Living Where Land Meets Sea: The Houses of Polhemus Savery DaSilva

If you are familiar with the works of Polhemus Savery DaSilva, then you know their magazine advertisements are inspiring, save-worthy, perhaps even laminate-level. Design principal John R. DaSilva has authored a supremely satisfying gallery of the firm's work. With. Plans. And not just 1st floor. 35 homes and 1 resort are featured. There is a brief supplemental section of additional projects.The layouts are fantastic, full of photos, and valuable text. PSD's interpretation of the Shingle Style and the Cape Cod exemplify why this Images Publishing masterpiece belongs in the "New Classicists" collection of books. The firm has been around long enough that just a few of the interior shots already appear somewhat dated. But the structures themselves are timeless and compatible with the aforementioned architectural styles.Interior photographs reveal the abundance of natural light, unusual angles, and built-ins that each plan provides. Substantial architectural moldings manage to keep each room casually formal. Mid-century modern furnishings would fit in as well as Shaker, heirloom antiques, or quality reproduction pieces. Stairwells are uncommonly beautiful and highly crafted.Exterior shots are a testament to the firm's respect for the land and the sea. One home sports a miniature lighthouse of sorts, while another resembles an ark that seems to have naturally sprung up among the trees. Another home comes close to being Gothic, yet retains PSD's quintessentially Cape-inspired stylistic elements.Truly, honestly, Living Where Land Meets Sea is worth both its hefty weight and expense. The inclusion of plans will put this publication at the top of many architecture fans' favorites.

as advertised

As someone who knows very little about architecture, I was completely captivated by the work of Polhemus Savery DaSilva in Living Where Land Meets Sea. The book was filled with stunning imagery, informative text and beautiful poetry. I really appreciated how they pointed out and explained some of the smaller architectural details of the homes that might have otherwise been overlooked as well as providing the floor plans. Coastal homes, especially those in New England, have a certain magic to them, and this firm brings it out in every single project. Instead of hindering the ocean views, these homes add to the landscapes. Using the art of poetry to describe these homes, which are works of art in themselves was a very interesting touch that I absolutely loved. You will not be disappointed by this book and you will not be able to put it down!

Flipping through the pages of “Living Where Land Meets Sea” transports me a beautiful summer day in the coastal towns of Cape Cod. Full of unique architecture that is both modern and traditional, I found this publication of Polhemus Savery DaSilva’s work to be impressive and inspiring. This book has it all – from intricate floor plans, to breathtaking exterior views, and interesting snapshots of varying rooms within these fantastic homes. The attention to detail and mastery is apparent as you take in each photograph, and I found myself turning the pages for hours in awe. I highly recommend this book to any and all fans of architecture, as this book is a testament to the incredible architecture created by John DaSilva.

Breathtaking is the only word to describe the homes of Polhemus Savery DaSilva in the book Living Where Land Meets Sea. Of course most of the beauty can be credited to John DaSilva, the mastermind behind these artistically crafted homes, but the lovely sunsets are an added bonus! This book does a wonderful job depicting the architecture of Coastal Southern New England with beautiful photography, large easy to read text and wonderful poetry throughout that gives artistic interpretations to the unique architecture. I would say this book is truly a work of art!

Fabulous book - very inspirational. Particularly like the architectural plans at the back for cross reference. Worth every single penny!

So many beautiful houses! Wonderful style and lots and lots of large photos. Such a pleasure to look through and dream a little. Would make a great gift.