Reviews (1)

Restoring the Temple of Vision
This book uncovers the early Jewish, Scottish, and Stuart sources of "ancient" Cabalistic Freemasonry that flourished in Écossais lodges in the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries.
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Subjects:  1. Architecture    2. Europe - Great Britain - General    3. General    4. Great Britain - History - Tudor And Stuart (1485-1714)    5. History    6. History: World    7. Interior Design - General    8. Rosicrucianism    9. Sociology    10. Sociology Of Organizations    11. Europe    12. European history: c 1500 to c 1750    13. Freemasonry & secret societies    14. History of ideas, intellectual history    15. Religious buildings    16. c 1700 to c 1800    17. c 1800 to c 1900   

Reviews (3)

With fascinating and descriptive information and insights
The collaborative effort of writer and British country estates expert Hugh Montgomery-Massingberd and architectural photographer Christopher Simon Sykes, Manor Houses Of England is a stunningly visual and informatively descriptive showcase of great and historic works of British country manor house architecture. Manor Houses Of England is illustrated throughout with full-color photographs on almost every two-page spread and filled from cover to cover with fascinating and descriptive information and insights about the history, construction, use, and present-day status of each these majestic buildings depicted. Very highly recommended for armchair travelers and architecture buffs, Manor Houses Of England is the next best thing to taking a personally guided, on-site tour of these awe-inspiring buildings.

ANGLOPHILES REJOICE!
Anglophiles have cause to rejoice with the publication of this rich tribute to England's stately homes.Over 300 color illustrations present both exteriors and interiors in their somewhat faded but nonetheless unparalleled glory. Beautiful coffee-table book.
Wonderfull photos showcasing proud & stately English homes.You will enjoy trying to pick out which house you'd choose to live in.Sometimes I liked the interiors better than the exteriors & vice-versa.I would have prefered the authors chose only 20 houses (instead of 40) but gave twice the amount of coverage to each one.Although it is a charming book, I rate it only 4 stars because of the following: The need for more in-depth history & info for each house; a map of Britain with locations of the homes would help; I would have liked to see even basic floorplans (there are none); some homes profiled have only a couple of interior photos & one or two external shots.Read more

Subjects:  1. Architecture    2. Domestic    3. England    4. General    5. International Architecture - British    6. Manors    7. Residential Interior Design    8. Vernacular Architecture    9. Art / General   

Reviews (10)

Okfor reference
When I first started looking at the explanation for perspective I thought it was pretty good.But as it went on, I thought no one is going to pay me to take this much time to do a rendered drawing!This book could be good for developing your eye and understanding of perspective but there are short cuts that will give you better than acceptable results.There are also books that have more to offer in terms of rendering the presentation.I have found that no one singular book completely communicates everything you need.This one, I could have done without.

perspecitve for interior designers
This book is a helpful tool for those of us struggling with perspectives.Page by page written and visual instructions assist in not just drawing perspectives, but really understanding how they are put together!Even for those who are new to the world of drawing and explaining concepts via drawing! THANKS!

Friendly
I really like the book!...
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Subjects:  1. Architecture    2. Interior Design    3. Interior Design - General    4. Interior decoration    5. Perspective    6. Techniques - Drawing   

Subjects:  1. Attitudes    2. Design & Construction    3. Do-It-Yourself    4. Do-It-Yourself - General    5. General    6. Home Improvement / Construction    7. Home Maintenance And Repair    8. House & Home    9. Interior Design    10. Interior Design - General    11. Interior architecture    12. Men    13. Personal space    14. Remodeling & Renovation - General    15. House & Home / General   

Subjects:  1. Architectural design    2. Decorating    3. Decorating - General    4. Handbooks, manuals, etc    5. Home Improvement / Construction    6. House & Home    7. Interior Design - General    8. Interior decoration    9. Architecture / Design & Drafting    10. Interior design   

Reviews (3)

Helpfullness
Piotrowski writes about the steps on how to become an interior designer. There are several chapters describing the design process and the different types of design. There are detailed accounts of what is put into residential and commercial spaces. She takes a look at the future of the profession. There are several testimonials and showcases for active designers giving their opinions and advice on the profession. This book offers an in depth account on the profession and what is to come in the interior design field. As an aspiring interior designer, this book talked too much about current designer's experiences and not strictly about the profession. The book overall was helpful and knowledgable and I suggest those interested in the field get this book and take it to heart.This book is a fairly easy to read book; it rates only at the twelfth grade level on average. It is appropriate for those in high school and older. It helps inspire those that are looking at the profession and those already in it.

