In many towns throughout Mexico, houses still retain blank exteriors facing the street, some with an occasional window. However, beyond these canyon-forming walls, one is exposed to interiors alive with rainbows of color. The front of the house may be one story, but once inside the entrance, a visitor might be exposed to two or more stories, probably with a rooftop terrace and a fantastic view of a downtown skyline. The architecture of the houses reflects eras when Mexico was at peaks in its history and when some buildings were extravagant homes built by famous families. Now they may be occupied by commercial or public venues, but their details reflect the rich quality of architecture that has not diminished with time. Over 240 color photographs present fascinating doors, interior rooms, stairways, fireplaces, lighting, ceilings, floors, and plenty of details that can inspire today's homeowners, architects, and decorators who seek to live with authentic Mexican character.

Sandy Baum has been a professional photographer and pilot for over 40 years. He has been a project manager for residential, retail, and commercial property for 15 years, with orientation to detail that draws attention to items that people normally fail to notice. He is the author of three other books for Schiffer Publishing. He lives in San Miguel de Allende, Mexico.