsible for the narrow lot. 
 Some development companies divide their acreage into plots of 
 twenty foot frontage. This necessitates the purchase of at least 
 two plots in order to build at all, and many inducements are held 
 out to the prospective builder to acquire three plots which will 
 give him sixty feet. Other companies have established the twenty- 
 five foot unit, and here our consideration is for a fifty or seventy- 
 five foot frontage. 
 
 And thirdly, a house of sufficient size to accommodate those who 
 are to occupy it must be planned for. 
 
 The narrow lot is apt to be taken with discouragement by the 
 architect, for above all, he strives for a broad house, and when 
 restricted to a narrow frontage his task becomes a difficult one. 
 
 59 
 
6o THE SMALL HOUSE FOR MODERATE INCOME 
 
 However, such limitation often makes the problem more interest- 
 ing, and a conscientious architect will take as much pride in de- 
 signing a successful small house as he will in planning the larger 
 and more pretentious one. 
 
 In consideration of these restrictions, one important point has 
 been decided in reference to the exterior design, its treatment must 
 be as simple and straightforward as possible. 
 
 Affectation in house design has two detrimental characteristics 
 of equal importance to the owner, an increase of cost and a dis- 
 play of bad taste. By afifectation, I mean an attempt to create 
 something unreal in effect, which usually takes the form of exag- 
 geration. It should be borne in mind that houses are not flippant. 
 We do not build for a day or a week, but in the majority of cases 
 for a life time. The man who builds an ugly house is not the 
 only one who suffers, for his home becomes a source of displeasure 
 to the whole community in which he lives. We have surely all 
 seen examples of such houses. Roofs, gables, windows, and doors 
 are all eccentric both in design and composition. The impression 
 is one of confusion and unrest. All sense of dignity and refine- 
 ment is lost in an unintelligent attempt at display. This is not 
 only an example of insincerity on the part of the owner, but 
 should be considered as an architectural crime worthy of punish- 
 ment. 
 
 Many of our better class developments are being restricted for 
 just this reason. By experience, the owners and promoters have 
 had to establish the censor system in regard to the building of 
 
THE INEXPENSIVE HOUSE 6i 
 
 houses. The design must be approved and accepted by a com- 
 mittee elected for the purpose before the house can be built. This, 
 at least, prevents the building of atrocities. 
 
 The item of expense is equally important to the owner. The 
 cost of a house is materially increased by affectations in design. A 
 large per cent, of the cost of any house is dependent upon the con- 
 struction. If we have a complicated design to carry out, we have 
 an expensive house to build, and in the end nothing is gained. This 
 is an argument for the simple treatment. 
 
 The house illustrated is planned to be placed on a fifty foot lot. 
 The overall dimension, from the exterior wall on the kitchen side, 
 to the extreme outer edge of the living-porch, is thirty-eight feet. 
 This leaves twelve feet to be divided as best suits the conditions. 
 Houses are usually planned so that their breadth is greater than 
 their depth. This is done purely as a matter of design, for the 
 narrow house with a greater depth than breadth is seldom, if ever, 
 good looking. In this particular instance, the house is very nearly 
 on the square. The extended wing, however, gives it a broad 
 appearance. 
 
 The house is entered through a small recessed entry at the ex- 
 treme left of the front. The entrance hall opens into the living- 
 room by double doors directly opposite the fireplace. This room 
 measures nineteen feet and six inches in length and sixteen feet in 
 width, not including the large five sided bay window which is ex- 
 tended on the front. This window arrangement, which is a par- 
 ticularly attractive feature in the room, adds considerable floor 
 
62 THE SMALL HOUSE FOR MODERATE INCOME 
 
 space. A French door to the left of the fireplace leads to the liv- 
 ing-porch. 
 
 A series of glass partitions is arranged to convert the living-porch 
 into an attractive sun-parlor in winter. The sun-parlor, like 
 the sleeping-porch, might be called a modern innovation, as it 
 has become universally popular in recent years. In this instance, 
 the living-porch has been especially arranged for the adjusting 
 and removing of v\^eatherproof partitions. In some houses it is 
 an expensive operation to enclose the porch in glass, and many 
 porches do not lend themselves readily to such treatment. In this 
 particular case, because of the square posts and the straight lines 
 employed in the construction, partitions would add but a 
 trifling expense to the general cost of the house. 
 
 An unusually clever kitchen and pantry arrangement is well 
 thought out from a utility standpoint. A sink is installed in the 
 pantry flanked on either side by cupboard shelves. A small back 
 porch, a good kitchen closet, and a separate cellar stair entrance, 
 are all points which will prove their worth in the plan. 
 
 On the second floor are two large bedrooms and two small ones. 
 The owner's bedroom on the front has a fireplace and private bath- 
 room. A second bathroom communicating with the other large 
 bedroom is also convenient to the others. 
 
 The exterior walls are of plaster on metal lath, with a rough 
 pebble dashed surface. The specifications call for white painted 
 trim throughout the interior. This house as described and illus- 
 trated would cost $6,500. 
 
THE LIVING ROOM REFLEL'TS THE MODERN SPIRIT IN EURNISHING AND DECORATING 
 
a 
 o 
 
mm. 
 
 The First-Floor Plan 
 
 The Second-Floor Plan 
 
 CHAPTER XI 
 THE HALF-TIMBERED HOUSE 
 
 THE English styles have furnished inspiration for many of our 
 modern houses. There is a dominant homelike atmosphere 
 always surrounding the English country home which is largely due 
 to avoidance of formality in design. The typical modern English 
 country house has been evolved fundamentally from the Eliza- 
 bethan and Tudor periods, although there is little evidence of 
 strict adherence to either. The English architect shows marked 
 originality in his adaptations and although he seldom departs from 
 traditional influence, his designs show a fertile quality of imagina- 
 tion. In formal designs the Georgian period is closely studied and 
 followed, and we find excellent examples of Georgian work in 
 many localities. 
 