An Interest In Interior Design
I recently read Becoming an Interior Designer by Christine Piotrowski, ASID, IIDA, for a critical analysis paper in my english class at OSU. After reading it, I would agree that interior design is more complex than the average person might assume. Throughout this selection, Piotrowski discusses the types of design, the changes in the profession over time, and the educational preparation to gain a better understanding of the career overall. This informative "how-to" book discusses commercial and residential areas of interior design and what is important to know in order to become successful in the rapidly growing field. In her attempt at writing an educational book, Piotrowski uses techniques, variety, and tips that ultimately reveal to readers whether this career is suitable for them. This book is best for anyone who is interested in the field and is looking for a quick light read. I found the book to be repetitive, not necessarily intellectually challenging, but a fun read that can either discourage or encourage one to follow their dream to become an interior designer. So if one has the desire to learn more about this book check out this guide to careers in design.

Excellent for Students of Design
This book is an excellent source of information for those interested in becoming designers and those already studying interior design. This book explains commerical design well and gives truthful information on what potential employers will expect from a design education. If you are serious about becoming an interior designer, read this book - so you will be completely informed on this fun and dynamic profession. It is not decorating! ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Architecture    2. Career Planning (General)    3. Careers - General    4. Decorating    5. Decoration & Ornament    6. Interior Design    7. Interior Design - General    8. Interior decoration    9. Vocational guidance    10. Advice on careers & achieving success    11. Architecture / Interior Design   

Reviews (1)

Just another potpourri book...
I love interior decorating books, especially Colonial, Regency and Victorian or English Country Style.But this book covers too much territory.A few pictures of each, as well as others styles like Ranch, or French.If you are having trouble deciding on a style, this book might help you. It has lovely illustrations, but again, as it is trying to cover many different styles falling under the broad title of "Country" your information is limited.There are too many books coming out like this. Specialty books are much better.Look to Rizzoli for the best in interior decorating books, or if you want some kind of country, best buy a book that covers that one particular style.I browsed through this at the store, hoping it might make a good Christmas present for me, but it ended up back on the shelf. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Decorating    2. Decorating - General    3. Decoration & Ornament    4. Decoration and ornament, Rustic    5. General    6. Home Improvement / Construction    7. House & Home    8. Interior Design    9. Interior Design - Style Books    10. Interior decoration    11. United States    12. House & Home / General   

Subjects:  1. Architecture    2. Art & Art Instruction    3. General    4. Interior Design - General    5. Interior design   

Reviews (4)

McMansion Style
If you like the newly built McMansion-styled homes, then this is the book for you.If you are looking for authentic French decor and tips, don't buy this book.This is no more "unmistakably French" than la Madeline food is to French cuisine.

Beautiful Book
I love all of Betty Lou Phillip's books.I really like her style - scrolled iron work, marbled tile and other beautiful touches.Some of the photos are of very extravagant homes, but they contain ideas that those of us with less imposing homes could include in our decorating.I could just sit and look through her books for hours.(Actually, I think I have!)

Much more of the same.
This book shows us several mansions, just as her other books do.They are very polished and show-roomy-think of the TV show Dynasty from the 1980's updated!The text is snobby, and it appears she doesn't intend to relate her ideas to her readers, but glorify herself. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. 20th century    2. Architecture    3. Decoration and ornament    4. France    5. History    6. Influence    7. Interior Design - General    8. Interior Design - Style Books    9. Interior decoration    10. United States    11. European studies    12. Home furnishing & decoration    13. House & Home / Decorating    14. Interior design   

Reviews (1)

Lyrical Beauty
"Lacquer is a natural sap from a sumac tree...growing in southern and central China between elevations of 1200-1500 feet. Applied in layers over logs, beams and furniture, its protective qualities preserve the wood over time. And, its transparent sheen enhances surfaces, while reflecting light." ~pg. 33
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Subjects:  1. Art & Art Instruction    2. Asian    3. Chinese influences    4. Decorating    5. Decorating - General    6. Design - General    7. House & Home    8. Interior Design - General    9. Interior decoration    10. Residential Interior Design    11. House & Home / Decorating    12. Interior design   

Reviews (1)

Exactly What I Was Hoping For
I purchased this book to give me ideas on which type of pattern/material I should use to reupholster a Victorian settee frame I recently bought.After looking through the breathtaking photos on these glossy pages, I know exactly which material to go with.And of course, from viewing this book I have a desire to purchase other victorian pieces to accompany the settee.It's a step back in time that must be seen.
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Subjects:  1. 19th century    2. Architecture    3. Architecture, Domestic    4. Decorating    5. Decoration & Ornament    6. Furniture    7. History    8. History - Specific Styles    9. Interior Design - General    10. Interior decoration    11. United States    12. Victoriana in interior decorat    13. Victoriana in interior decoration    14. Sale Books   

Reviews (4)

A marvelous look at western luxury homes
There's nothing "rustic" about these luxury ranch homes, and the word "cabin" is definitely a euphemism.The houses are as big and gorgeous as the settings they reside in, and the author's photographs capture both.If you want the vicarious thrill of seeing how the rich spend their summers in Montana, then book is for you.

