Shingle Style Houses

A visual survey and detailed overview of contemporary and historic shingle-style homes across North America.

Shingle Style Houses: The Evolution of an Inventive Architecture documents 27 thoughtfully designed homes that embody and reimagine the enduring principles of the shingle style. Author John DaSilva—a practicing architect with over four decades of experience—presents both original historical masterpieces and inventive contemporary interpretations of this classic American style. In addition to showcasing homes across the Northeast, South, Midwest, California, and Canada, the book offers a compelling history of the Shingle Style’s roots, key design principles, and stylistic evolution. Readers gain insight into both famous and lesser-known houses, including significant works by McKim, Mead & White, H. H. Richardson, Robert Venturi, and other influential practitioners. Combining architectural analysis, regional context, and thoughtful commentary, this volume is a valuable visual reference and historical resource for professionals and enthusiasts alike. Key Features:

Includes 27 high-quality case studies of shingle-style homes from the 19th century to the present

Includes rarely seen or under-recognized houses, many published for the first time

Authored by a practicing architect with deep expertise and firsthand insights

Offers detailed analysis of form of all aspects of the houses, aesthetics, materials, character, and cultural influence, and also includes informative back matter with illustrations of architectural house plans

Covers homes in multiple regions of the U.S. and Canada, including coastal and inland sites

Combines historical research with contemporary architectural relevance

An essential resource for architects, designers, historians, and homeowners drawn to vernacular American architecture and the artistry of timeless house design.

Author Biography

John R. DaSilva, FAIA, is an architect, author, and the design principal at Polhemus Savery DaSilva. He is a fellow of the American Institute of Architects and has been inducted into the New England Design Hall of Fame. His award-winning work has been published worldwide

Mark Wright, AIA, author of “H. H. Richardson’s House for Reverend Browne, Rediscovered,” is a partner in the firm Wright & Robinson Architects and a MacDowell Fellow. His current research is focused on houses by Robert Venturi and John Charles Olmsted. Bret Morgan is a photographer of architecture, interiors, gardens, and landscapes. He pursued photography professionally after studying architectural history with William H. Jordy at Brown University and earning a master of architecture from Columbia University. He has published multiple books.