Classic Country

by Kathryn Ireland

Kathryn M. Ireland is among the world's most influential interior and fabric designers. Her relaxed, casual European-influenced elegance is sought after by everyone from Hollywood A-listers to English aristocracy. In Kathryn Ireland's Comfortable Country Kathryn has gathered together her favorite interiors and fabric designs in one inspirational volume, sharing her inspirations and complete design, color, and fabric schemes for kitchens, living rooms, bedrooms, guest rooms, children's rooms, outdoor living spaces, and more. Sumptuously photographed and illustrated, this book showcases Ireland's boldly hued, brilliantly patterned designs along with detailed explanations of inspiration and construction.

Genres: Nonfiction

224 pages, Hardcover

First published September 12, 2007

Reviews

[Beth Bonini · Rating 2 out of 5]

It would be unfair to say that this book offers no advice on interior decoration, but its raison d'être is to be a showcase for Kathryn Ireland's fabric range - and for Kathryn Ireland herself. In her own words: Classic Country is a reference tool for anyone who loves colors, texture and layering of fabrics to help bring life to a room.

I do love fabric - and I appreciate that Kathryn Ireland knows a lot on that subject - but the tone of this book did grate on me. If she's not bragging on herself, then one of her famous friends or clients is bragging for her.

I'm known for my parties. My mother was a great hostess and good at mixing people. It's really such an art but something that comes naturally to me. (Kathryn bragging on herself)

Kathryn's fabrics are a total reflection of her personality - vibrant, captivating, completely original, and classy. (Kathryn's client bragging on her behalf.)

I do like Kathryn's style, although this book (pub in 2007) is somewhat dated. Country style doesn't change so much, though, and if you like English style that is very 'cosy country house' you will enjoy seeing how she uses fabrics to dress a room. She does a good job of showcasing a real range of colours and not just sticking to one palette. She is adept at serene looking rooms, but she's not someone who just sticks to the neutral colour spectrum.

She does give a person confidence to experiment - partly by imparting advice on how to build a room through a few key details (fabric, a favourite picture, an important piece of furniture) - but she does somewhat undercut this by suggesting that either you have taste or you don't. This is such a 'classic' Kathryn Ireland quote that I will close with it: Unless you have gut instincts about mixing fabrics and lending textures and patterns, it's better to rely on a decorator's sense. I love it when clients trust my gut instincts. They're always surprised and delighted with the results.

[Barbara · Rating 3 out of 5]

I bought Classic Country because of the interesting and very pretty pictures and wasn't disappointed in them.

I also looked forward to getting ideas and inspiration from what Kathryn Ireland had to say about her attractive decorating style but the text is slangy, meandering, even sub-literate - sometimes it wasn't clear to me what the author meant.

There was lots of self-praise but few insights, tips or technical details were shared.

[Anna · Rating 4 out of 5]

My all time favorite decorating book. The textiles are amazing, the rooms look like home. I can't wait to make a home for my family this year - that is my gift to them. Thank you K. Ireland for your gift of beauty.

[Relyn · Rating 2 out of 5]

Some good eye candy, but not compelling.