Misleading
Look inside this book at a bookstore before you buy it. It is NOT about cabins but about huge lodges-log mansions, if you will.

Architect designed "cabins"
This is a beautiful, expensive book with many photographs.It's title is very misleading as it implies a study of rustic cabins; it is actually of "great halls of lodges." Mr. Kylloe feels their basis is the Arts and Crafts movement's influence on their architects; however, the true rustic cabin began with early settlers' struggles to survive and build rude shelters from the ubiquitous forest crowding around them.The photographs are especially of items like "luxury top-of-the-line kitchen appliances" or "a highly ornate, 17th Century gold-gilded corner cupboard (which) rests in the dining room."I feel cheated by the title and description of "mountain men whose small log cabins -etc." ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Architecture    2. Decoration    3. Domestic    4. General    5. Home Improvement / Construction    6. Interior Design - General    7. Log cabins    8. Ranches    9. United States    10. Architecture / Methods & Materials    11. Houses, apartments, flats, etc    12. Industrial / Commercial Art & Design   

Reviews (8)

An Absolute Beauty!A must read.
Such a beautiful book, recommended by our architect and builder for obtaining ideas on building a real Spanish Colonial or Revival house.The landscape designs were fantastic as well.Another reader wanted to see "beach shacks" and was disappointed by this book.I lived in Santa Barbara for 6 years and I can tell you have never traveled there.No beach shacks in Santa Barbara.Try along the eastern seaboard coastline.

Santa Barbara Style is a must have...
Santa Barbara Style is a must have for anyone who has ever had the opportunity to visit this gorgeous city. It is a wonderful reminder of the beauty and serenity that Santa Barbara has become famous for.
A lovely book on Santa Barbara architecture
As person who was born and raised in Santa Barbara, this book truly captures the beautiful architectural style and gardens of the city. Santa Barbara Style has a permanent spot on my coffee table and makes me homesick for the incredible homes and lush gardens found in Santa Barbara.This book is a must for anyone who is interested in Spanish and Mediterranean architecture.This is the true style of Santa Barbara! ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Architecture    2. California    3. Decorating    4. Decorating - General    5. Dwellings    6. Gardens    7. General    8. Historic buildings    9. House & Home    10. Pictorial works    11. Residential Interior Design    12. Santa Barbara    13. U.S. Architecture - General    14. Vernacular Architecture    15. Architecture / Interior Design    16. Photographs: collections    17. USA   

Subjects:  1. Architecture    2. Commercial buildings    3. Domestic    4. Interior Design - Professional Reference    5. Interior decoration    6. Interior walls    7. Public, Commercial, or Industrial Buildings    8. Specifications    9. Architecture / Public, Commercial, or Industrial Buildings    10. Public buildings: civic, commercial, industrial, etc   

Reviews (5)

Great Tracing Book!
I am an interior design student who LOVES this book. I had been struggling with drawing people in my renderings and this book really saved my drawings. You can be the best interior artist and have perfected drawing rooms, but if you stick an akward looking person in the center of your room....you have just completely ruined it. This book helps artists, interior designers, architects, students, teachers....everyone.
Excellent Resource
As a landscape architecture student this is a great resource for finding all types of people and trees and cars in all kinds of positions, plan view or perspective. Its an essential reference when you are looking for variation.

Not for interior design
I was expecting to see specific types of furniture in addition to trees, cars, and people. I don't see why there needs to be so many people pages. These are not very useful. As an interior design student, the book is not very useful but ok for architecture students. Also, I don't think the objects are in scale. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Architecture    2. Design & Drafting    3. Drafting & Mechanical Drawing    4. Entourage (Architectural rende    5. Entourage (Architectural rendering)    6. Interior Design - General    7. Themes, motives    8. Architecture / Design & Drafting    9. Photoshop   

Reviews (3)

Charming!
This book is wonderful. I just love Draper's tone and conversational way of writing. She offers ideas for all budgets and lifestyles. Charmingly retro, with plenty of good advice for today's hostesses. I could not put it down.