 63 
 
64 THE SMALL HOUSE FOR MODERATE INCOME 
 
 The half-timbered house comes down to us as characteristic of 
 the Elizabethan period. The real derivation of the term, half- 
 timber, may be taken literally — a house built half of timber and 
 half of brick. Previous to the reign of Queen Elizabeth, brick 
 vv^as seldom employed in the building of houses. Although later 
 in the period we find it quite generally used, we can see from the 
 manner in which it was employed that the craftsman and builder 
 were quite unacquainted with the material. Mortar, such as we 
 use to-day, was unknown and a poor quality of plaster was used, 
 which had little adhesive properties. As a consequence, they felt 
 the need of reinforcing the walls with timbers in order to assure a 
 lasting construction. A framework of heavy hand-hewn timbers 
 was first erected, which served as the supporting structure of the 
 house. The open spaces were then filled in with brick. A great 
 many people are apt to consider that half-timbered construction in 
 the old houses was evolved for purely decorative reasons. This, 
 however, was not the case, as in all early work it was deemed a 
 structural necessity. 
 
 Later, in the same period, the builders departed from the merely 
 constructional idea and found that certain liberties could be taken 
 which resulted in a very decorative treatment. The timbers were 
 cut in odd shapes and patterns in very ornamental fashion, and the 
 brick were used in herringbone pattern and many decorative bonds. 
 Carving was also introduced and some of the existing examples 
 which we may see to-day are elaborate in design and detail. 
 
 The cost of reproducing half-timbered houses, as they were 
 
THE HALF-TIMBERED HOUSE 65 
 
 originally built, would be very great to-day, and we seldom, if ever, 
 follow those early methods. To be sure, we gain very much the 
 same efifect, but the treatment as we apply it is merely decorative, 
 and has no constructional value. Our method is to apply thin 
 timbers to the exterior of the house and fill the intervening spaces 
 with plaster. In reality, it is what is termed sham construction, 
 as it is done in imitation only of the original style. However, the 
 effect, if handled properly, is quaint and interesting. The timbers 
 break up the large bare faces of the exterior and add a decided 
 color contrast to the white plaster walls. 
 
 The timbers in the old traditional houses were hand-hewn, and 
 this fact alone is the reason why many of our modern half-timbered 
 houses do not possess the same quality of charm of the old designs. 
 In building such a house, a slight irregularity is almost essential, 
 and it is particularly advisable to have the edges of the timbers, at 
 least, hand-hewn. In fact, the quality of the materials used is 
 of the utmost importance. I have seen excellent designs ruined by 
 an unintelligent choice of building materials, and this is particu- 
 larly true of half-timbered houses. 
 
 In the house illustrated, only the second story is half-timbered. 
 It is a great mistake to overdo half-timber work. If we use it to 
 excess the effect is invariably cheap and tawdry. 
 
 The plan is extremely simple. A central hallway divides the 
 living-room and dining-room, with a garden door under the stair 
 landing. A door at the right of the fireplace leads to the large 
 living-porch. A small pantry affords a passage from the kitchen 
 
66 THE SMALL HOUSE FOR MODERATE INCOME 
 
 to the dining-room. The kitchen is projected at the back, thus 
 affording good cross draughts. 
 
 On the second floor are three bedrooms and bath. The space 
 over the extended kitchen is utilized for a sleeping porch, which 
 opens directly off the owner's bedroom. If more than three bed- 
 rooms are required, two bedrooms in the attic can be easily ar- 
 ranged. The third story stairway would be installed directly over 
 the main stair, and two dormer windows in the roof would be nec- 
 essary. 
 
 If we are fortunate in obtaining a good design, the half-timbered 
 house is exceedingly charming and picturesque. However, it is 
 advisable to avoid all ornamental half-timber work and conform 
 strictly to the simple treatments. Many houses are cheapened in 
 effect by the addition of unnecessary ornament. If a house is well 
 proportioned, and a good selection of materials used, it needs no 
 further embellishment. 
 
 The half-timbered house is not an expensive design to build. If 
 the usual simple method of exterior construction is followed, the 
 house will cost $5,000. 
 
THE SYMMETRICAL HOUSE 
 
 The First-tlfior Plan 
 
 T he. Second-hoor Plan 
 
CHAPTER XII 
 THE SYMMETRICAL HOUSE 
 
 PEOPLE, generally, have an intuitive feeling for balance. 
 We have an instinct that there is something inherently right 
 in symmetrical arrangement. Symmetry is often the natural out- 
 growth of striving for sensible arrangement, where balance of parts 
 has been regarded as of first importance. This is just as true of 
 houses as anything else, so much so that houses are defined into 
 two general classes, those which are symmetrical and those which 
 are not. 
 
 The most dominant characteristic of the symmetrical house is 
 dignity. We have an unconscious feeling that the result finally 
 obtained came from natural and not artificial reasons. After all, 
 a house consists of four walls and roof, with windows and doors to 
 admit air and light and afford an entrance, and why is it that in 
 many instances we make our homes grotesque by attempting to 
 affect some exaggerated ideas which invariably destroy the real 
 merits of a good design. Our efforts to obtain individuality in our 
 houses often lead us astray and we are apt to forget that simplicity 
 is the great charm of any successful house. 
 
 I do not mean to suggest that the symmetrical house is the only 
 
 67 
 
68 THE SMALL HOUSE FOR MODERATE INCOME 
 
 one evolved from natural causes. As a matter of fact, it is en- 
 tirely a matter of taste w^hich we build, a symmetrical house or one 
 of unsymmetrical design. Some people have a preference for the 
 formal stateliness of balanced proportions, others prefer the in- 
 formality of the rambling effects, and so we can lay down no rule 
 which can be taken as a guide in such matters. 
 
 In building the small formal house, however, we should avoid 
 any attempt to reproduce the effect of the stately mansion. Many 
 symmetrical houses are made grotesque by an effort to reproduce 
 in miniature, designs of larger and more ornate dwellings. This 
 at once makes the house appear artificial, and will be considered as 
 an expression of extreme bad taste. 
 
 It would be difficult to classify the house shown as belonging to 
 any distinct architectural period or style, as no attempt has been 
 made to so define it. Its dominant charm is, undoubtedly, its digni- 
 fied simplicity. It is with a certain sense of relief that we accept 
 such an unaffected treatment. 
 
 "The Symmetrical House" is designed for a country or suburban 
 site. The very severity of its lines calls for a setting of trees and 
 shrubs. A distinct feature of the front is the well proportioned 
 center gable. The entrance door is sheltered by an iron balcony 
 which opens off the stairway landing, and adds a novel note of in- 
 terest to the exterior. The broad, almost square windows, with 
 their green shutters, add a delightful color contrast to the cream 
 white of the plaster walls. The porch is placed at the side of the 
 house. It opens directly off of the living-room, and commands an 
 
THE SYMMETRICAL HOUSE 69 
 
 unobstructed view of the garden. The balustrade treatment af- 
 fords a privacy which is always an advantage especially where it 
 is necessary to place a house near the street. The low sloping lines 
 of the roof and the wide overhang of the eaves are distinguishing 
 characteristics of this design. 
 
