Living On Water

A must-have for architecture lovers.

Water. Essential to life and essential to (relaxed) living. Nothing comes quite close to a modern home built on the shores of a lake, at the seaside, or alongside a sweeping pool that mirrors the clear blue sky. Created and edited by Phaidon editors, Living On Water: Contemporary Houses Framed By Water showcases a selection of stunning homes. As the title suggests, all have a special relationship with water and nature. The 55 houses featured in the book revolve around this fundamental element, whether they’re built the US or in another country. Inspiring and striking, the residential architecture creates a dialogue between man-made structures and water. Oceans, mountain lakes, rivers, and pools all help to define the homes and reveal their essence of their design.

Although clearly connected by their proximity to water and their contemporary architecture, every house has a distinctive character and a unique way of interacting with the natural landscapes. A large home with several linked volumes occupies a part of a lush riverside. A beach house features a glazed wall that overlooks the sea. Likewise, a resort in Norway allows travelers to relax while admiring a coastal landscape through a glass facade. Farther away south and perched high above the water, a brutalist house provides views of the Lake Maggiore.

The book features three main chapters. Built To Look At Water includes dwellings which provide water views, while Built On Water takes the concept to a whole new level. Finally, Built To Reflect Water features houses that reflect their image onto the surface of water, with a mesmerizing effect. Recently launched, the hardcover book has 272 pages as well as 341 illustrations. Text that offers information about the location and architecture studio accompanies each house, with details about the concept, materials, and design also included. Buy here. Photographs© Phaidon.