THE housewarming gift for gay men
Not as important or famous as Draper's "Decorating is Fun," but her 1941 "Entertaining" book is still amusing, deserving a spot on your coffee table next to an old 1940s Emily Post Etiquette book (when is somone gonna get wise and issue reprints of THOSE?).
A fun & inspirational read
If you're looking for some new ideas, as well as a peek into entertaining during the 1940's, you'll find a lot to enjoy in this reprint of Dorothy Draper's charming guide to entertaining. With an emphasis on simple, unpretentious planning, I think it was quite ahead of its time. This might make a good hostess gift! ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Cooking / Wine    2. Decorating    3. Decorating - General    4. Entertaining    5. Entertaining - General    6. Home Improvement / Construction    7. House & Home    8. Interior decoration    9. Menus    10. Architecture / Interior Design    11. Etiquette & entertaining   

Reviews (1)

A strong in-depth history of Chinese home architecture
China has seen many social, political and economic changes over the centuries, yet surprisingly, has managed to preserve excellent examples of changing architectural home styles throughout these years, as Chinese Houses: The Architectural Heritage Of A Nation presents. Packed with color photos of both interior and exterior d�cor, Chinese Houses also presents an in-depth survey of the rituals, culture, ornamentation influences, and floor plans of homes across China, from urban to rural dwellings. If it's a strong in-depth history of Chinese home architecture which is desired, look no further than the gorgeous Chinese Houses: it's much more than the coffee table picturebook it appears a first glance.
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Subjects:  1. Architectural Detail    2. Architecture    3. Architecture, Domestic    4. China    5. Customs & Traditions    6. Decoration & Ornament    7. Domestic    8. Dwellings    9. History - General    10. Interior Design - General    11. Residential Buildings Architecture    12. Residential buildings, domestic buildings    13. Theory of architecture   

Editorial Review

Tuscany's hill towns and countryside have enthralled inhabitants and visitors for centuries--the golden light in the afternoons, the grape arbors, and the rolling hillsides dotted with rustic farmhouses and villas.

Reviews (3)

Gorgeous book!
This book is so enjoyable!The pictures are beautiful...just looking through it takes me back to my favorite place in the world!
Beautiful, inspiring,full of memories of Italy
This book was so lovely. It contains exquisitephotos and many, many ideas applicable for my own home. Great decorating ideas. I've shared this book with other people who have been equally inspired by the warm,gracious, elegant living portrayed throughout. Highly recommend this bookfor yourself or gift. A lovelyway to remember past visits to Italy orinspire apersonal visit in the not too distant future.

A visual feast!
A beautiful book -- I enjoyed it much more than Tuscany Interiors which I also own.The houses range from simple to elaborate and -- of course! -- the landscapes and gardens are gorgeous. This is a great book from which to"lift" Italian decorating ideas. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Architectural & Industrial    2. Architecture    3. Architecture, Domestic    4. Celebrities    5. Domestic    6. Dwellings    7. Interior Design - General    8. Interior decoration    9. Italy    10. Landscape    11. Landscape Architecture And Design    12. Photography    13. Residential Interior Design    14. Subjects & Themes - Travel - World/Europe    15. Tuscany    16. Architecture / Interior Design   

Features

• Illustrated

Reviews (2)

Beautiful, beautiful, beautiful!!
Ashley Hicks has created a lasting memorial to his talented father, David Hicks. The book is stunning. The writing is fresh and enjoyable. Much, much more than a "David Hicks on..." title--more like a family scrapbook done to the highest level!

This isn't a review of the book, but amazon's POOR shipping
I have eagerly anticipated receiving my copy of David Hicks: Designer. I ordered it back in May of this year (2005) and I was told that it "usually ships in 2 to 3 weeks". Well, here it is September 2005 and STILL haven't received my copy and I doubt I ever will.
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Subjects:  1. Architecture    2. Art    3. General    4. Interior Design - General    5. Art / Design / General    6. DESIGNERS    7. DESIGN_GREAT BRITAIN    8. Individual designers    9. Interior design    10. United Kingdom, Great Britain   

Reviews (13)

This book was better than dessert.....
Love, love, love this book!I finally feel I have the green light to decorate in the style I've always wanted.I was slightly afraid to put certain pieces out for show, but at the same time I didn't want to stash them in the closet.Everything has been set free and now I can breathe.Thank you Jonathan for your amazing talent, your fearless decorating style, and your oh, so hilarious advice on life.

very clever and entertaining!
This is a fun, entertaining read. Great pictures and stories and awesome ideas!!!

Channeling Mrs. Goldstein
So while I was sitting on the couch yesterday, sick as a dog, I noticed my partner's new Jonathan Adler design book. The cover features Jonathan perched awkwardly on a couch, surrounded by his whimsical pottery and the typical Hollywood Regency-inspired design motifs one sees repeated in design magazines these days. Juxtaposed with his his super-cool pottery designs, the cover comes across as forced, tacky, and aimed at selling the maximum number of copies to the maximum number of people. Had I not been sick and had the book not been within arm's length, I never would have cracked it open.
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Subjects:  1. Decorating    2. Decorating - General    3. Home Improvement / Construction    4. House & Home    5. Interior Design - General    6. Residential Interior Design    7. House & Home / Decorating    8. Interior design