From the Land - (Hardcover)

Book Synopsis

Elegant rusticity meets unpretentious luxury in the work of this award-winning architecture firm. Howard Backen, principal of the architecture firm Backen, Gillam & Kroeger, is at the center of a popular movement in home design that emphasizes elegant simplicity and embraces the rustic charm of natural materials. This volume, the first on his work and that of the firm, is an artful exploration of this aesthetic, featuring farmhouses in the Napa Valley, hilltop homes, seaside retreats, and lakeside hideaways. Throughout the work, a sense of intimacy, warmth, and informality pervades. Natural materials, such as wood, stone, and brick, form the foundations, walls, and ceilings of these subtly luxurious spaces, while nature itself plays a considered role that is at once complementary and also intricately conjoined with the work. Sensitive, alluring, and wonderfully resonant with the suggestion of invitation, the work of Backen, Gillam & Kroeger is both thrilling to the eye and restorative to the soul.

Review Quotes

"From hilltop homes to seaside retreats, nature and design artfully intersect in these elegant, unpretentious spaces. The simplicity and charm of natural materials such as stone and brick provide a sense of warmth and luxury that you'll want in your own home." At Home Magazine

"...the sheer size and weight of the book reflects the enormity of his accomplishments and influence. But it's a beauty filled with images of 38 properties, from wineries to seaside retreats, with images so large, you could believe you've stepped into the house." Napa Valley Register

"..[one of] this fall's highly anticipated design titles from AD100 talent, filled with remarkable spaces and expert advice. Editor and author Daniel P. Gregory surveys the work of California firm Backen, Gillam & Kroeger whose signature rustic aesthetic emphasizes natural materials." Architectural Digest

"This volume...isn't overrun with text or filled with the filler of meaningless black and white snaps, as so many of these books are. Instead clients are mentioned, plans are explained, materials and layouts are discussed. And the placement of each photo is as deliberate as the projects that are highlighted within. Backen understands that powerful architecture is a successful manifestation of the dialogue between structure and surrounding. His work is brave and moving because it demands that we not only look at it, but beyond it." Nintchka.com

"From the Land is an artful exploration of the architecture firm's aesthetic. Throughout the work, a sense of intimacy, warmth, and informality pervades." Editor at Large

"From the Land, a new shelter book by Daniel P. Gregory from Rizzoli, showcases the stunning portfolio of Napa-based architects Backen, Gillam & Kroeger." Gentry Magazine

About the Author

Daniel P. Gregory is former senior home editor of Sunset magazine, author of Cliff May and the Modern Ranch House, and editor-in-chief of Houseplans.com. Diane Keaton is an Academy Award-winning actress, director, and author whose most recent books include House and California Romantica.