The American Bungalow: 1880-1930

Author: Clay Lancaster

Publisher: Dover, 2012

During the first three decades of the twentieth century, the bungalow ― cozy, comfortable, and easily affordable ― became the most popular home style among middle-class Americans. This fascinating book by a well-known architectural historian explores the bungalow both as an evolving art form and a document reflecting middle-class life in early twentieth-century America.
At a time when land, building materials, and labor were plentiful and cheap, and home ownership fell with reach of the average citizen, the bungalow proved an ideal choice. It comfortably provided the essentials of shelter. It could fit on a modest-sized lot. It was extremely versatile in size, aesthetics, and materials used. It was adaptable to a wide range of weather and climate conditions. And it eminently suited the casual lifestyle of most Americans.
Author Clay Lancaster first explores the origins of the bungalow and chronicles its beginnings in America. He describes the early prototypes built along the Eastern seaboard, the role of the prairie house in the evolution of the bungalow, the unique features of California designs, and many other aspects of the bungalow's rise to popularity in America.

Of special note, the book presents typical bungalow plans, interiors, furnishings, site plans, and garden plans ― and interesting exceptions ― along the way. Over 190 photographs, floor plans, and drawings add great visual appeal and reference value to this illuminating study of the American bungalow and its place in architectural history.

ISBN: 9780486286785