The AIA and leading house/home publisher The Taunton Press have a new joint imprint that will feature innovative design books aimed at encouraging a greater understanding of residential design.

Books written under the imprint of "AIA/Taunton Press" will be geared toward the general public and focus on how the design process works, how to recognize good residential design, and the role of an architect in creating or remodeling a house. AIA architects recognized for their expertise in residential design will write the books, the first of which—The Distinctive Home: A Vision of Timeless Design, by Jeremiah Eck, FAIA—is slated for release February 2003.

"The Taunton Press is staunchly committed to quality and has been a valuable ally in the effort to raise public awareness of the importance of good design," said AIA Executive Vice President/CEO Norman L. Koonce, FAIA. "I'm confident that the AIA/Taunton books will become known for their ability to inspire readers to seek good design solutions for their homes and lives."

Taunton publishes a number of house design books, including the bestselling Not So Big House by Sarah Susanka, AIA. The independent publisher also produces Fine Homebuilding magazine, through which builders and architects share their expertise on building and remodeling.

"Taunton is proud to collaborate with the AIA," said James Childs, Taunton's book publisher. "Our partnership will continue to popularize architecture and help people understand how design choices affect the quality of life in their homes and communities."

Through the new publishing partnership, Taunton and the AIA will identify topics, architects, and residential projects for each book published under the imprint, focusing on concepts that help readers make intelligent design decisions to improve the comfort and function of their homes. The partnership builds on the strengths of both groups: the AIA will provide the knowledgeable insights of residential architects, and Taunton the publishing expertise to present architectural design concepts though clear prose and high-quality graphics.

Copyright 2002 The American Institute of Architects. All rights reserved.