3 comments about Island Living: Inland Retreats and Shoreside Havens.

1. these are not luxurious oceanfront homes. they are ALL ugly
   plain homes that give no decorating ideas (maybe to my grandma)
   if you are looking for spectacular,check out Florida Design magazine.



2. Very nice layout and graphics and selection of relatively modest but well thought out homes.



3. When I thought of living on an island, my first thought was the tropics. Somewhere down in the Caribbean or perhaps the South Pacific. Here houses would be open to the wind, here it would be necessary to produce your own electricity, your own water supply and so on.
   
   Instead in this book, most of the houses are on islands just off the coast of the US. And as part of the sub-title, there are some that he considers to be Shoreside Havens rather than actually on an island. Further many of these houses are quite far north, off the coast of Maine perhaps or in the area around foggy, rainy Seattle. Here you don't want a wide open house, but one that can be warm and cozy while presenting a view of the storm tossed water.
   
   Here are some twenty-five spectacular homes. These are not the huge mansions often seen in such books, but homes that are only slightly above the mainstream. Here are homes that are made to fit into a site and to reflect the love that the owners have for that site.

5 comments about Lofts: New Designs for Urban Living.

1. I found this at the bookstore and some lofts shown in there really fit my visions for my business. People know about lofts but don't always get to see what's inside them. This book presents really well the different kinds of designs and architectures that are available. Even though it's 2008 now and the book is from 2001, it's a great display of techniques and a good starting point for further research.



2. I have only really studied 3 loft books and this would be my second favorite.

   The author looks at Manhattan lofts exclusively for one half of the book and uses the other half for projects all over the world. All in all, her selection is good in that the reader gets a fair sense of what is currently happening in the design of these spaces (lofts). You usually get about 3-4 color photos per loft, a short description and floor plan.

   Overall, a great book and source of inspiration if you find yourself with an abandoned, urban space and about a million dollars.




3. The good thing about this book is that it does show pictures of lofts....that's about it. It showcased some lofts that have been pictured in other books before, and the picture quality is not always the best(at times the photographs look as though they were taken twenty years ago or with bad film). I usually read my design books but after about halfway through, I just looked at the pictures. Save your money for something else.



4. I bought this book on the strong recommendation of the other reviewers and was disappointed. I have bought 8 books on the subject of lofts and this is my least favorate. The photos are generic architect shots, the layout bland and the printing is flat and sometimes fuzzy, and just unappealing.

   Check out Living in Space and the International Book of Lofts.

   I have to wonder if the other reviewers are friends of the author...

   (Just my opinion, your milage may vary...)




5. I bought this book on the strong recommendation of the other reviewers and was disappointed. I have bought 8 books on the subject of lofts and this is my least favorate. The photos are generic architect shots, the layout bland and the printing is flat and sometimes fuzzy, and just unappealing.

   Check out Living in Space and the International Book of Lofts.

   I have to wonder if the other reviewers are friends of the author...

   (Just my opinion, your milage may vary...)

1 comments about Architecture & Design Library: Townhouses.

1. Ann Heuer's Townhouses is an extraordinary photographic survey of the development of the townhouse and an inspiring volume for interior design ideas and concepts for remaking any home in emulation of this vintage style. Heuer presents a diversity of facade styles, architectural details, and distinctive outdoor spaces ranging from courtyard gardens to rooftop decks. Also covered are elegant light fixtures, door knockers and nobs, oversized furniture, paint treatments, decorative iron railings and more, all adding a period theme to a redesigned interior. Profusely illustrated throughout with spectacular color photography, Townhouses is a welcome and highly recommended complement to any personal or professional interior design reference collection.

5 comments about Creole Thrift: Premium Southern Living Without Spending a Mint.

1. How fantastic that the super talented Angele Parlange has written this delightful book on the Deep South. Martha Stewart in one of her early magazine issues highlighted this family and their old plantation & several other national magazines has also over the years. So glad that Angele shared this with all of us. The connection to Paris is interesting as I am traveling there in May-want to look up the address of the ancestors.



2. I found this book to be delightful-my husband likes to fish and about 10 years ago we found our way to False River about 100 miles from our home above New Orleans-well, Miss Lucy, Angele's Mother decided to invite us to fish on their private area......a private tour of the plantation....introduction to the locals.....an incredible day. What they didn't know is in a previous marriage my husband had discovered an oil well on their plantation and it saved their world!!!!! Isn't life fantastic how it all plays out.
   
