John R. DaSilva

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.

In the twelve years since Polhemus Savery DaSilva Architects Builders was formed, the firm has created a significant body of wooden buildings that are rooted in the seaside vernacular of the fabled region of Cape Cod, Martha's Vineyard and Nantucket. As a design/build firm led by architects, Polhemus Savery DaSilva Architects Builders is able to reach a level of aesthetic control not normally associated with light construction today. Each project is approached as an individual work of art and craft specifically associated with its site and client. The eclectic, evolutionary use of architectural history infuses the firm's designs with fresh interpretations of architectural tradition, subtle playfulness, and wit. The compositional and planning strategies ground the work in the vernacular tradition that evolved into the shingle style; the 'architecture of the American summer' to use the words of historian Vincent Scully. The experience of the firm's principal designers, John and Sharon DaSilva, includes several years at Venturi Rauch and Scott Brown and Cesar Pelli and Associates. The book features over twenty houses and a handful of small institutional buildings in photographs by some of the world's best architectural photographers and drawings by the firm. Includes essay by noted architecture writer Michael J. Crosbie.