 The house is entered through a conveniently arranged vestibule, 
 placed directly under the stair landing. A closet affords ample 
 space for hanging coats. From the hall the stairway ascends in 
 two turns, an attractive view of the front yard being obtained 
 from the glass door on the landing. A well-proportioned living- 
 room, with a fireplace centrally located, is entered through a double 
 door from the hall. The room is well lighted on three sides, ac- 
 cess being gained to the porch through French casement doors. 
 The dining-room, which is placed directly opposite the living- 
 room, is fourteen feet square. An excellent pantry, with a sink, 
 cupboards and shelves, occupies a position between the dining- 
 room and kitchen. 
 
 One of the great advantages in this ground floor plan is the con- 
 venience of its kitchen quarters, and the maid's bedroom directly 
 connected with it. As a rule, domestics prefer privacy in their 
 own quarters, and by placing this bedroom on the ground floor, 
 w^e have admirably gained the point. The kitchen is also provided 
 with excellent closet space. The cellar stairs lead down directly 
 from the back porch. 
 
 A glance at the second floor plan shows an unusually clever and 
 convenient division of floor space, an abundance of closet room is 
 
Vo THE SMALL HOUSE FOR MODERATE INCOME 
 
 provided, a good sized hall flooded with light from the large 
 window on the stair landing, and two well arranged communicating 
 bathrooms. A sleeping porch opening directly off one of the rear 
 bedrooms is built over the extended portion of the kitchen. 
 
 This house is built of plaster on metal lath, although the design 
 would lend itself readily to hollow tile construction. The house 
 is estimated to cost $7,000 or $7,700 in hollow tile, an increase of 
 ten per cent. 
 
 A charming scheme for the decorating and furnishing of the 
 dining-room is shown on the opposite page. The color scheme 
 is old rose and gray with furniture enameled in soft French green. 
 The woodwork is painted white and a plain French gray tint is 
 used on the wall, finished at the top with a Greek fret, stenciled 
 in green. An effective treatment for the three-part window is 
 shown. The side curtains of a plain old rose color are finished 
 with a narrow white fringe edging in which the old rose is in- 
 troduced in small French knots. The sash curtains are of scrim, 
 treated with a full valance which is carried across the tops of the 
 windows. A plain, two-toned border rug is used, in a deeper 
 shade of old rose. 
 
 A room treated in this way strikes a new note in interior decorat- 
 ing. It is refreshing to get away from the old stereotype ideas 
 which are usually carried out in the dining-room furnishing. 
 
m 
 
 AX rxrSl'ALLY PLEASING COLOR SCHEIIE AND THE CHOICE OF INTERESTING FUIlNITrilE (ilVES THE 
 
 DINING ROOM A DISTINCT I NDI VIDl'ALITY 
 
iMMdhAiiiMiiUim^^^^ 
 
 jikiiJ 
 
 THE COMFORTABLE HOUSE 
 
 Till' Pirst-Hoor Plan 
 
 The Seoond-floor Plan 
 
CHAPTER XIII 
 THE COMFORTABLE HOUSE 
 
 THE average person is quite unacquainted with the method 
 of precedure on the part of the architect in designing his 
 houses. They form their conclusions from existing examples of 
 houses built by their friends or acquaintances. They consider the 
 result only, the finished house, without any definite knowledge of 
 the conditions under which the house was built. Their tendency 
 is to criticise from an idealistic point of view, and usually blame 
 the architect unjustly for many things which were perhaps un- 
 avoidable. We all know that no house is ideal, and particularly 
 the small house, for there are limitations which hamper us at every 
 turn. 
 
 I have likened the planning of a house to the process of fitting 
 together the various pieces of a jigsaw puzzle — each separate part 
 is designed to fit its neighbor, and when actually placed together, 
 they form a complete unit. If we change the form or size of any 
 one of the parts, it at once affects the others. 
 
 Then what are the parts of the puzzle with which we have to 
 contend in the building of a house? They are the rooms which 
 the client must have to meet his requirements. The living-room 
 must be large enough to comfortably accommodate those who are 
 
 71 
 
72 THE SMALL HOUSE FOR MODERATE INCOME 
 
 to occupy it, the dining-room of ample size to provide for the 
 entertainment of guests and friends. The kitchen and its fitments 
 must be arranged to promote the utmost efficiency. On the second 
 floor, three, four, or five bedrooms must be provided, all well 
 lighted and ventilated and each with ample closet space, one or 
 two bathrooms convenient to the bedrooms, and arranged, as far 
 as possible, so that the plumbing and water connections will come 
 over the kitchen in order that all water pipes may be concentrated 
 in one place. Other demands call for a sleeping porch, a separate 
 linen closet, no dormer windows, ceilings full height, no dark pas- 
 sages or waste spaces and so on. This is the problem which the 
 architect must reason out in such a way that all the features men- 
 tioned will be incorporated in the plan, and still the house must 
 come within a certain stipulated amount. To use an old expres- 
 sion, he is often between the devil and the deep-sea. The devil 
 in this case is the unreasonable client and the deep-sea is the archi- 
 tect's final resting place if he cannot comply with his client's 
 wishes. 
 
 The architect, in most cases, however, is a good sportsman, and 
 no reasonable problem is too difficult for him. If he fails, it is 
 apt to be his client and not the problem that he cannot master. 
 
 Let us look at the plan of the "Comfortable House," and see how 
 many of these necessary features are incorporated in it. 
 
 The living-room is nineteen feet in length by eighteen feet six 
 inches in width. It is amply lighted on three sides and the wall 
 spaces are well arranged for the accommodation of furniture. 
 
THE COMFORTABLE HOUSE 73 
 
 The dining-room is, virtually, a part of the living-room. By con- 
 necting the tvvo, we make the most of the limited floor space. 
 The kitchen has an excellent pantry and broom closet, the sink, 
 range and dresser are convenient in their placing. A screened 
 porch is a feature which will make an attractive open air dining- 
 room in summer, and an excellent conservatory in winter, if en- 
 closed in glass. 
 
