Not So Big House
A blueprint for the way we really live
What makes a house Not So Big?
Not So Big doesn’t necessarily mean small. It means not as big as you thought you needed. The ideal size for your Not So Big House depends on your financial situation, the size of your family, and your personal preferences.
As a rule of thumb, a Not So Big House is approximately a third smaller than your original goal but about the same price as your original budget. The magic is that although the house is smaller in square footage, it actually feels much bigger. It’s not about living in a small house and getting used to feeling cramped. A Not So Big House feels more spacious than many of its oversized neighbors because it is space with substance, all of it in use every day.
About the Not So Big House Book Series
Sarah Susanka’s best-selling first book, The Not So Big House, has given homeowners the language they need to ask for the house that they want: a house that values quality over quantity, and emphasizes comfort, beauty, and a high level of detail. Each book in the series, from Creating the Not So Big House to Home By Design, to Not So Big Remodeling, is unique and expands upon this message with fresh writing and new projects to illustrate the Not So Big Principles.
Not So Big Principles
Sarah’s Ideabooks on Houzz
Home Professionals Directory
Sarah is pleased to provide a searchable directory of home professionals who embrace the philosophy of designing and building Not So Big.
Homeowners
Looking for a professional to help you design, build, or remodel your home? The Home Professionals Directory is the best place to find someone who is aligned with the Not So Big books and principles.
Home Professionals
If you are involved in home design and improvement and your work is in keeping with Not So Big aims, there is no better way to connect with your ideal clients than to register for the Home Professionals Directory.
Not So Big House News & Events
Once in a while a piece of unexpected publicity arrives in my inbox or over social media that tells a story that no one else has considered until that moment.…
I've always been fascinated by the success of the Sears Kit Homes of the early 20th century. And so, many years ago, I began scheming with Michael Morley—friend, colleague, fellow…
When The Not So Big House was first published in 1998, I frequently encouraged my readers to work with residential architects to design their new homes and remodelings. But I…
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A Few of My Favorite Things
November 30, 2022
Each year, I like to share a few gift ideas drawn from discoveries I’ve made either in the past year, or in previous years. All of them I’ve personally tested and continue to find both useful and/or beautiful. I hope you and your gift recipients enjoy them as much as…
