The class of conveniences known as modern improvements - meaning thereby plumbing, heating, and lighting systems, the installation of mechanical power to be used for pumps, washing machines, mangles, vacuum cleaners, and the like - may properly be discussed only by experts who have special knowledge of them. The practical aspect of most of these improvemerits has been widely discussed in books and pamphlets, so that any householder may become informed before installing such improvements in the home.

Exterior Design (Plates I And II)

In order to be a success, a country house must be in harmony with its environment. It should appear to have grown on its site, and to be a normal expression of human life in natural surroundings. The house should be in tune with the color and the contour of the landscape. Farm lands which are for the most part flat or rolling, produce contours which are strongly horizontal. Architecture that is appropriate to such landscape should in general be low, broad, and snug. Tall narrow structures are necessary in cities where land is costly and are appropriate in rugged, cliffy countries where nature is replete with vertical surfaces; but they are inappropriate when standing free on a flat site.

Plate II

Appropriate types of architecture for a suburban or country home.