 To the right of the entrance hall is a small reception room or 
 study. If not required for this purpose, however, it may be easily 
 converted into a maid's bedroom with an entrance from the 
 kitchen under the main stair landing. 
 
 On the second floor, all conditions are met in a satisfactory man- 
 ner. Four good sized bedrooms are all cross-ventilated. Each 
 one is provided with a good sized closet. The bathroom is located 
 in a convenient position. A large sleeping porch, communicating 
 with the two large bedrooms, is installed over the living porch. 
 There is no waste space on this floor. 
 
 The arrangement of the exterior of the house is unconventional 
 and effective. It can scarcely be characterized as belonging to any 
 style or period, although it is distinctly English in feeling. We 
 are prone to adopt the characteristics of established styles in many 
 of our country homes, and perhaps it is just as well, for we cannot 
 go far wrong if we keep traditional standards well in mind. 
 
 If the architects of real ability and reputation would turn their 
 attention occasionally to the designing of small houses it would 
 not only be a charity to the country from an esthetic point of 
 
74 THE SMALL HOUSE FOR MODERATE INCOME 
 
 view, but would prove an inspiration to the inexperienced 
 draughtman who seeks to establish himself as an architect. There 
 is no influence more efifective than a good example, and this is par- 
 ticularly true of house building. I have seen many localities 
 where houses of mediocre design have been erected year after year 
 for the simple reason that no one would set the neighborhood a 
 good example by building one of intelligent design. On the other 
 hand, I have seen the general character of an entire neighbor- 
 hood changed in a reasonably short space of time by the inspira- 
 tion it derived from one good house. 
 
 A point which I have not brought up in connection with the 
 planning of the small house is the effect of size which is obtained 
 by the use of wide openings between the rooms. As far as possi- 
 ble, these openings should be placed opposite each other to obtain 
 a vista. I plan my houses almost invariably with a small entrance 
 hall and vestibule. Upon entering the living-room, an agreeable 
 impression of space is created by the combined living- and dining- 
 room. In the "Comfortable House," for instance, a good vista is 
 obtained from the living-room, through the dining-room, termi- 
 nating with the large broad window which overlooks the garden. 
 This proffers a good argument for the living-dining room in small 
 houses. 
 
 The design is simple and straightforward, and although the 
 house gives the effect of size, it is, in reality, of small dimensions. 
 In a good quality of approved plaster, the house is estimated to 
 cost $6,000. 
 
A COLONIAL HOUSE OF QUAINT CHARM 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 The First floor Plan 
 
 Tbe Second-floor Pliin 
 
CHAPTER XIV 
 A COLONIAL HOUSE OF QUAINT CHARM 
 
 A CERTAIN fascination surrounds the old-fashioned clap- 
 board house with its cream white walls and green shuttered 
 windows. There may be a bit of real traditional reverence in 
 our admiration for these refreshing examples of Colonial architec- 
 ture and it is more than gratifying to find that the style is becom- 
 ing more genuinely popular for country building. To be sure, 
 we have always built Colonial houses and have, to a certain ex- 
 tent, caught the spirit of the old New England homes, but there 
 are still great possibilities for evolving charming country homes, if 
 we follow their traditional lines. 
 
 In this day of commercialism in art the small house has suffered 
 from an artistic point of view. I have seen many instances where 
 houses of extreme ideas and affected design have practically ruined 
 the atmosphere of an entire neighborhood by their blatant display 
 of ostentation. We can show just as poor taste in the choosing 
 of a house design as anything else. In many cases the client is 
 largely at the mercy of the architect, for the average home builder 
 is, for the most part, ignorant of architectural styles and periods, 
 and depends upon the architect for an intelligent design. How- 
 ever, while text book information is far from necessary, it should 
 
 75 
 
76 THE SMALL HOUSE FOR MODERATE INCOME 
 
 be every one's desire to be able to distinguish between a good and 
 a bad design. Learn to know the houses in your own neighbor- 
 hood which are well designed, discuss them with some one who has 
 had an architectural training, and you will be surprised how 
 quickly your sense of discrimination will be improved. 
 
 The house illustrated possesses that intangible quality, "the 
 homelike atmosphere." This is the type of house that improves 
 with age, as each year it becomes more closely related to its sur- 
 roundings. 
 
 Although this house is Colonial in design, the plan follows 
 the English idea of placing the kitchen on the front, so that the 
 dining-room and living-room may face the garden. Let us plan 
 our gardens, no matter how small, so attractively that this arrange- 
 ment will come into general use. I can quite honestly assure you 
 that if you have once lived in a house planned in this way, you 
 would become converted to the English idea. The living-porch 
 and terrace are placed directly at the back of the house overlooking 
 the garden. However, if conditions do not permit such an ar- 
 rangement, this plan can be easily altered so that the kitchen takes 
 its usual position. 
 
 The house is entered under the stair landing, through a small 
 vestibule arranged with a closet for coats. The well lighted hall- 
 way is an attractive feature of the plan and affords a pleasant en- 
 trance both into the living-room and dining-room. A dignified 
 Colonial fireplace flanked by broad windows adds its distinctive 
 charm to the living-room. French casement doors, from which 
 
A COLONIAL HOUSE OF QUAINT CHARM •■]'] 
 
 a delightful view of the garden may be obtained, open directly onto 
 the tile floored living-porch and terrace. In winter this porch 
 may be enclosed in glass and used as a conservatory or sun-parlor. 
 In recent years the sun-parlor has become exceedingly popular and 
 may be used in the present instance as a breakfast room. In fact, 
 this porch, situated as it is, would make an admirable dining porch, 
 for it is entirely shielded from the view of the passerby. The 
 great advantage of placing the living-porch on the back of the 
 house is the fact that it assures the utmost privacy. 
 
 The dining-room also has a set of French doors overlooking the 
 garden. Old-fashioned corner cupboards may easily be installed 
 in this room. These well-proportioned cupboards always add a 
 charming dignity to any colonial dining-room, suggesting the 
 quaintness of the old dining-room. 
 
78 THE SMALL HOUSE FOR MODERATE INCOME 
 
 The kitchen and pantry arrangements have been well thought 
 out. A sink for the washing of the table china and glass is in- 
 stalled in the pantry and provision made for cupboards and shelves. 
 The cellar stair leads down from the back porch. 
 
