Interior Design Books

This book is a piece of America. Back to basics. Simple and well planned. When you want to touch base and realize the simplicity of a home you will look for this helpful and complete guide. Sandra is a real asset when it comes to easy living. Thanks for sharing.

ON THE PORCH: CREATING YOUR PLACE TO WATCH THE WORLD GO BY discusses the ambiance and design of the home porch with an eye to surveying how a porch added to a home can change its atmosphere. It's the first book on the market devoted to porches alone and covers an extensive range, from assessing different types of porches for different purposes to design, construction, and maintenance. Everything from furnishings to lighting is reviewed in this in-depth, well detailed guide perfect for any library strong in interior design or homeowner hints.

Diane C. Donovan
California Bookwatch

This book is very well written and gives good, practical advice which should be considered when you are planning to build or remodel a porch addition to your house. It gives types and styles to choose from.
Some of these are huge projects that I would need to mortage my house for or sell some property or inherit some money to do but I still enjoyed reading about them.
Definite read if you are planning a porch!

I picked up a copy of this book because my husband and I want to remodel our unused dark & uncomfortable back porch. We were able to get some great design ideas that will help us increase our entertaining space because we will actually be able to use our porch for summer parties. Also, great tips and ideas for furnishing the new space. Of all the design and remodeling books that I looked at, "On The Porch", was the best at answering my questions and offering ideas!

Do you sometimes think to yourself when you're doing a project, "I wouldn't mind doing this for a career." Then the one question you must definitely ask yourself is, "What procedures must I take in order to develop a career out of my talent?" This book can get you started in the right direction.

Opportunities in Arts and Crafts Careers offers you a clear understanding about the various careers available, the skills needed, and how to get started. I wanted to read this book to find out if it would help out fellow woodworkers who would like to pursue a career with their skills, and if it had information for them to get started in one. I've found that not only does it provide information for these two avenues, but also an understanding of the history of the craft.

I extremely recommend this book for those who would like to seek a career in the arts and crafts. Elizabeth B. Gardner has performed an exceptional measure of research, in order to write this book with the facts provided in it.

Excellent advice on how to pursue careers in the arts and crafts fields and professions. It is practical and fun to read especially since so many opportunities in these fields are discussed. The histories of these fields are very good as are the processes involved. It makes one want to pursue one's interest in arts and crafts!

This book is a valuable guide for students considering a career in the arts. Each career path includes a brief history, a description of the actual processes involved in the work and discusses training options and job potentials. A particular strength of the book lies in including some of the more unusual crafts like book binding, stained glass design and weaving.

I applaud Elizabeth Gardner for authoring Opportunities in Arts and Crafts Careers. This book is a very engaging and accessible reference to a multitude of careers that are too often overlooked by students, their teachers, parents, and counselors. The book covers a broad scope of career opportunities including fine art, applied art or design, and craft. The result is a career reference book with great collective strength.

Pulled from the archives of the legendary interior design firm, PARISH HADLEY, SIXTY YEARS OF AMERICAN DESIGN was published in 1995, the year after Sister Parish's death at age 84 -- or 91, depending. Unfortunately, failing health apparently prevented her active participation in the book but previous interviews and recordings, along with anecdotes from employees, provided information. Of course, long-time business partner Albert Hadley, still in practice now on his own at age 87, was able to help make a fitting tribute to the firm, one of the country's finest in its heyday. Sadly, Parish-Hadley is now defunct, ruined by the last associates before the Millenium.

Although no photographs were done expressley for the book, the projects that did have a shot or two are interesting studies. After the first section on Parish and Hadley, the second part shows examples of rooms in the categories of Arrivals, Living Rooms, Dining Rooms, Libraries, Bedrooms, and Garden Rooms. The third part tells the story of the decoration of the family rooms of the Kennedy White House, complete with documentary photos. And the fourth part shows multiple homes of various clients, most famous, all rich.

In the sixty years, undoubtedly there were many incredible projects that were not photographed for reasons of privacy and it is a shame for the readers and for the sake of a record that not even a mention is made of these. Evidently either Parish or Hadley at least supervised the projects pictured here. However, the strong back-up of talented assistant decorators, such as Bunny Williams, Kevin McNamara, David Easton, Brian McCarthy and David Kleinberg, who later went on to successful careers on their own, are only minimally mentioned if at all. And nothing is mentioned of the in-staff architects, Michael Shell, David McMahon, Paul Engel, John Tackett and Mark Ferguson among others, under the direction of vice-president Harold Simmons, who provided the magnificent "bones" of so many of the projects in the zenith years of the firm; all left before the downfall to start successful practices of their own. A listing of projects with their locations and dates would have been interesting, as would have been a write-up on the talent that trained at the firm. And strangely, there are none of the famous Albert Hadley sketches or renderings of any kind.

