No comments about The New City Home: Smart Solutions for Metro Living.

2 comments about Authentic Decor: The Domestic Interior 1620 - 1920.

1. This is an essential tool for anyone interested in historic European (incl. England) interiors. From a discussion of spatial relationships, to room arrangement, to the minutiae of room decor - ceiling to floor- Thornton describes interiors from 1620 to 1900 with fluidity and wit. The book reads like a good novel, but the information is rock-solid.



2. Authentic Decor: The Domestic Interior 1620-1920, is far more than a history of the evolution of the domestic interior. Written by Peter Thorton, of the Victoria and Albert Museum, it shows first and foremost that an interior is a reflection of its owner. Everyone is well represented in its 408 richly illustrated pages, from the poor, to the middle classes, to the rich & the grand. Much valuable insight is to be gained from reading this book. I have kept it on my coffee table for years and have guarded it with my life, because people are so engrossed by it. I hope that somebody will use all of their powers of persuasion to convince Viking Penguin, Inc. to re- issue this stunning & informative book!

3 comments about The Houseboat Book.

1. This book is beautifully done. Marvelous pictures and descriptions of a variety of houseboats. It gives real insight into a lifestyle that few of us will ever experience. Someday I hope to become a part of this very small but extremely interesting lifestyle...



2. Awesome -- That's all I can say. If you're interested in houseboats for any reason, this is your book.
   History, information, great writing, and awesome photography! This one interests everyone.
   Great coffee table book.
   Kathy -- neighbor to "The Lindner House" featured in the book.
   p.s. If you live in the Portland, Sausalito, or Seattle Houseboat communities, you will especially enjoy this book.



3. I gave this book to a few close friends for the holidays. I have never had such great feedback about a giftbook. The book is not only beautiful to look at, but it contains such great details, history, and stories about houseboats and their owners. I definitely give this 5 stars!! I look forward to Flanagan's next book!

2 comments about Dream Homes Colorado (Dream Homes).

1. With a plethora of building sites offering truly spectacular settings, as well as a busy metropolitian area, relatively low building costs, and resort areas to attract the rich and famous, Colorado offers a collection of 'Dream Homes' unlikely to be found anywhere else in the world. In putting this book the authors could choose from the best of the best and they did. Both the houses and the background settings are spectacular. There's something about a huge mansion, sitting by a lake, with snow capped mountains in the background that creates a picture worth remembering.
   
   Of course the houses are outstanding in their own right. Most of the houses, especially those remote from the city of Denver, carry a western motif, there's something about being in the west that calls for big wooden beams, log cabin construction, and wrought iron inside. Still, as you would expect, there is room for other architectural style, whatever the customer wants: tudor, French, modern - anything goes. The one common characteristic is that these homes all fill every aspect of being a dream home.



2. Dream Homes of Colorado is a "Must Have" Coffee Table Book.
   It is truly one of the finest compilations of magnificent photography of the finest examples of the achitectural, design, and building talents used to produce the most outstanding homes in the State of Colorado. It showcases where almost everyone would live, if only they could.

5 comments about Sister: The Life of Legendary Interior Decorator Mrs. Henry Parish II.

1. Sister (Dorothy) Parrish was "gently" born, and she played this card like a violin all her life to great success. Expensively, but scantily educated Sister had an "eye" for proportion and taste that never failed her. Her decorating services became astronomically expensive, yet she had a Grande Dame persona that made her clients feel she was doing them a great favor by decorating their homes.

   "Sister" is authored (perhaps edited) by her daughter and granddaughter very respectfully indeed. It contains little essays and remarks by friends and colleagues, plus sections by Sister herself from her autobiography that never was completed. Her daughters were clearly terrified by her, though her granddaughter seems to be a little bit of a chip off the old block. An oddity I noticed in the pictures: movie-star-handsome men run in her family while the women are plain as peahens. Sister speaks of growing into beauty, but I would have to respectfully disagree. Imposing, and dramatic--yes; but "beautiful"--no. All mention her wonderful sense of humor, which struck me as cruel and belittling along with a razor sharp tongue. The pictures of her projects (sadly, most in black and white) show her capabilities in making a fabulous mansion into a home rather than a museum. However, in spite of Sister's declamations that the client's wishes were first and foremost, most of her actions show that you go her way or the highway. Her Pekinese dogs always were with her and each seemed to have a talent for vicious nipping.

