Adirondack Style

Finally, one of the few original American architectural styles has been researched, documented, and presented in a subtly exquisite volume. "Adirondack Style," by Ann Stillman O'Leary is more than the familiar coffee-table adornment. It's a serious survey of American culture in the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries as embodied in uniquely American design and craftsmanship. Many people associate "Adirondack style" with the simple, rustic, and eternally stylish Adirondack chair. Knock-offs of varying quality are ubiquitous in every home-furnishings catalog. Adirondack "camps," on the other hand, as O'Leary describes in meticulous detail, were much more than rustic furnishings. The originals were sophisticated, often luxurious, always artfully detailed summer escapes for captains of industry and their families in northeastern New York state from the late 1800s until the Depression. O'Leary chronicles the social history, the (almost lost) art of building with indigenous materials, and the style currently enjoying a renaissance in both restorations and new construction. Gary R. Hall's photographs are warm and luscious, revealing the comfort and eccentricity of each space. Most importantly, Hall and O'Leary have combined their talents to renew enthusiasm for an under-appreciated and, until now, barely examined genre of American craftsmanship. "Adirondack Style" describes an evolution that, unlike revivals that are often pale imitations of their predecessors, continues as builders and artisans interpret its traditions for today and tomorrow.Sara Hart Associate Editor Architecture Magazine

This author has managed to do what others only dream about. Ann Stillman O'Leary has managed to allow us entrance to an exclusive and wonderfully rustic part of the northeast that is captured so beautifully in her words. After completing this book I felt as if I had just had a peaceful afternoon in one of the most breathtaking locations, the Adirondacks. I feel as if I know the owners who shared their camps with us through this book Ann has managed to write from an angle that allows us to walk the woods with her and enjoy all the personal tidbits of the camps owners. I feel as if I'm in on a great secret! An intimate and very personal view of The Adirondacks. This book has soul!! Read it!

Harvey Kaiser, author of the classic book, Great Camps of the Adirondacks, says: "This book is a superb work that will inspire lovers of the Adirondack style. Ann O'Leary brings a contemporary note to the rich history of the region. Future owners, architects, and interior designers will find in this book a wonderful source of information and inspiration."

Adirondack Style is more than a book that just sits on the coffee table waiting to impress your friends; it's fun to read. The places described range from grand old estates to new owner-built homes, and there's advice (and sources) for capturing your own northwoods look.