The Illustrated Cottage: A Decorative Fairy Tale Inspired by Provence

by Nina Williams, Fisher & Chappell (Illustrator), Keith Scott Morton (Photographer)

Country Living editor Niña Williams had never visited Provence, yet visions of that fabled French region permeated her dreams. And so, with a little help from some talented artists, she transformed her own simple Denver home (inside and out) into a small bit of Provençal heaven. Everywhere trompe l'oeil murals turn the walls into a storybook peopled with imaginary characters and landscapes from a tiny imaginary Provençal village. And each detail, from the ceramic dishes to the small soaps in the bathroom to the wrought iron furniture on the patio, has the perfect Provençal touch. Williams herself explains her inspiration, and the reasons behind all her choices. A pure delight and true original, this blend of romance and design primer also includes tasty tidbits like Provençal recipes (Garlic Rabbit) and information on the Provençal crafts of lacemaking, enamelware, and more.

Genres: Interior Design

144 pages, Hardcover

First published December 31, 2001

Reviews

[Tony · Rating 2 out of 5]

My Grade = 75% - C

I found this book in Hardcover in a Thrift Shop for $1. I live in a 1924 Prairie Style Arts and Crafts Bungalow, and I am very attached to Cottage Style decorating, so I thought I might gleam some cool ideas from it.

Unfortunately, it was not so much the book that was illustrated, but ONE cottage in Provence. Each wall of the cottage was frescoed with scenes of different people, animals, places, etc.

I was looking for things I could use, but was disappointed. Even the decorating scheme was way too formal for my "find it on the curb and bring it home and use it" style.

[Angela · Rating 3 out of 5]

The artwork was fabulous and probably looks better up close.

[Kerry · Rating 5 out of 5]

Beautiful murals, so lifelike

[Paulette]

Sounded entertaining.....