 The second floor provides for two large bedrooms, a maid's 
 room and bath. A fireplace is planned for in the largest room, 
 and a sleeping-porch is arranged, opening off this room, over the 
 living-porch. 
 
 In recent years many of the old Colonial ideas in furnishings 
 have been revived. The quaint old wall paper designs are be- 
 ing copied, rag carpets and rugs are again becoming popular and 
 the old farm houses are being searched for spindle back and rush 
 bottom chairs which, when found, are being widely copied and 
 used in our modern homes. 
 
 This revival of interest in these old-fashioned things is largely 
 due to the fact that we are just beginning to appreciate their charm. 
 For years they have remained unnoticed except by collectors and 
 antique dealers, and practically no attempt was made to reproduce 
 them. 
 
 Let it be hoped that in a short time our homes will again reflect 
 the real spirit of the old Colonial days, when the furnishings of a 
 house were looked upon more as a collection of interesting pieces 
 than as mere necessary objects for comfort. If our homes are fur- 
 nished in this spirit, they will never become commonplace or in- 
 artistic. 
 
 This house can be built for $5,000 in clapboards or wide shingles. 
 
THE cosy HOUSE 
 
 The FirKt-flnor Plan 
 
 The Second-floor Plan 
 
CHAPTER XV 
 THE COZY HOUSE 
 
 THE ever-increasing congestion of our cities is largely re- 
 sponsible for the many new homes which are being erected 
 each year on country sites. The great improvement which has 
 been made in suburban railway service has placed our suburban 
 sites in easy reach of those who prefer the fresh air and quiet of 
 the country to the smoke and noise of the city. Most of the large 
 tracts of land, which have heretofore been inaccessible to the city, 
 are now being developed and improved as residential sections. 
 This general movement has created a great demand for small 
 house designs. 
 
 The development of house planning from early times is an ab- 
 sorbing study. Since mediaeval days when the house served more 
 as a protection and a shelter than a comfortable abode, every effort 
 has been made to perfect it from the standpoint of utility, comfort 
 and convenience. We live in an age of luxury and invention 
 where the comforts of a well regulated home and its many acces- 
 sories are taken for granted. Nor have we arrived at our goal of 
 perfection in comfortable living, for each year witnesses the intro- 
 duction of new ideas, designed to promote comfort and efficiency 
 in house building and planning. 
 
 79 
 
8o THE SMALL HOUSE FOR MODERATE INCOME 
 
 The use of the word "cozy" in connection with the house illus- 
 trated is particularly appropriate. In fact, cozy is a good synonym 
 for homelike, particularly when we apply it to small houses. But 
 few large houses are ever cozy, as the word implies small, snug 
 quarters. In the old days, rooms were vast in proportion, high ceil- 
 ings, large windows, and enormous stretches of blank wall. Every 
 effort was made to offset the cheerless atmosphere by the use of 
 ponderous furnishings, tapestries, pictures and hangings, but the 
 effect was rarely homelike, due entirely to the size of the rooms. 
 In many of the historic mansions we find small cubby holes of 
 rooms tucked away in some part of the building which were used 
 as retreats for those who preferred a cozy room. To be sure, a 
 large living-room is always desirable, but the dining-room and 
 bedrooms may be small. 
 
 The rooms on the ground floor of the "Cozy House" are well 
 arranged from the housekeeper's point of view. The living-room 
 IS entered through a double door from the entrance hall. Oppo- 
 site this doorway is the fireplace, flanked on either side by high 
 windows. The wall spaces beneath these windows may be uti- 
 lized to good advantage by installing book shelves. An attractive 
 feature in this room is the broad bay window with its convenient 
 window seat. 
 
 The dining-room is agreeably placed in relation to the living- 
 room. A good vista is obtained by looking from the living-room 
 through the double door leading to the dining-room and termi- 
 nating in the three windows which command a good view of the 
 

THE COZY HOUSE 8i 
 
 garden. A pair of French doors open directly onto the well shel- 
 tered living porch. 
 
 It is always desirable in any house to have the living porch 
 partially shielded from view. In the present instance, the slight 
 recess and the position which it occupies in relation to the house 
 itself assures a certain privacy. The old idea of placing the living 
 porch on the front of the house is no longer popular and every 
 efifort is made to place it so that it will not be conspicuous. Occa- 
 sionally, in building on very narrow lots the front porch is a neces- 
 sity, but should be avoided wherever possible to do so. 
 
 The kitchen quarters are compact in their arrangement. In 
 small houses, where floor space is naturally reduced to a minimum, 
 it is often unnecessary to provide for a separate pantry. After all, 
 the pantry in small houses is often nothing more than a part of 
 the kitchen, partitioned off. In this case, I have dispensed with 
 the pantry entirely, and have thrown the extra space into the 
 kitchen. 
 
 A good cellar stair with a separate entrance is arranged for. 
 The small passage immediately back of the main stair makes it 
 possible for the maid to go upstairs without passing through the 
 living-room or hall. It also affords direct access to the front door. 
 
 Three good sized bedrooms are provided on the second floor. 
 The large bedroom, which is the same size as the living-room, has 
 an open fireplace. The excellent closet space on this floor will 
 make an appeal to the orderly housewife. 
 
 Taking this house as a whole, it would be hard to evolve a more 
 
82 THE SMALL HOUSE FOR MODERATE INCOME 
 
 economical plan. Every inch of available space has been used to 
 advantage. Although the rooms are not large, they are all of 
 comfortable proportions. 
 
 There is a great preference, these days, even among people of 
 considerable means, for small, compact houses. I once heard a 
 remark made by a woman who owned two pretentious establish- 
 ments, a city house and one in the country. On being asked why 
 she had not opened her city house for the winter season, which she 
 was in the habit of doing, she replied, "because it's large." 
 
 In planning the small house, the architect provides for the 
 necessary accommodations and no more. Because of his restric- 
 tions in the matter of expense, he is hampered, to a large extent, 
 in the matter of large rooms. Small bedrooms are a convenience 
 in any house, as they are easily cared for and the labors of house- 
 keeping are materially reduced. 
 
 In the color illustration will be seen an attractive scheme for 
 the decorating and furnishing of the living-room. The simple 
 furnishings are in keeping with the general character of the house. 
 It will be seen from the illustration how effectively the broad bay 
 window can be treated. Brown, tan and yellow is always an at- 
 tractive color scheme for any living-room. 
 