Although flawed and much less than it could have/should have been, this book is none-the-less an excellent reference for all interested in traditional residential design. Without a doubt, a MUST HAVE for all decorating libraries.

A beautiful book, certainly more valuable than a mere 'coffee table' book. If one is serious about interior design, seeing and understanding what these amazing people did to the art is imperative. The photographs show rooms that will stand the test of time and make you salivate over the treasures. What an incredible legacy they have, american design owes them beyond measure.

I borrowed this remarkable book from the library, and it's a treasure. Many years ago Sister Parrish, the chintz-loving society decorator who helped Jackie redo the White House, teamed up with Albert Hadley, a polite genius of timeless, clean design and proportion.

The result of this union of opposites was a partnership made in decorating heaven. In fact, the "marriage" produced wonderful offspring: Marriette Himes Gomez and Mark Hampton both got their start here.

If you'd like to see how many of the top American names of the 20th century lived, Jackie, Nelson Rockefeller, Babe Paley, it's all here. And if you'd like in depth exposure to the design principles of two American masters, you couldn't ask for a better source.

What a shame this out of print book costs $250. If it were $50 I'd buy it in a one-click minute. Attention book publishers, you need to reissue this book for the design-starving masses.

A beautiful book, certainly more valuable than a mere 'coffee table' book. If one is serious about interior design, seeing and understanding what these amazing people did to the art is imperative. The photographs show rooms that will stand the test of time and make you salivate over the treasures. What an incredible legacy they have, american design owes them beyond measure.

This is an awesome book. Not only is it a great shower gift but I gave them to single friends and married couples. It makes a lovely anniversary gift. I have already used my copy several times and I am married for 35 years! You can always learn new things about dinner parties, decorating ideas and how to make a cosmopolitan.Party Basics for New Nesters: More Than 100 Fresh Ideas for Holidays and Every Day

What a fabulous book, Maria has done it yet again. As a new nester myself ( not married, but single in a new home) I have to tell you this book is not only the perfect addition to my coffee table, but has given me the courage to invite people over and feel like I have all the pieces in place for a fabulous party. All of Maria's party planning ideas are done with greatest attention to detail, that I know my guests will appreciate and definitely comment on! A celebration planning guide that will take you from start to finish, all year-round.
Definitely the most stylish gift for any housewarming party!

This book is amazing in every way! I just pulled off a dinner party that could have been a nightmare without this guide. I wanted everything to be perfect, and it was. The photos are exquisite and gave me great ideas that are actually do-able. Most helpful were Maria's tips on stocking up on party basics. A must have for all of those who stress before hosting any event- big or small.

I bought this book for my newly married daughter. But of course, I had to sneak a peek for myself! The book is warm and "user friendly"! Maria makes everything look easy and fun to do. Not only is this a book that you would use over and over again for ideas, it would look fabulous on any coffee table.
Thumbs up!

Norman McGrath demonstrates what mastering architectural photography is all about. This book is, for a start, properly printed - by this i mean, so many current books on photography are poorly reproducing images. Here, we have a reference point for print results, to start with.
Then , yes, this book is not a step by step, how to, recipe like book, but advises, tips and trick abound, nonetheless. You just need to read slowly, and follow the author in his presentation.
By "reading slowly" Norman does share a lot of insights, secrets, howtos, etc. but there are not obviously highlighted. The gems are scattered in plain text.

The only downside is that the book is not current with 2008 digital photography.

So, i do hope we'll have a new edition coming soon.

It is the perfect balance between architecture and photography. It has helped me tremendously. By the way, if you're looking for a book on how to use your view camera this is not it.

Norman McGrath's PHOTOGRAPHING BUILDINGS INSIDE AND OUT (2ND EDITITON) is an excellent source for information. While view cameras are the way to go, they are not always the most convienient. McGrath discusses equipment selection - camera, lenses, tripods, heads, meters, filters and film. His case studies (taken from his portfolio) show a body of work and what was done to due to the existing conditions: tight spaces, different light temperatures, auxiliary lighting, etc. He also discussed different perspectives of the same room/building, as well as prop suggestions to complement the subject.

It has been said that "Architecture is in the details" so, too, is it with photography. His "numerous case studies to illustrate his methods and techniques... clearly explains his objectives for each shoot and demonstrates how, with attention to the smallest deatails, he achieves successful results every time." (Excerpt taken from the back cover.)