   I forgot all about this fun day until I saw this book at the local book store & bought several copies for my friends, family etc. Angele is very talented, has a HUGE following of customers and I am delighted she wrote this book. The romance of the Deep South is captured successfully.



3. This book is a really fun read: I buy design books constantly, and confess that I usually completely disregard the text. This book was the exception: I found it extremely entertaining, and actually read the entire thing, cover to cover. One of the main criticisms I've seen leveled at it is that most people don't consider the ideas thrifty. As an interior designer with a busy Chicago firm, I can understand both perspectives. By "thrifty", Ms. Parlange does not mean cheap. What she writes about is achieving a luxury result with far less expense than the usual routes. What this book does is essentially walk you through the steps of contracting a custom job yourself, rather than paying a designer $150 an hour to do it for you. In that sense, it's far less expensive than a custom job could run. I would also like to note, for those of you intimidated or overwhelmed by the custom world, it's truly not as daunting, and also often not as expensive, as you might think. If you can find somebody local, particularly somebody who works on the side or out of their home, rather than a large company, custom can actually be very reasonable and accessible. For example, there are many extremely talented seamstresses who work informally while their children are at school, or once they've officially retired. Custom will almost always be more expensive than walking into Target and buying pre-made draperies, or a generic mirror. However, it can be extremely gratifying, not to mention, often much more beautiful and appropriate to the space, to design something yourself and see it brought to fruition. Although most of these projects are a little on the "crafty" side, they could easily be dressed up or down. In short, this is a great, creative book about obtaining a luxurious result in a way that brings it into the realm of possibility for people who might not otherwise have the opportunity.



4. I sat down and finished this book in 2 short days, I was so curious and interested. When I finished, I just sat
   there, wondering how I felt about it!! That's where the confusion comes in . The cover photo and design (I"m an artist) were inticing. The content was a little weak. I am so in love with anything southern!! The southern ladies know all the finer things in life: how to dress, look, cook, decorate, speak, collect antiques, fine art, and more. Author's personal background interesting fairy tale like story .,.. The meat of the book was weak ... the decorating and receipes not at all at the level I was looking for ... it's more in the crafty funky catagory. It was like talking to a creative friend and a little walk thru the south, stopping and talking with her friends. Not sure if I would recommend ... altho have to say it was a different approach ... and I had a fun time reading!



5. A darling book about the old old south!! Angele Parlange truly brings back her fond memories that seemed to define her life today! It is very hard to put down because you want to keep reading/laughing out loud while the photos and tips are the icing on the cake!!! Great cute gift to give to a special friend who loves the south and what we stand for...Many Thanks to Angele for this adorable book!! My dear friend Amie gave it to me which I will always cherish her thoughtfulness!! Share and Enjoy!!

No comments about Space Planning for Commercial and Residential Interiors.

5 comments about Designers on Designers : The Inspiration Behind Great Interiors.

1. DESIGNERS ON DESIGNERS is a great idea for a book. Practicing interior designers write an essay on a legendary, here meaning dead, interior designer showing examples of the legend's work as well as their own and tell how the legend influened the development of their own sense of design. With a Forward by Albert Hadley, a living decorating legend in his own right, 24 well-known interior designers discuss the sources of their inspiration.
   
   One of the best examples is the chapter on David Hicks by his son Ashley that shows a good overview of the master's background and his work, and how it influenced the work of the son and daughter-in-law; just as interesting, if not more so, was how the younger Hickses chose to depart from the senior's taste. Bunny Williams tells of the influence of Sister Parish for whom she worked for 22 years. Thomas Jayne writes about Edith Wharton and collaborator Odgen Codman and gives an explanation of the room at Wharton's house, The Mount, that he furnished. Ellie Cullman cites Henry Francis du Pont and his house, Winterthur, as important influences in guiding her sense of style. Most of the essays are interesting, but a few are cringe-inducing.
   
