Product Description: From the classic elegance of Haussmann's Parisian boulevards and the glorious excesses of Versailles to the bohemian charms of Montmartre and the artist's garret, French style has acquired a legendary status. This beautifully illustrated book explores the elements that combine to create spaces with an identifiably French feel: the archituectural details that enhance the framework of a room; the textures and colours that flatter various styles of furniture; options for lighting, mirrors, and paintings. Looking at real homes, antiques dealer and stylist Josephine Ryan demonstrates a keen eye for objects both ordinary and extraordinary, and examines the alchemy of a style that can be either lush and complex or pared-down and rigorous. With words by Hilary Robertson, "French Home" will help you reinvent your surroundings and gain a touch of French style. *Lavish photographs by Claire Richardson *Celebrates a style that mixes antique and modern with easy flair.
Peeling Paint, Patina, & Perfectly French Full of beautifully photographed vignettes that capture the essence of French style. The photographed interiors featured are not lavish or ostentations, but instead, pleasingly simple showcasing a style that is easily accessible. The book offers ideas for every living space--indoors and out. Interesting historical bits provide background information with a sensibility that is relevant to today's modern living. The French have a consummate knack for blending the old with the new. If you have a love for all things worn, this book is delightful and inspiring.
Don't be misled by the title What is a French Home anyway? Is there such a thing as an American Home?
I was smitten by this book -- it was love at first sight. I'm not necessarily a big fan of French decorating per se. I do like the European country look, however. I also happen to like Japanese home-decorating style, which has a lot more in common with the look presented in this book than you might think, and I actually mix the two in my own home.
The reviewers who were disappointed in this book probably associated "French" with rich, opulent, fluffy, and even ornate. This book isn't about ornate. It's about rustic. It's about valuing history and character in the homes you live in and things you live with.
It of course is not the way ALL French people live.
And as a response to the reviewer who were disappointed because the book showed photos of objects, not of rooms, I'd like to say: In decorating you need to see the big picture as well as the small pictures. Often, it's the small things that really tell the story. If you are looking for ways to add that special touch to your rooms, this is a great book because the photos give you lots of ideas and inspiration. If not, you may not get much out of the book.
All in all, I am very satisfied with the book, and I've been looking at it every day.
Understated Chic! Happy to report that I found this book had lots of useful and chic ideas that can be easily translated to "Kiwi" New Zealand interiors. I happily recommend this book. Sumptuous images and an easy style. There is even a painting in one of the rooms by a New Zealand artist whose work I also have...what a small world!
LES NOUVEAUX RICHES need not apply... Happily, for those of us who truly love French style, viewpoint and decor, there are some very fine books available. This is one of them.
I was dismayed at some earlier reviews because this book truly captures the french respect for time and process, connection with Nature and the eye for placement based on function,soulfulness and items well loved. It is entirely appropriate that one reviewer who missed the point praised the Betty Lou Phillips books which are always only a sterile surface amalgamation of what rich Texans GUESS french style is about.
Like all the important things in life, you either get it or you don't. HOCKEY FAN needs to stick to hockey.
French Home - review Absolutely fantastic book! Great ideas, great style! Highly recommended to any with a keen interest in interior decor - french style!
Anything Goes Trivia
Trevor
Megaton Man
