Dream House On the Prairie is an architect’s journey through several decades, with candid accounts of what went wrong—and what went right—in reconstructing a deteriorating century-old farmhouse. The author reflects on dealing with contractors, carpenters, and crafts persons, and the impact that various tumultuous construction projects had on the family. He recounts experimentations with passive solar design, natural ventilation, wind energy, geo-thermal systems, openings between living spaces, and extensive visual connections to the exterior.
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Paperback Version, standard printing quality — US $18.95
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Deluxe Hardcover (case-wrap), high-quality printing quality — US $58.95
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About the Author
Arvid Osterberg is University Professor at Iowa State University, where he teaches graduate courses on inclusive design and historic preservation in the Department of Architecture. He is a registered architect and holds two degrees in architecture from the University of Illinois and a doctorate in architecture from the University of Michigan.
Praise for the Book
‘Dream House’ is a delight! It almost reads like a novel. You have aspirations, conflicts, villains, humor, surprises, mistakes, dangers, and successes. Who could ask for anything more? [The author] also does an excellent job of clarifying terms and operations that non-builders would not be familiar with.
Bob Boston, Professor of English Emeritus
English Department, Iowa State University
The book is a wonderful documentary of a pilgrimage to remodel, restore, and breathe new life into an old farmhouse on the plains. It is a fun read.
Steve Prater, Architect (retired)
This book is proof that the prairie roots of sustainable design run deep. It shows the passion, determination, and joy that comes with seeing a design vision become reality. Arvid Osterberg is a remarkably sensitive and compassionate architect.
Bruce Bonestroo, Architect
Arvid Osterberg paints the words; he offers ingenuity and heart, like the winding staircase that he calls a masterfully crafted sculpture, we too are “sculpture; living flesh and flaw; beauty, promise, and possibilities.” This book is about a lot more than reclaiming a once ignored building. Thank you, Architect, for reminding us that all of us can live our dreams…
Jim Boardman, Story Teller
Book Details
Publisher : Culicidae Press (September 15, 2022)
Language : English
Paperback : 266 pages
ISBN: 978-1683150404 (paperback)
ISBN: 978-1683150411 (hardcover case-wrap)
ASIN: B0BFJB4TGF (Kindle)
Item Weight : 1.3 pounds (paperback and hardcover case-wrap)
Dimensions : 7 x 0.6 x 10 inches