   "Sister" is fascinating and does a good job (mostly Sister herself) describing her artistic techniques. The family history is well done. But there is a slightly patched together quality of the book that makes this reader feel the events are only half-told and some not told at all. I don't mean I expected or remotely wanted a "Sister Dearest." I admire the tact and respect displayed by Ms. Parrish's heirs. I just wish a few of the reminiscences were by folks who had less than 100% adoration for Sister!
   -sweetmolly-Amazon Reviewer




2. The book, a series of interviews, doesn't hold together as well as I might have liked, though it is chock-full of intriguing raw materials, including reminiscences of Sister by other legends (e.g. the late Mark Hampton, John Fowler, and Mario Buatta). I read it in a hotel room dashing out to shop and to go to a wedding, and I naturally began to critique the decor from what I imagined as Sister's point of view. The hotel forbade dogs, small or otherwise, which would never have done. Sister's Pekinese Yummy went everywhere. There was a certain baroque grandeur to the lobby, which was carried into the rooms, where one could not miss the giant chandelier. You just stared at it, and perhaps felt that this justified the price of the night. But this would not have been Sister's way. As she demonstrated during her days in the Kennedy White House, she could differentiate between public spaces and private ones. Private ones were subtle in tone, with the emphasis on incorporating one's own sentimental possessions into the general scheme. A client's library might have a Picasso or a Monet, but it wouldn't be the first thing that would hit you when you walked into the room. You'd probably be drawn to a cozy fire, and only gradually realize the masterpiece off somewhere to the side. Public spaces could be grand as befitted their function. None of her clients wound up living in a museum. She's worth knowing about, and a nice guide to what endures. The current rage for "homekeeping" probably would have pleased her, as the basis of it is making people comfortable rather than knocking them upside the head with your worldly success. She also had a sort of innate ability to measure things, and to compose with her eye, like a really good candid photographer. However natural things appeared, her own description of a "typical" day makes one think of show business. She was a life force, and no family can ever make up for the gap someone like this leaves, I am sure, but this book is a fine eulogy, which works the way the great ones do: it's an encouragement to more life. Sister Parish seems thoroughly to have enjoyed hers.



3. One of the legendary designers of any period - this book by the granddaughter and daughter of Sister Parish is a terrific testament to the legacy this lady left on the decorating world. It's chatty without being gossipy, plus you get a real feel of how Sister decorated. Thoroughly enjoyable and readable!



4. I couldn't put Sister down once I started reading it. It was a great tribute by the daughter and granddaughter of one of the most interesting, eccentric and outlandishly one-of-a-kind people I've ever encountered in print, or anywhere else for that matter. She was so fascinating as to be almost a figment of someone's imagination. What I really appreciated was that even though Mrs. Parish could be cruel (telling her chauffeur "turn left, stupid", etc.,) most people (including her chauffeur) seemed to have liked her immensely. Her style of decorating is as fresh and likeable today as it must have been back when she first got started. And it's lovely to read about someone whose relatives obviously adored her. No Mommie Dearest here! Such a treat.



5. This book is a fascinating account of the life of a woman from a privileged social background who defended tradition while breaking with it completely: starting her own business, forming friendships in the art and design world, painting the antique mahogany tables red and stripping the stained wood floors. An oral history told by the people who knew her best, "Sister" illustrates by their varying perspectives how Sister Parish was many things to many, very different people, and how creative, innovative talent can override even the inherited attitudes of the people who possess that talent to change taste and style. A very interesting, fun book: gossip, decorating tips, and all.

2 comments about Elements of Design: Elegant Wisdom That Works for Every Room in Your Home.

1. The book is filled with practical ideas for highend decorating using the best quality items. The illustrations are excellent and really do help point out the concepts trying to be taught. With time and effort the look can be achieved. I like that it moves us away form the HGTV look of beige and minimalism.



2. WHAT A MAJOR DISAPPOINTMENT FROM ONE WHO IS SUPPOSE TO BE A GOOD DESIGNER...IT IS OBVIOUS NINA CAMPBELL IS TRYING TO DRUM UP NEW CLIENTS AND BUSINESS WITH AN EYE TOWARDS THAT 60'S AND 70'S "stuff". SHE IS FOLLOWING THE TREND RIGHT AT THE MOMENT HOPING TO CAPITALIZE ON THE RETRO MOVEMENT.....SHE SHOULD STICK TO WHAT SHE IS KNOWN FOR...
   
   THIS BOOK IS NOT A GOOD REFLECTION OF HER TASTE OR ABILITY.........TOO BAD..
   
   I WOULD RECOMMEND TO SAVE YOUR MONEY AND NOT BUY THIS BOOK...IF YOU WANT TO SEE IT GO TO THE LIBRARY OR THE LOCAL BORDERS AND LOOK....

5 comments about Celebrating Home: Decorating for the Holidays and Seasons (Seasons of Cannon Falls).

1. This is a lovely book. If you are looking for a "how-to" decorate for different holidays book that is full of instructions, this is NOT the book for you. The photography in this book makes it pretty enough to be a coffee table book, though there is nothing new nor especially innovative in the way of decorating. Perhaps it will inspire you to look at your own things in a new light and ultimately create seasonal displays that you and your family will enjoy.



2. From the moment I opened this book I knew I would love it! It's so full of beautiful inspiration and the writing is lovely. If you're expecting a book chalk full of projects and ideas, you won't find it here. This is more about the photography and how to integrate the Cannon Falls style into your home. I just love how it features different looks for each season and tells you why each look works. I could read and go through this book over and over again. LOVE IT!!



