Special Places: Mystery Writer, Magician, California Family (101)Host Amanda Pays introduces David Lindsey, a mystery writer in Austin, Texas. Lindsey always longed for his own library, a room where he could escape when he wants to research or just relax. After saving enough money, he made his dream come true.
Next, meet a magician with a very unique breathing room. As a boy, he was fascinated by the Swiss Family Treehouse at Disneyland. Now, after more than a year of building and designing, his wish has come true with a solar-powered, backyard treehouse modeled after his Craftsman-style home.
Then, drop in on the Schumgers, a couple who wanted a custom-created kitchen and play space to share with their children. After being unable to find the perfect space to suit their needs, they built their own home. Five years later, their stress-free breathing room combines cozy spots for the entire family and a breathtaking view of the Pacific Ocean.
Austin Library Facts:
- Lindsey's book collection includes volumes on literature, art history, psychology and police investigations.
- Photographs of places Lindsey has visited were used in creating the library.
- It took several days to construct each of the concrete arches.
Resources:
Interior Design
by John F. Pile
Color in Interior Design
by John F. Pile
Treehouse Facts:
- More than one year was spent designing and building the treehouse.
- Solar energy-powered night-lights are activated by a timer when it gets dark.
Treehouse Resources:
TreeHouse Workshop, Llc.—experts in suspended foundations offer consultation services on building treehouses.
www.treehouseworkshop.com
EZ Tree House Plans—offers designs which allow you to build a structure surrounding the trunk and limbs that will not inhibit tree growth.
www.treehouseplans.bigstep.com
Home Tree Home: Principles of Treehouse Construction and Other Tall Tales
by Peter Nelson, Gerry Hadden (Contributor)
The Treehouse Book
by Peter Nelson, Judy Nelson, Paul Rocheleau (Photographer), David Larkin (Contributor)
Craftsman Home Resources:
Craftsman Home Website - Arts and Crafts period and Revival home furnishings.
www.craftsmanhome.com
Stickley Style: Arts and Crafts Homes in the Craftsman Tradition
by David M. Cathers, Alexander Vertikoff (Photographer)
More Craftsman Homes: Floor Plans and Illustrations for 78 Mission Style Dwellings
by Gustav Stickley
Schmuger House Facts
- The Schmugers' home is considered part of the hillside and was designed to blend into it.
- Lack of interior walls lends a feeling of spaciousness and accessibility.
- The children are encouraged to make a mess as flooring and other materials are kid-friendly.
Resources:
Great Kitchens: At Home With America's Top Chefs
by Ellen Whitaker, Colleen Mahoney, Wendy Adler Jordan
The Kitchen Idea Book
by Joanne Kellar Bouknight
