This book is particularly useful as it fills a gap in the available literature on the history of the Thai house, for much has been written about the vernacular house but very little about contemporary houses in Thailand. In varying degrees, the 20 houses featured here demonstrate the architects' deep appreciation of Thai cultural traditions, their awareness of environmental concerns, and the influence of ideas from the West. Two introductory chapters provide useful background material that describe and analyse Thai architectural styles and trends in Thailand in the 20th century. Many full colour illustrations and exquisitely hand-drawn plans are added features of Powell's work. Some of the houses have been featured in Powell's earlier books.