3. I was very disappointed with this book. There are only a handful of interesting pictures - no really new ideas - just lots of wasted shots on the photographer's part. Yes, the house is nice. But, unless you have this much space, rooms this large and this type of architecture, you'll not be able to use 75% of even these tired decorating suggestions.



4. I was so totally disgusted by the photography, the layouts and the
   story line! My Williams and Sonoma catalog came the same day and
   I am sad to say it was over the top better then this book! PATHETIC!



5. I thought about buying this book for months. I expected sophisticaed and unique projects which would excite me but did not find them. The projects are basic. Yes, the house is very beautiful and shows well. If you are interested in a decorating book this may be for you.

2 comments about Naomi Leff.

1. I like the written overview of the designer Naomi Leff and the unique themes in each project. Photographically,
   it could not be more beautiful or well put together and I give this book a five star and above rating! I have recommended this publication to many colleagues and friends with an interest in design. The attention to detail
   both in Naomi's designs and the book is exquisite.



2. The book has wonderful commentary about a true design icon-Naomi Leff. The photographs of her work are fabulous and capture all her creativity in both residential and retail store design and display. An AD 25 top designer,, her work no matter what the style,is most exemplified by her beautiful are deco interiors.

5 comments about Feng Shui Principles for Building and Remodeling : Creating a Space That Meets Your Needs and Promotes Well-Being.

1. I am going to build muy custom house and I want to do it according to the Feng Shui. I was expecting to find many Feng Shui floor plans samples...well let me tell you that not, it has not many Feng Shui floor plans, such a few, and most of them do not match what the book says. I mean that most of the foor plans are not according to Feng Shui bagua grid (occidental), i.e.: bathroom is Wealth area, when it is known in all schools that bathroom can't be placed there.
   I found just 1 floor plan, so it is not worthly to get this book if you are looking for Feng Shui floor plans.



2. The School of Pyramid Feng Shui is adapted to the ocidental people. No focus on directions belonging to an element or not. Is centered in the harmony of the nature cycles where all the elements of nature (colors, sounds, shapes, etc.)and people with their houses must achieved balance. Very good reading. With lots of questions and cases, thinking in all situations (a home for a familiy, for a couple, or just one person). If you liked, probably you'll buy (like me) the other book of Nancilee Wydra "Feng Shui goes to the office".



3. This is a great book! It is not based on the traditional feng shui, but ascribes to pyramid feng shui. So if you are looking for why everyone in the house experiences the same illness that cropped up when you moved in, this may not fit the bill. But it addresses the flow of chi and the balance of yin/yang in detail. It is a great read and opens you up to the different sounds, textures, smells and visual apects of your home that makes a home interesting and appealing to everyone that experiences it. It literally brings your awareness to the fact that your home is a live energy.



4. As a registered interior designer and certified Feng Shui professional, I found this book to be an interesting read. It will help designers and architects, as well as homeowners, analyze space and make informed decisions as to build or remodel. The charts are easy to follow and right on point. This book is filled with illustrations that are wonderful in demonstrating the ideas being presented. The "forward thinking" floorplans at the end of the book show that these two authors understand the diversity of how people live today and how their homes could be better designed to meet their needs.



5. I found this book to be a "must read" if you are planning to build or remodel and it is easy to understand. My husband and I are building a home and we found this book to be a vital resource for our decision making. It helped us select the outside colors, wall colors, flooring, lighting, window coverings, as well as furniture placement. In our meeting to finalize the floor plan with the builder, his wife was so impressed with our feedback and rationale that she asked me to get her the book!

5 comments about Nancy Lancaster: English Country House Style.

1. This book not only has beautiful photography, but the text is wonderful. It takes one back to another era, aesthetically it is superb. Not only is it a treatise on The English Country House, but it is historically interesting, the kind of a book one will return to again and again. The details described in the restoration and decoration of the homes and gardens Nancy Lancaster was a part of over the years are amazing, this book is a tribute to people who loved beautiful surroundings and the history these properties and homes revealed. So much would have been lost of this era, had it not been for Nancy's reverance and deep interest in what should be preserved and enjoyed and admired.



2. I first discovered Nancy Lancaster when I was married to a oil man from Virginia & heard all about this woman. Well, I finally saw article after article on her in the decorating magazines & my file on her continued to grow. By this time she was 90 years old!!! When I toured England on my first trip I toured her homes & her stamp is still in place all these years later.
   
   This book (there are several more) is now in lavish photos shares this lifestyle. I adore it and her. I hope one day I am remembered so kindly. Thanks to the publisher.



3. Subject matter and book cover engaging... historically very interesting however pictorially, thoroughly disappointing...in fact a serious let down.....



4. I truly enjoyed this book. The pictures were excellent quality and representative of the text. For the professional decorator or a person interested in house decoration it is funny and informative. I highly recommend this book.



5. Book was not what I expected. Book was recommended by a decorator who said Nancy Lancaster was her inspiration so I was expecting more decorating and less biography-like book. It does make an excellent coffee table presentation!!