 Although this house is shown in a shingle treatment, it will look 
 equally well in rough plaster. The very simplicity of the exterior 
 design will lend itself readily to such treatment. The design fol- 
 lows no particular style, its charm being dependent upon its good 
 proportions. This house is estimated to cost $4,500. 
 
The First-Floor Plan 
 
 The Second-Floor Plan 
 
 CHAPTER XVI 
 A COUNTRY HOUSE OF BRICK AND PLASTER 
 
 THE old idea of country life as synonymous with the farm 
 no longer prevails. In every part of the country, houses 
 are being built, designed by architects who are endeavoring to 
 infuse new life and intelligence into domestic building. This 
 modern spirit of progress is becoming manifestly evident and is 
 rapidly building up our heretofore undeveloped sections with 
 homes of taste and refinement. This spirit has called forth a fine 
 architectural talent and has created a new field for the development 
 of the American home. 
 
 It is astounding what rapid progress has been made in a few 
 
 83 
 
84 THE SMALL HOUSE FOR MODERATE INCOME 
 
 years time. We are confronted on every side by evidence of a 
 marked Renaissance in house building, and it is a safe prediction 
 to make that, in a short time the American country home will be 
 excelled by no other nation. 
 
 The architect who designs your house has made his profession, 
 not only his life's work, but his life's study. It is often true that 
 the architect has a better idea of the house which you ought to 
 live in than you have yourself. This does not mean, however, 
 that you must place your house unreservedly in his hands without 
 an expression of your own likes and dislikes. Every home should 
 express the individuality of the owner, but we must take the archi- 
 tect into our confidence in order to obtain satisfactory results. 
 
 As we visit the rural districts of England and the suburbs of the 
 larger towns and cities, we are impressed with the infinite charm 
 of their country houses. And what is responsible for this atmos- 
 phere? We will find that it is almost entirely due to the fact that 
 the Englishman prefers to forget the city and all its complexities 
 when he builds his home in the country. This love of outdoor life 
 is a dominant English trait, which is expressed as strikingly in his 
 home as it is in his love of outdoor sports. 
 
 Only in recent years have we Americans realized the difference 
 between the house which is built in the country and that which 
 is built in the city. The fact seemed to be accepted that the city 
 supplied an element of life for which all men yearned, and which 
 we found necessary to graft into rural life by attempting to carry 
 its artificialities with us. This has, undoubtedly, been our funda- 
 
A COUNTRY HOUSE OF BRICK AND PLASTER 85 
 
 mental mistake in building country homes. Our houses should be 
 made to reflect the very spirit of the country itself — the spirit of 
 trees and flowers, of growing things and productive soil. 
 
 Then, let us not attempt to duplicate our city houses in the 
 country, but build houses appropriate and suitable to informal sur- 
 roundings. 
 
 "A Country House of Brick and Plaster" is designed in the mod- 
 ern English spirit. The combination of materials used is particu- 
 larly effective and gives the exterior a quaint appearance. The 
 small windows are grouped in such a way that a broad, low effect is 
 admirably obtained. The green shutters against the white plaster, 
 the brown stained supporting timbers, and the low sweep of the 
 roof, are all distinguishing characteristics. 
 
 The first floor plan shows a large living-room extending across 
 the front of the house. Across one end of the living-room is a 
 well sheltered porch which can be enclosed in glass in winter and 
 used as a sun-parlor or conservatory. The dining-room is entered 
 through a double door to the left of the fireplace. A series of 
 windows on the garden side is a particularly attractive feamre 
 in this room. An excellent kitchen arrangement is also incor- 
 porated in the plan, with an abundance of closet room and shelving 
 space. A maid's bedroom, with its entrance door opening on the 
 small passage back of the main stairway, will be found a great 
 convenience on the first floor. 
 
 On the second floor, four good sized bedrooms are all convenient 
 to the bathroom. Each room is well lighted on two sides and 
 
86 THE SMALL HOUSE FOR MODERATE INCOME 
 
 ample closet space is provided. Additional bedrooms can be in- 
 stalled on the third floor, if so desired. 
 
 There are unlimited possibilities for charming efifects in furnish- 
 ing and decorating the English house. The shops and stores are 
 full of characteristic furniture, decorative fabrics, vv^all papers 
 and furnishings of all kinds, suitable for such rooms. 
 
 The woodw^ork on the ground floor of this house is stained a 
 soft shade of brov^n. The v^^alls are rough plastered, and may be 
 left in the natural color or tinted to harmonize w^ith any chosen 
 color scheme. On the second floor, the woodwork is painted ivory 
 white, and here it is that we may use the bright chintzes so popular 
 in English bedrooms. 
 
 On the opposite page is an illustration showing a general view 
 of the living-room, with some attractive suggestions for its fur- 
 nishing and decorating. The walls are tinted a soft tan color. 
 Orange and green are the predominating colors suggested in the 
 hangings and furniture coverings. The furniture is all brown 
 stained oak of simple design. A davenport covered in golden 
 brown velour is placed near the center of the room. Although 
 this room is simple in its furnishing, it admirably retains the gen- 
 eral spirit suggested by the design of the exterior. 
 
 The cost of "The Country House of Brick and Plaster" depends 
 largely upon the materials used. If the first story is built of brick as 
 shown in the illustration, its estimated cost is $6,500. However, this 
 house would look exceedingly well if built entirely of plaster, in 
 which case an estimate of $6,200 should be taken as approximate. 
 
THE FURNISHINGS AND ( iENERAI^ TREATJIENT OF THE LT\"IXC. ROHM AUE IN KEEPINIJ WITH 
 THE ENGEISH SPIRIT EXPIxHSSEM l!Y THE I'.XTERIOR DESIGN 
 
THE ECONOMICAL HOUSE 
 
 u 
 
 »U 
 
 1 
 
 I _ 
 
 Prfc 
 
 -^ 
 
 I 
 
 
 
 
 
 - 
 
 -- 
 
 - 
 
 -- 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 1 
 
 n 
 
 
 
 
 1 
 
 Em 
 
 1 
 
 
 1 
 
 Tlie First-floor Plan 
 
 The Second- tloor Plan 
 
CHAPTER XVII 
 THE ECONOMICAL HOUSE 
 
 IN the planning of this small house the watchword from the 
 beginning was economy. It was designed so that its cost 
 would not exceed $3,800. The plan provides for a small en- 
 trance hall, a living-dining room, pantry and kitchen, with three 
 "bedrooms and bath on the second floor. If so desired, two small 
 bedrooms can be arranged on the third floor. This would neces- 
 sitate a slight rearrangement of the second floor plan to make room 
 for the third story stairway. 
 