   Pamela Banker's examples of her work supposedly inspired by Sir John Soane may cause some rolling-in-the-grave action. Thomas Britt's essay could be compared to a train wreck as he jumped the track so many times; someone should tell him that Elsie de Wolfe and Lady Mendl were the same person. Ron Wilson reveals he found inspiration in the work of Michael Taylor, but only after Cher threatened not to use Wilson for her new Malibu home unless he could come up with an approach different from what he had done for her before. John Stefanidis writes about the still-living Phillipe Starck whom he has never met and fails to show any significant influence. Jamie Drake missed the point of the talent of Stephane Boudin. Marjorie Shushan cannot be accused of being overly influenced by her former employer Kalef Alaton.
   
   This book would have greatly benefited from better editing by Susan Gray, if there was any editing at all. With bargain pricing, those interested in the history of interior design might enjoy this book. But it is not dependable as a scholarly reference. The concept of the book is a good one, however, and worthy of another volume in the future.



2. "Designers on Designers" is such a fascinating and informative book, especially for anyone who is interested in learning more about how to decorate one's home from masters "who know!"



3. What a wonderful idea -- an intimate look in words and photos at some of the world's most influential designers and their candid thoughts on the designers and interiors that have inspired them. An elegant, eloquent, and informative book.



4. If you are passionate about interior design and its history, you will adore "Designers on Designers." It features a select group of today's top designers and reveals in detail the people and historic places that have had the greatest impact on their work. The notable designers include Ellie Cullman, Robert Couturier, Bunny Williams and Jamie Drake. Gray allows the designers to tell their stories in their own words, lending the text a desirable intimacy not found in many design books. Each chapter includes telling photography. I'm looking forward to volume II.



5. Susan Gray's "Designers on Designers" presents a multi-dimensional panorama on the world of interior design. The book's essays, each accompanied by illustrations of the particular author's own work, effectively complement the work of the designers who are discussed.

5 comments about Bringing it Home - France : Creating the Feeling of France in Your Home Room by Room.

1. I was afraid that this book would be too over the top for an average decorator like me---but it wasn't!
   
   The author has done a wonderful job at showing the reader all the various FRENCH styles:.... not only the more classic French styles, but also the more natural (Cottage) French style of decorating.
   
   I thoroughly enjoyed this book, and I will certainly refer to this book over and over again.



2. Twelve years after its first publication, Cheryl MacLachlan's Bringing It Home: France is still engaging and reassuringly practical. Not only does she provide detailed instructions on how to achieve authentic French interiors for all budgets--not just chateaux or upscale "French country"--her book also contains a wealth of information about related topics, such as four common fabrics (toile, jacquard, petit point, and provencal prints) and how to set a French table.
   
   In researching the design and decoration of French houses, I've found this book to be far and away the most useful reference.



3. I've had this book for a few years now and it has regularly provided me with inspiration. I bought it when I moved into my first apartment and was obsessed with french country style. I referred to it a year or two later for recipes when I learned the importance and the pleasure of foods made with seasonal, organic, whole ingredients. And this evening I am referring to it for tips on my upcoming country wedding and am reading about how to serve dinner and the art of receiving. And perhaps in a few more years (or several more!) I will re-read the section on children and family with yet another new outlook. This book has been a wonderful resource!



4. I have a lot of decorating books, and I am not a huge fan of french interior, but this book is great! It is full of photos of classy decorated rooms, the colors are so tastefull and it makes you wanna go and redecorate your place until it looks like the rooms in this book. It is worth having it and I still go back and look at it, beacause it is sooo cool.



5. The author of this book has a lovely way with words and weaves a spell in her book about French Style living. The experience that this American lady acquires during her lengthy stay in France is beautifully executed in her descriptions of French Decor, dining, traditions, and the lifestyle of the French in general. This book is one of the favorites in my collection.

No comments about New Stone Architecture.

2 comments about The Interior Design Business Handbook: A Complete Guide to Profitability.

1. This may be useful to students or someone who is a freelancer. The book really lacks detail. It provides information but right when you need more info, it stops. So I would suggest the book to be renamed "Introduction to Interior Design Business". That's more accurate.



2. Found this new Knackstedt book to be just as informative as all of her others. Would recomend this book to any one in the design industry. Happy Learning! J.

5 comments about The Majesty of the French Quarter (Majesty Architecture).

1. Very misleading...Interior is depicted on the box cover, yet there is not one interior photo in the set of cards. Would not have ordered these if I had known this.



