Architectural detailing makes a building unique and an architect outstanding. Detail in Contemporary Residential Architecture provides analysis of both the technical and the aesthetic importance of details in the development of contemporary residential architecture. Featuring many of the world's most highly acclaimed architects, the book presents more than 50 of the most recently completed and influential house designs. For each house there are colour photographs, plans of every floor, sections and elevations, as well as numerous construction details. All the drawings are styled in a consistent way to allow for easy comparison. There is also descriptive text and detailed captions for each project, including the location, floor area, client, architectural project team, main consultants and contractors.

Virginia McLeod studied architecture in Australia before practising for a number of years in Sydney. She moved to the UK in 1998 to work for various private practices in London and was also the editor of The Phaidon Atlas of Contemporary World Architecture. She currently works as a freelance writer and editor, specializing in contemporary architecture.