Name: The Not So Big House: A Blueprint for the Way We Really Live by Sarah Susanka
Rating: 4
Author: Sarah Susanka
ISBN: 1600851509

Question 1

Is The Not So Big House: A Blueprint for the Way We Really Live by Sarah Susanka worth reading in 2026?

Accepted Answer

Based on my 4.0/5 rating, this book remains highly relevant for anyone interested in thoughtful home design and sustainable living. Susanka's core message about prioritizing quality over quantity in residential spaces is even more pertinent today as housing costs continue to rise and environmental consciousness grows.

Question 2

Who should read The Not So Big House: A Blueprint for the Way We Really Live?

Accepted Answer

This book is perfect for homeowners, architects, interior designers, and anyone planning to build or renovate a home. It's especially valuable for people who feel overwhelmed by large spaces or want to create more meaningful, functional living environments without focusing on square footage.

Question 3

How does The Not So Big House compare to other home design books?

Accepted Answer

Unlike typical coffee table design books focused on visual inspiration, Susanka's work is a philosophical manifesto that challenges conventional thinking about residential architecture. It offers practical principles rather than just pretty pictures, making it more actionable than most design books on the market.

Question 4

What is the main takeaway from The Not So Big House by Sarah Susanka?

Accepted Answer

The central message is that homes should prioritize soul and functionality over sheer size, as captured in Susanka's opening line: 'So many houses, so big with so little soul.' She advocates for designing spaces that truly reflect how we live rather than impressing others with square footage.

Question 5

What specific design principles does The Not So Big House teach?

Accepted Answer

Susanka focuses on creating intimate, well-proportioned spaces that serve multiple functions and reflect the inhabitants' lifestyle. The book emphasizes quality materials, thoughtful lighting, and designing rooms that flow naturally together rather than creating oversized, underutilized spaces.

Question 6

At $21.61, is The Not So Big House: A Blueprint for the Way We Really Live worth buying?

Accepted Answer

Yes, the price point is reasonable for a book that can fundamentally change how you think about living spaces and potentially save thousands on unnecessary square footage. The investment pays off if you're planning any home-related decisions, from buying to building to renovating.

Question 7

Is The Not So Big House still relevant nearly 30 years after its 1998 publication?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely - the book's core principles have become even more important as housing affordability worsens and sustainability concerns grow. Susanka's ideas about mindful living and efficient space usage feel prescient rather than dated, making this a timeless rather than trendy read.