As a designer, I found it very helpful in photographing my own work for my portfolio as well as capturing the spirit of the place. I highly recommend it to anyone interested in photographing architecture and/or interiors for fun or profit.

Anthony

McGrath is one of the most well-published architectural photographers of recent memory, and this book does a great job of highlighting his work in a variety of situations. Unfortunately, this book tends at times to become more of McGrath's portfolio and less a guide to the art and technique of architectural photography. Worth getting just to look at the photos, but also get either Gerry Kopelow's or Michael Harris's books for another perspective.

Written by a mother and daughter team, this like their earlier book, The Pocket Decorator, was born out of necessity. Leslie was totally remodeling her condo and wanted to know and use the correct terms when talking with the various craftsman.

Designed for anyone remodeling, renovating or building, this book is a tremendous resource. The terms are listed alphabetically to allow easy access.

I loved their tips for "smooth sailing" when working with construction people. Their suggestion is to work as a team as much as possible with architect, builder and designer. They suggest you learn the symbols used on a design plan so you understand what is being done and where.

Not only do we learn a term, each has an illustration-and when relevant, we can read about its history and how the word was derived.

Do you know the different between undermounted and drop-in sinks? I do now. Each has a different look and demands certain know-how when being installed. What do you know about toilet heights, shapes and flush/water efficiency?

The chapters cover construction issues like cabinetry and built-in furniture, interior layouts, kitchen, baths and vital systems like heating, cooling, etc.

The authors also added four newly important areas: green design, safe and healthy home, financing and real estate transactions.

I found the safe and healthy house interesting as it covered the toxic things in our homes like lead, carbon monoxide, asbestos, mold and radon, as well as smoke alarms and fire extinguishers.

This writing team is very thorough. If it isn't in this book, I wonder if the average homeowner really needs it.

The Pocket Renovator would make a great gift for yourself and anyone who is buying their first home, building a new one or remodeling/renovating. Carry the book with you in case someone uses an unfamiliar building term.

Armchair Interviews says: With The Pocket Renovator, you will have the answer at your fingertips.

First off, do not buy this book if you are looking for a how to book. This guide is not intended to show you how to complete a project. It is intended to show you, the average homeowner, with little or no construction experience what materials and techniques are available to do projects around the home. The authors cover a broad range of subjects, but not in depth. This book will enable you to communicate more effectively with your architect, builder or home improvement contractor.They cover alot in 200 pages, however there is so much to know in this field, that you could spend 200 pages alone on one subject such as fireplace techniques. However, for its intended purpose I rate it 5 stars.

An extremely useful reference guide for navigating the jargon of renovation and construction. A visual dictionary, the book helps you figure out what it is you're looking for by matching illustrations with terminology. Now, when your contractor asks whether you want your new sink to be drop-in or undermount, you'll understand what he means. The entries frequently contain useful guidance points and tips, though that's not the primary point of this book. I really enjoyed the Pocket Decorator, this team's previous book, and am glad to see they've pulled off another success.

This is a wonderful resource to have on hand when experiencing all aspects of a home renovation. To be able to speak the same language as your contractor is priceless, and to understand what he is talking about makes all of the difference. Built-ins, cabinetry, bathroom and kitchen projects, etc. are all addressed in this handy book. The book includes all sorts of vocabulary previously foreign to me, and is written in a refreshing, accesible style. Would be a great gift too.

I've owned this book for years & I return to it regularly. There is something magical about this book. Although most of us will never experience living in a Provence villa, the photography takes you away & it is absoultely wonderful to look at. Every page offers delightful discoveries. This book has it all and is by far my favorite interior design book in my collection.

I have never been there, but through samplings such as this treasure of a book, I have seen on print what I most want to see: Provence! This "gift" presents the reader with the best views of interiors that I am aware of. I have combed my library and bookstores for views of Provence for almost forever. This book almost makes me cry, I long to see it so! Until I do, this sumptuous look at this magical region is availble in this outstanding book. I am SO glad I have my copy!

In this rich photographic essay of interiors in Provence, Lovatt-Smith captures the design, style, essence, texture, life and breath of this magical location and its occupant's beautiful interiors.