 In this day of narrow plots of ground upon which many of 
 us are forced to build, the architect's ingenuity is brought jnto 
 play in the designing of good houses to suit such cramped dimen- 
 sions. No matter what our restrictions may be, however, the 
 architect can show just as great a degree of intelligence and good 
 taste in the designing of a small house as a large one. 
 
 In the plan for the "Economical House," I have combined the 
 dining-room and living-room in such a way that they practically 
 become one large living-room. It is a senseless idea to divide 
 the limited floor space of a small house into a series of small box- 
 
 87 
 
88 THE SMALL HOUSE FOR MODERATE INCOME 
 
 like compartments for the mere sake of saying that we have a 
 dining-room and a living-room. As a rule, the average person 
 spends about two hours a day at his dining table — for the remain- 
 ing hours the dining-room is practically waste space unless we 
 can take advantage of it by combining it with the living-room. 
 By so doing, even in the smallest of houses, we can at least have 
 one room which will be a large, spacious and habitable abode. In 
 the present instance a beam is carried across the wide opening 
 which connects the two rooms, and portieres can be easily arranged 
 to draw across this space, if so desired. As a consequence, in- 
 stead of our living-room being seventeen feet in length, it will 
 measure twenty-seven feet from wall to wall. 
 
 The kitchen arrangements in the house will make an especial 
 appeal to the woman who does her own work. Planned to pro- 
 mote the utmost efficiency, the arrangement of the sink, range, and 
 dresser are conveniently located in relation to each other. A 
 clever combination of sink and washtub enables the housewife 
 to do the light washing of kitchen towels and table linen, without 
 going into the basement. A broom closet, and special compart- 
 ment for the ice box is provided for on the back porch. A small 
 pantry which divides the kitchen and dining-room is fitted with 
 cupboard shelves and drawers for china, glass, and table linen. 
 The cellar stairs are installed under the main stairway and a small 
 passage affords direct access to the front door. 
 
 On the second floor, three cross ventilated bedrooms are all 
 convenient to the bathroom. All ceilings are full height, with 
 
THE ECONOMICAL HOUSE 89 
 
 the exception of the forward part of the front bedroom, which is 
 slightly cut into by the slope of the roof in the extended portion. 
 
 In building the economical house, the architect is forced to do 
 close figuring in order to give his client comfortable rooms. Every 
 foot of space added is an increase in the expense. The rooms 
 must be so arranged that there is no waste space of any sort. He 
 is bound down by these restrictions at every point. His chief aim 
 is to plan a house which will be successful as a home. His method 
 of procedure resembles the fitting together of the odd pieces of 
 a jigsaw puzzle — everything must fit exactly, in order to obtain 
 a satisfactory result. He strives for a dignified treatment as far 
 as his limitations will allow. It will be quite readily seen that 
 his plan can in no sense be ideal. Many of his client's ideas in 
 matters incidental to comfort will have to be held strictly in sub- 
 jection. 
 
 The plan of this house proves to be one of the most economical 
 for a narrow frontage. Its total breadth over the house proper, 
 not including the porch, is twenty-nine feet. This is the body of 
 the house, which must be roofed. Many people are ignorant of the 
 main cost in connection with house building. For instance, I 
 have often heard the remark that a bungalow was cheaper to build 
 than a two story house because it saved the expense of installing 
 a stairway. The individual who ventured the remark was too 
 short-sighted to see that the cost of additional roofing and founda- 
 tions, where the rooms of a house are located on one floor, far 
 exceeds the cost of stairway construction. The roofing of a house 
 
90 THE SMALL HOUSE FOR MODERATE INCOME 
 
 is one of the most expensive items, and every effort is made to 
 reduce its area. Complicated roof construction is also strictly 
 avoided in the cheap house, as the cost of such construction alone 
 will add considerably to an estimate. 
 
 The specifications for the "Economical House" call for reliable 
 building materials in every case. There is no economy in cheap 
 materials, as the constant trouble and expense to keep a house, 
 which is cheaply built, in condition, soon exceeds the difference be- 
 tween the cost of reliable material and materials of inferior quality. 
 
CHAPTER XVIII 
 TECHNICAL POINTS IN HOUSE BUILDING 
 
 LET us consider briefly, and in a general way, some of the 
 technical points which should be borne in mind in building 
 the small house. 
 
 In the first place, the quality of materials used is an important 
 point in house building. The decision is largely dependent on 
 our own knowledge and discretion in the matter of values and 
 durability. 
 
 Take as a simple example our calculations in the purchase of a 
 suit of clothes. The morning paper advertises a suit at ten dol- 
 lars, which we are told is a remarkable bargain. We buy the suit 
 and it lasts six months. We have been put to considerable expense 
 in being obliged to have the suit continually pressed, because of 
 the inferior quality of material used. At the end of six months 
 it is practically worthless and is discarded. Our resolution is, no 
 more cheap clothes. 
 
 The next time we visit our tailor he is amused. He tells us 
 that we got our money's worth, but we made a poor investment. 
 He shows us a number of samples which range in price from forty 
 to sixty dollars. Our first impulse is to order the sixty dollar suit 
 
 91 
 
92 THE SMALL HOUSE FOR MODERATE INCOME 
 
 to be on the safe side. Then our tailor becomes diplomatic. He 
 knows that we were disappointed in the ten dollar suit, but he 
 wants our trade and prefers to be honest with us, for he finds, in 
 the long run, that honesty is his best advertisement. He is willing 
 for us to have the sixty dollar suit if we want it, but he is frank in 
 saying that the forty-five or fifty dollar suit will give us just as good 
 service. It will last just as long, look as well, and we will be 
 satisfied in the end that his judgment was best. 
 