2. I really love New Orleans and really love this book! The pictures in it are beautiful and really capture the French Quarter well. I love having this book so that when I miss NOLA, I can just open it up and feel like I'm there! I also like using this book for decorating ideas. I would suggest this book to anyone who loves New Orleans, or someone looking for decorating ideas. It is a great addition to my New Orleans books collection!



3. Oui, let the good times roll. Top ten reviewer's, Mr. Mitchell's, suberb glimpse through his words sold me on this fascinating book. Anticipating arrival from Amazon was like licking my lips for a taste of cafe au lait and sugary beignets from Cafe De Monde.

   New Orleans or N'Awlnsss as some say, is one grande damme of a city, one of my favorites. History, vibrant colors, music, food, the naughty and the mannerly--I can never get enough. We spent New Years Eve there cruising our favorite haunts and finding new ones. This book by Kerri McCaffety shows mostly the hidden New Orleans. Unique furnishings, paintings, gardens and secretive views from galleries or balconies. One can almost feel Jean Lafitte, the pirate, stare through you as you dare to cross Pirates Row behind the most photograhed church in the country, St. Louis Cathederal in Jackson Square.

   One of my very favorite photos is one of the first, a frosty icicle adorned tropical courtyard--a true testament to contrasting Crescent City. Another is the dreamscaped dome in a three story townhouse. Harrah's in NO, has almost captured that feeling in their Jazz Bar.

   The only thing I wish, is that there were more photos of , well, the rollicking side to this humming city on the Mississippi. There are a few great shots of Mardi Gras, Bourbon street, Cafe De Monde and the French Market. But I want more!

   Again, thank you to Don Mitchell for reviewing so well. I found a true treasure in "The Majesty of the French Quarter".

   Merci for your interest & comment votes--CDS




4. Kerri McCaffety's lovely book provides locals and visitors alike the opportunity to glimpse the mystery and beauty behind the walls of the French Quarter. These beautiful homes reflect not only the talent of a wonderful photographer, but also the artistry, imagination and love of the homes' inhabitants. "The Majesty of the French Quarter" thoroughly captures the diverse styles and influences that make the homes in the French Quarter so exciting and unique. In fact, this diversity mirrors the many cultural influences that make the city of New Orleans a place like no other.

   Ms. McCaffety's photographs display a very keen eye for detail; however, the same cannot be said of the accompanying text. In future editions, it would be wonderful if all owners' names were spelled correctly. Additionally, these beautiful homes deserve to be identified by their correct names. Although the numerous errors do not detract from the visual beauty of the book, "The Majesty of the French Quarter" would certainly be enhanced by the correction of these inaccuracies. The wonderful people who opened their homes to Kerri and to all readers deserve nothing less.




5. Although I have been to the French Quarter in New Orleans many times, I have never seen her look lovelier than in this gorgeous book by photographer Kerri McCaffety. Usually photographs don't quite capture the magic of the moment, but these still images seem to transcend their subjects.

   The French Quarter is a study in contrasts: different architectural styles, various decorating techniques inside, exquisite gardens and fountains behind, and very little space anywhere. In many cases, the front of the building is by far the least interesting part . . . even though that's all that the tourists ever see. McCaffety takes you past the front door into the foyers, dining rooms, bedrooms, and gardens where the spirit of the French Quarter really reigns. No garden of orchids could ever match the color and variety of these many hidden sites. Never has so much happened in such a small area.

   The photographs capture all of this in loving detail. The peeling paint and partially restored interiors often look better for Ms. McCaffety's treatment. Versailles could use her talents.

   Not content with being a photographic genius, she also wrote essays for this magnificant volume that provide a sense of the place, people, and history. Although the facts were mostly all known to me, her enigma-explaining writing style and love of this place provided a poetry to the experience that mirrored the beauty of the photographs.

   If you have to choose between a trip to New Orleans and reading this book, take the book! Wow!

   You can also use this book to learn not to judge a place or a person by your initial impression. As this book shows, you cannot see the natural pearl until you open the oyster. Discard your incorrect views of New Orleans and replace them with these beauties.

   Donald Mitchell

   Coauthor of The Irresistible Growth Enterprise (available in September 2000) and The 2,000 Percent Solution

   (donmitch@fastforward400.com)