This book is a gorgeously photographed journey into the homes of wealthy and/or very stylish residents of Provence. Not a book of typical 'French Country Interiors', it covers a wide range of styles from super modern to 17th century grandeur, from 'to the manor born', to gypsy caravans (stunning). As with all things French I adore the way they so gracefully combine the old and the new. These are for the most part not homes that were 'designed', but instead homes that 'grew' with thier owners over time. This book is one of a series of books by this publisher/editor team and they are all wonderful. I have this one, the book on Indian Interiors, the book on Moroccan Interiors (my favorite) and the one on Tuscan Interiors. Each of these books is pure quality. The photography, the variety of well chosen homes, the layout and design of the books, including paper quality, binding etc. is superb. There isn't one aspect of any of these books, including this one, that is run-of-the-mill or poorly conceived. If you are interested in Provencial style, creative interiors, use of colour and texture, and French Culture, you will adore this book. It is without a doubt the best book on French Interiors that I have found.

So many Provence house books show plenty of details, but this book's strength is the profusion of color throughout. We took it with us to the tile store and could easily see by opening any page what tones, hues are truly Provencal and would work in our new house.

Wonderful photos! An inside peek at many inspiring homes! Vibrant colors and rich textures! Beautiful and informative. It's almost as much fun as an actual visit to Provence.

A beautiful book, full of concise details and suggestions for decorating your home to evoke Provence.

Provence Style is a beautiful book. Reading this book is like traveling through the Provence country. It describes the types of Provence houses with the illustration of beautiful pictures. You will feel the ambiance of the outdoors as well as the cozy aspects of the indoors. You will almost smell the lavender fields from the terrace pictures! And your visit will show you incredible flooring, original fireplaces, delicate furniture and other traditional elements of the Provence style.
Our preference is biased toward the ceramics, especially the Moustiers ones, and the fabrics. Provence fabrics are so colorful and playful! Also, the Boutis, a white quilting method is presented here with a picture of its transparency through light.

The book was published more than 10 years ago and it's making its own history by the exclusive way of combining profound theoretical essays and design works together seamlessly. I have to say it works pretty well. Having seen Steven Holl's works and the office expanded, this book and the design deserve more attention than other cheap building constituted with meaningless idea and shallow skins.

Excellent essays but the typesetting makes it a difficult read (the font is extremely small.)

Architects and students who are bored to death by OMA, MVRDV, Hadid, and the rest of the New Postmodernists will find consolation -- and inspiration -- in this book.

"Questions of Perception" was originally printed in July 1994, as a special issue of the architectural journal A+U. Back issues have been sold out for some time, and until recently, buying a used copy of the book would have set you back a couple hundred dollars. I'm very glad to see that the publishers of A+U decided to reprint these important essays.

Rather than serving as a polemical manifesto, or another boring iteration of reactionary academic theory, the authors discuss the experience of architecture on a basic psychophysiological level. Unlike the work of many of today's starchitects, this book will never seem dated, because it is focused on human constants -- the way that our minds and bodies respond to space, light, texture, color, and other architectural fundamentals. It is not a manual of style, or a collection of glossy photos for you to copy in your next project. It requires active thought. It requires an attention span. You have to absorb the meaning of the writings, not just look at computer renderings with copy+pasted supermodel silhouettes. It has nothing to do with urbanism, globalism, terrorism, or any of the other "isms" that hopeless, clueless, talentless academics increasingly try to link to the building and construction industry. Instead, it's a quiet reflection on the ways that buildings (and natural environments) shape our daily experiences. Even though 13 years have passed since these essays were written, they are still highly relevant for any designer who wants to infuse their work with quality and honesty.

As far as I can tell, the book's design is identical to the 1994 version, with the exception of the cover artwork. I must admit that $50 is a bit pricey for a book that is so plainly printed and bound. Regardless, it's better than paying a couple hundred dollars for a used copy of the original. And, all things considered, it's only a few dollars more than something like S,M,L,XL. So if you're tired of pretentious, pedantic academese, and you're ready to read something with permanence and substance, do yourself a favor and buy "Questions of Perception" instead.

Anything, of course, is about the sensorial. It's our world. It's your world. What do you feel in it? What do I feel when I'm there, in a space? And this meditation -- regardless of what that space might be -- is really about everything, from architecturally conceived environments, to the nature of truly "natural" space. There is the potential in all, to contemplate the spirit of the space and the character of your presence in it. You are there, you are "in there". And you feel the warmth, the chill, the stillness, the breeze; you experience the scent drifting; you see light, shafts of movement; you hear something of reverberation in the containment of "where you are". Taste might play, balance might offer a sensed component to experience. But it's all about the meditation of what this means, how it can be considered - and how it can be reflected in active design, or in the nature of contemplating this phenom. Either it's meaning full -- and you consider it; or it's not the stuff of absorbed introspection and you simply design for it. Do it. Experience it. One way. Or an other. Surely, both have merit. As does reading this grouping of essays and ideas.