Gil Schafer, fellow Board member of the Institute of Classical Architecture and Art, incredible architect and friend, has just released his first book, THE GREAT AMERICAN HOUSE. We have seen and admired Gil’s projects published in the shelter magazines for years and eagerly awaited a view into his full portfolio of  American historic and classical houses. Gil’s great success comes from two important personal characteristics; he is an exceptional listener and he is wonderful collaborator. While a client may express the desire to live in a traditional setting, Gil is able to suggest alternative layouts to accommodate a more modern lifestyle. He will certainly give the house its appropriate traditional architectural details and materials but readjust the more formal and restricted layout to one that is more open and family friendly.