User Ratings and Reviews
5 Stars Something More Than Decor Porn
This is a book I picked up, as I was attracted to the title. I read a review on amazon that said it’s not a book for the home decorator. I disagree, I think it’s a text book style book good for anyone who decorates, and for anyone who needs a guideline of how to present a professional proposal; for the non professional it shows you how approach a project, and organize keep project records and files.
5 Stars One of the Best Reference Books Yet
I bought it because of a reviewer’s comment that headboards should be a certain height above the mattress, something I had not read anywhere else (and was having an issue with pulling a room together). Upon opening it, my initial reaction was similar to “For the Pros, By the Pros” in that you had to have means to appreciate and get benefit from it. But I’ve read it through twice and gotten something different each time. Althought the rooms appear very traditional, as you look through you realize that the art and objects often are very modern. Then you realize the the design basics they lay out can be used with any style. The information covers all the bases (from architectural features, room layout, lighting through furniture, fabrics and decorations) and the order they are presented on are extremely valuable. And while yes, the rooms have stunning woodwork and high ceilings, the principles apply and can be adapted by those on any budget level. It’s like clothing – there are many price points but if you don’t understand the basics, its hard to pull off a cohesive style no matter what your budget is. Two additional things I loved about this book. First, books are incorporated throughout nearly every room and not just in bookcases. Second, I wished I could see even more of a room beyond the edge of a picture, and then I’d find it pictured from a different angle later on in to illustrate another section of the book. As a result, I went back over the pictures with a fresh eye to the design features I might have missed on the first pass. A terrific book.
5 Stars Not your mother’s interior design book
This is not your mother’s book of cookie-cutter interior design ideas…but lookout, she may “borrow” the book. The photography is great, the ideas are fresh and there is something for everyone…only…if you prefer exquisite taste whether casual or formal, elegance without the “do look at me” obvious cost. The rooms evoke the feeling that you “own” it, not that it was “done by a famous decorator with her tell on it” and the element of experienced quality in every aspect of the rooms shown. You will get lost in it in the most pleasant way.
Tags: Book
