New Brazilian house

This catalog of 25 contemporary Brazilian houses is a useful introduction to what Bradbury (Mediterranean Modern) deems a new period in the country's architecture. The text notes how the homes draw inspiration from the country's rich modernist design history and varied geography. Brief, illustrated descriptions of seven iconic Brazilian residences set the scene and provide a ready reference for the work of the modern architects who influenced the contemporary designers featured later in the book. The narratives and photographs of the contemporary structures are divided into three categories: town, country, and coast. Two-page accounts cover the architects' intentions and clients' desires for each house, the historical, geographic, and design context, and bring attention to the materials used in construction, the art on display, or the furniture designers. Newly commissioned color photographs showcase features of each house and the lush interior courtyards, gardens, or surrounding landscape. Although the text adequately depicts the houses, floor plans would have been helpful in understanding the architects' innovative spatial arrangements. Nevertheless, this is a thoughtful and informative tour through some of Brazil's most provocative contemporary houses. VERDICT Of appeal to architects, interior designers, and the design conscious. Amy Trendler, Ball State Univ. Libs., Muncie, IN (c) Copyright 2014. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.