Reviews of Don's books are randomly selected from various sources and displayed below. Refresh this page for a different selection.

So You Want to Build a House

Don Lohnes' "So You Want to Build a House" is an invaluable guide for anyone dreaming of building their ideal home. What I found most impressive is how the book delves into essential details like soil types, site orientation for optimal sunlight, and even the dynamics of your future neighborhood. Lohnes doesn't just stop at the basics; he walks you through the entire process, from design considerations—like hiring architects and accommodating special needs—to the nitty-gritty of construction, including excavation, framing, and insulation. The chapters on mechanical systems and interior finishes are particularly practical, offering clear advice on creating a functional and energy-efficient living space. Lohnes effectively balances detailed technical information with real-world examples, making it easy to follow even if you're a first-timer. If you're planning to build a home, this guide is a must-read.

Samantha Dempsey, Goodreads

The opening pages of "So You Want to Build a House" deeply resonate with me. They capture the mix of excitement and nervousness that comes with starting a home-building journey. When my partner and I decided to build our own home, we felt overwhelmed by the countless decisions and details. Lohnes' emphasis on thorough preparation and planning became our guiding principle.

The book's advice on considering long-term plans—whether for raising a family or retirement—hit home. We chose a design that accommodates future needs, ensuring our home remains functional as our family grows. Lohnes' insights into project management were invaluable; we hired specialists for various phases, reducing stress and keeping the project on track.

The foreword's personal story about laying a solid foundation reminded us to focus on planning, avoiding common pitfalls. Additionally, the book acknowledges that buying an existing home is a viable option, giving us confidence in our choice to build.

Diane Carlson, Goodreads

First, think about where you want to build. The land matters—whether it's flat or sloped, and what kind of soil it has. Lohnes explains all this. Next, choosing an architect or designer can be overwhelming. But fear not! Lohnes guides you through the process. He also covers building codes (those rules you need to follow), excavation (preparing the ground), and different ways to build floors and walls. And don't forget about windows, doors, and electrical stuff. Lohnes has tips for those too. Lastly, he talks about financing your home and gives a sample construction schedule. In a nutshell, this book is like chatting with a wise friend who's been there. It's practical, helpful, and inspiring. So grab your hard hat and dive in!

Sandra Hunt, Goodreads

Architect

Major Reviews of Architect: Barnes Book Review, London Book Review, Miami Book Review,
Toronto Book Review

YouTube Video

Don Lohnes' book "Architect" should be required reading for every first year architecture student. In a novel format the book follows the journey of an architect through his life in architecture in Halifax Nova Scotia. From the challenges of building a practice to the "rules of the road" when both developing and overseeing projects is truly insightful. Architect is a both great read and also provides a fascinating behind the scenes overview for any student wishing to enter the profession.

Robb Jarvis ,

Architect by Don Lohnes is a treasure for aspiring architects and anyone interested in the field. The book offers an in-depth look at the architectural profession, covering everything from the educational path to the practical challenges in the industry. Lohnes explores key elements of architectural practice, including design, construction, project management, and the use of technology like computer-aided drafting (CAD). This detailed overview is especially useful for students and early-career architects who want to understand the practical side of the profession.

Lohnes not only provides technical insights but also weaves in stories of resilience and achievement through Lonnie Donaldson's career, making Architect both an engaging read and a practical guide. I was hooked from start to finish, and reading this book left me feeling more confident and content. Kudos to Don Lohnes for crafting such a well-written novel that offers a slice of life in the world of architecture.

Victor Stanley, Goodreads

The author, taking the reader on a trip through his roots in Halifax, the South Shore of Nova Scotia and as a professional architect, mixes reality and fiction in a manner that makes it impossible to distinguish one from the other. He paints a vivid, and in our opinion accurate, picture of Nova Scotia working class life in mid-twentieth century. Very early in the story, he sets the stage around a significant dramatic event that will not be solved until the story is being concluded.

For those people like us, inexperienced with the work of an architect, it is enlightening to see the knowledge, management and personal connections that must fit together to lead and conclude a major construction successfully. However, as the reader learns, even finishing a construction project with outstanding success, does not exclude a major fall out and frightening consequences.

Keith and Kathy Sullivan,