On a remote island, among sand dunes, adjacent to a lake, and on a rocky beachthese are just some of the stunning sites of the architect-designed contemporary houses featured in this celebration ofgetaways that connect strongly with nature.Renowned architecture and design commentator Stephen Crafti takes us on a private tour of residential getaways across the US and Canada, Australia, Italy, and New Zealand. Some second homes, such as a luxury yacht designed by architect Stephen Jolson, spare no amenity, mirroring the type of kitchen one would find in a house firmly anchored to the ground, rather than moored at a jetty. Others, such as a home by Bongiana Architetture on the outskirts of Padua in northern Italy, have a raw, almost industrial aesthetic.Sumptuous photography is juxtaposed with architectural drawings and floor plans, making this book an inspirational resource for architects and designers, as well as anyone seeking to build their own second home.By Stephen CraftiStephen Crafti started writing on architecture and design in the early 1990s after purchasing a modernist 1950s home in the Melbourne suburb of North Balwyn. Now with over 40 books produced, he continues to write for leading newspapers and magazines in Australia and overseas.300 color and b/w imagesA Different Way of Living300 color and b/w images