This Damn House:: My Subcontract with America

Those seeking to renovate their homes would do well to consult this amusing saga in order to be forewarned of the pitfalls. Kaufman, an author (1-800-Am I Nuts?) and radio commentator, together with her husband, Duke, consulted for nine months with a variety of architects and contractors to plan the renovation of their dark and dreary beach bungalow in Venice, California. Then they endured 10 harrowing weeks of chaos wrought by construction workers, painters and building inspectors, and spent twice as much as they originally budgeted. Although Kaufman's beleaguered tone and judgmental attitude toward her unconventional beach neighbors occasionally wear thin, many of her anecdotes have wit and bite. After the remodeling, Kaufman decided she was too uncomfortable with the neighborhood to remain and sold her ""perfect little jewel."" She and her husband now live near the Santa Monica beach--in a house that needs to be remodeled. Illustrations. Author tour. (Mar.)