Americana: Farmhouses and Manors of Long Island

Americana is a well curated in-depth look at 15 stately Long Island homes and farms. The author, Kyle Marshall, has a design background as well as experience and in depth knowledge of the subject matter and his enthusiasm shines through in the text.

Released 28th Sept 2019 by Schiffer, it's 208 pages and available in hardcover.

Whilst this is certainly a niche book, in that it is limited to a specific geographical location, the gorgeous photography, architectural detailing, interior shots, structural layouts (including historical renovation notes), and broad choice of house subjects will make this an appealing choice for any historical home enthusiast.

These are really gorgeous homes, some brought back from disrepair, some owned, well-loved, and maintained throughout their history. The history and architecture of each of the houses is detailed by the author, interspersed with coordinated exterior and interior room shots. The details are well elucidated by the author, many of which I would have missed without the 'guided tour'. At least some of the included properties are privately held and not (generally) open to the public, so the inside looks are rarefied and exclusive.

I loved seeing the interiors as well as the garden shots. There are wonderful period details, leaded glass windows, beautiful carpets, wonderful antique furniture and more.

This would make a lovely coffee table book as well as an inspiration book for anyone who enjoys interior design. Approximately half of the houses have included floorplans which were enlightening for me, especially seeing where the original structures had been changed and rearranged and rebuilt.

Four stars, some breathtaking photography and masses of detail here (included a further reading list and links which made me swoon).

Disclosure: I received an ARC at no cost from the author/publisher for review purposes