What is about some houses that makes us long to live there while others leave us cold?  What is making even some very modern houses warm and inviting yet some other cold and almost sterile-like.  Jeremiah Eck, leading residential architect, in his book Distictive Home identifies the four qualities that can turn even the most  ordinary house into a charming, warm and memorable home: good siting, well-designed floor, elegant exterior architecture, and details that transmit an enduring sense of warmth and quality.

To achieve this balance, many are turning to the history and tradition of their own for inspiration in "old house" - themes that will inspire and preserve a sense of place and the feeling of "home." Here are some great examples of well designed and renovated older homes that achieved both modern yet charming and timeless appeal:

Resources and Photo Credits:

Photos: http://www.houzz.com

The Distinctive Home: A Vision of Timeless Design Paperback – Bargain Price, April 11, 2006 by Jeremiah Eck