 And so it is with the building of houses. A literally cheap house 
 is the poorest kind of economy, and a poorly built house will prove 
 the very bane of the owner's existence. The cost of constant re- 
 pairs on such a house will soon offset the difference in price between 
 good material and material of inferior quality. It is every one's 
 impulse to accept the lowest estimate submitted by contractors, but 
 it is not always the wisest plan to do so. Our reason for obtaining 
 several estimates is to place the house in fair competition. To be 
 sure, there are specifications to be followed and lived up to, but 
 the integrity of the contractor is an important consideration. Few 
 of us have had sufficient experience to know values, and even 
 though the architect is conscientious in his specifications for ma- 
 terials, it is impossible for us to watch the work closely enough 
 to see that his instructions are carried out. I do not mean to sug- 
 gest that contractors are dishonest in their dealings. However, 
 they are too often forced to cut their estimates in order to get the 
 work. Again, specifications in many instances are merely general, 
 and the interpretation depends upon the integrity of the contractor. 
 
TECHNICAL POINTS IN HOUSE BUILDING 93 
 
 In the matter of exterior construction and the materials used 
 the danger of inferior work is not great. If it is a frame house, 
 cross sections of the wall construction are given and must be accu- 
 rately followed. The wood, painting, and finishing are all defi- 
 nitely specified by the architect. In building the plaster house 
 care should be taken that the ingredients of the plaster or stucco 
 specified by the architect are used. Inferior plaster work will 
 lead to trouble; it will crack and peel under certain weather 
 conditions. 
 
 There is no danger, however, in good plaster work. For the 
 last ten years experiments have been constantly made so that to- 
 day plaster may be entirely depended upon as a reliable build- 
 ing material. The charming effects to be obtained by the use of 
 plaster as a building material are unlimited, and the constant 
 increase in the building of the plaster house is a good proof of its 
 reliability. 
 
 Although there is considerable difference in the use of materials 
 in various parts of the country, due to local conditions, the general 
 specifications for house building are very much the same the coun- 
 try over. 
 
 Red or white cedar shingles are universally used for roofing, 
 unless a tile or slate roof is called for, which is considerably more 
 expensive than a shingle roof. If the roof is stained, the red cedar 
 is used. Many roofs are left unstained, and in time will take on 
 a silver-gray tone from weather exposure. In this case, white 
 cedar shingles should be used. 
 
94 THE SMALL HOUSE FOR MODERATE INCOME 
 
 It is a great mistake to economize on floors. A good floor more 
 than compensates the owner for the extra cost in comparison to 
 the floor where a cheap, soft wood is used. A number one quality 
 of comb grain pine is satisfactory for all floors. However, pine 
 is often used on the second floor and oak on the first floor. Soft 
 woods are a constant worry and expense to keep in condition and 
 repair. 
 
 If white painted woodwork is desired, the close grained woods 
 should always be used, whitewood or white cedar being prefera- 
 ble. Any wood, in fact, that hasn't a hard yellow grain may be 
 successfully employed. If a hard grained wood is used, unless 
 it is of even texture, such as birch, it will be impossible to cover 
 the grain, no matter how many coats of paint are applied. If 
 stained wood is required, the matter of grain is not important. 
 Chestnut will take an excellent finish, cypress may also be success- 
 fully used, and oak is always dependable. In the far West Ore- 
 gon pine, flash grain, is largely employed for stained woodwork 
 and resembles the Eastern selected North Carolina pine. 
 
 In the matter of heat, we can make our choice between hot air, 
 hot water, or steam. Our choice is dependent upon climatic con- 
 ditions. In the far West, where but little severe weather is ex- 
 perienced, hot air is general. In the North and Northwest, where 
 long, cold winters are the rule, hot water and steam are often neces- 
 sary. As a matter of cost, hot water is the most expensive to install, 
 with the exception of a Vapor Vacuum System, which is generally 
 accepted to be the most perfect heating system. Hot air is the 
 
TECHNICAL POINTS IN HOUSE BUILDING 95 
 
 least expensive heat for the small house and steam strikes the happy 
 medium between hot air and hot water. 
 
 The choice of plumbing fixtures is largely a matter to be deter- 
 mined by the owner. There are many grades which are to be had 
 at varying costs. Like the purchase of the ten dollar suit, it is 
 unwise to use too cheap a quality. The usual method employed 
 in specifications is to allow a certain amount to cover the cost of 
 hardware and plumbing fixtures — the selection to be made by the 
 owner. If the owner is desirous of obtaining definite specifica- 
 tions for these items, the architect is always willing to supply them. 
 However, clients, as a rule, prefer to make their own selection and 
 can use the stipulated amount as a guide to quality. 
 
 The questions pertaining to interior effects, such as paneled 
 rooms, fireplace designs, and built-in furniture, are usually de- 
 cided upon by the client and incorporated in the plan by the 
 architect. In my own plans I always supply detail drawings and 
 specifications for mantels and all interior trim. Stock mantels, 
 with the exception of those in the more expensive lines, are usually 
 of very inferior design, so much so that the architects make a rule 
 of avoiding them. However, this is always a debatable point. 
 The architect would be glad to use the stock mantel if the manu- 
 facturer would meet his demands in regard to suitable designs. 
 For some years the manufacturers of stock mantels have been so 
 commercial in their policy that they have failed to realize that 
 there is an ever-increasing demand for mantels of intelligent de- 
 sign. They are apt to argue that the demand for better material 
 
96 THE SMALL HOUSE FOR MODERATE INCOME 
 
 is not sufficient to warrant a change of policy, and are attempting 
 to sell, to-day, the ugly patterns which were in vogue twenty years 
 ago. The term "stock" applied to anything in connection with 
 house building is usually avoided, because of the inferior designs 
 which are ofifered. 
 
 A general knowledge of these points will be a valuable asset on 
 the part of any one who contemplates the building of a house. 
 Many mistakes in house building are due to the owner's lack of 
 intelligence in technical matters. A mistake avoided is, in every 
 sense, better than a mistake corrected. There should be a com- 
 plete understanding between client, architect and contractor be- 
 fore the ground is broken, and all definite points cleared up as far 
 as possible before the work is begun. In many cases it is neces- 
 sary for the client to rely on the architect's judgment in technical 
 matters, but, at least, an agreement should be effected. I have 
 seen many clients disappointed in the building of houses, for the 
 simple reason that they were too optimistic and would not bother 
 to obtain a clear understanding of the whole situation. 
 
 There are, naturally, many unforeseen difficulties which come 
 up in house building which have to be met, and in the majority 
 of cases they are unavoidable. Such cases call for reasonable 
 dealings on the part of everyone concerned. All building has its 
 precarious side, and the client cannot expect to avoid the many 
 little annoyances which, no matter how slight or trivial, are bound 
 to occur.