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Habitat: The Field Guide to Decorating
From Lauren Liess, an interior designer and founder of the popular blog Pure Style Home , The Field Guide to Decorating is “stunningly simple . . . a survival book for any budding decorator” ( USA Today ).
“Not-always-conventional ideas for livening up any space with art.” ― Country Living
“Tons of tips, advice, and sources.” ― Elements of Style
Lauren Liess fuses her love of design and the great outdoors into all her work. In The Field Guide to Decorating , Lauren invites readers to bring nature inside by mixing the textures of natural elements such as wood and stone with eclectic groupings of modern and quirky vintage pieces.
Readers will be inspired by the unique style of these rooms, which include lovely framed botanical prints and Liess’s own textile patterns inspired by wildflowers and weeds. The book is divided into three Liess writes in her introduction, “This book is a guide to what I’ve learned through my work and through my personal experiences, describing in precise detail how I progress step-by-step through the design process to make the decisions that ultimately lead to a fully realized vision. I hope it inspires you to have fun while decorating.”
If you are thinking of decorating or redecorating a home, you’ll want to have a look at the inspiring ideas that Liess offers—natural, relaxing, and stunning rooms that you, your family, and friends will adore and love to live in.
Includes Color Photographs
“Not-always-conventional ideas for livening up any space with art.” ― Country Living
“Tons of tips, advice, and sources.” ― Elements of Style
Lauren Liess fuses her love of design and the great outdoors into all her work. In The Field Guide to Decorating , Lauren invites readers to bring nature inside by mixing the textures of natural elements such as wood and stone with eclectic groupings of modern and quirky vintage pieces.
Readers will be inspired by the unique style of these rooms, which include lovely framed botanical prints and Liess’s own textile patterns inspired by wildflowers and weeds. The book is divided into three Liess writes in her introduction, “This book is a guide to what I’ve learned through my work and through my personal experiences, describing in precise detail how I progress step-by-step through the design process to make the decisions that ultimately lead to a fully realized vision. I hope it inspires you to have fun while decorating.”
If you are thinking of decorating or redecorating a home, you’ll want to have a look at the inspiring ideas that Liess offers—natural, relaxing, and stunning rooms that you, your family, and friends will adore and love to live in.
Includes Color Photographs
272 pages, Hardcover
First published October 13, 2015
185 people are currently reading
863 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 59 reviews
October 28, 2024
3.5 stars. This was a neat, clean, to-the-point guide to styling your home while making it your own. I often find a lot of design books to seem unattainable without millions of dollars or impractically fussy, but these rooms she designed were GORGEOUS. They incorporated personal touches and a guiding hand of culture and history.
September 13, 2016
Wish I had read this right when we bought our house! A really excellent interior design book, especially for those of us who feel like they have too many ideas and not enough judgment or decisiveness. Love her style and gleaned a lot from her design wisdom (e.g., there's no such thing as a "design emergency;" it's a luxury to be able to decorate your home).
May 14, 2016
Love the idea of her aesthetic, but I don't have the $$$ to back it up.
April 1, 2019
I had hoped that this book would focus on bringing nature into your home, but it is more creating your own natural habitat (whatever that means to you). Her style is a bit too clean, or empty, or modern for me, and it seems somewhat inflexible. As a book to sit down with and take in, it didn't feel quite right. However, if you skipped around to whatever section applies to you (as she does suggest) it could be inspiring. The final section with a room-by-room breakdown was my favorite exclusively because she provides checklists of key items that should go in that room.
December 16, 2022
Summary: So helpful! The only design book I think you should bother with.
This book was far and away the most practical, helpful book I've read on home decorating so far. I can see why home decorating would be a hard topic to give advice on. The authors don't know what I like or what my home is like! It seems like a challenge to give advice that is both specific enough to be helpful and general enough to help most readers. The other books I've read so far have dealt with this by giving very little advice. They each expressed a design philosophy that sounded good. They were each fun to read. And each provided one or two very general set of guidelines you could try implementing using your best judgement. This book was more informative in every way.
This book included three sections, all of which were incredibly helpful. The first section has chapters on specific elements of a home - color, rugs, lighting, finishings, etc. These sections included a lot of numeric rules to consider following and basic reference material. There are things like how wide your walkways between furniture should be; the relative height of your sofa and end tables; and the pros and cons of different rug materials (plus cleaning tips!). I bought the book for this info alone and expect to reference it often.
The second section is on more intangible elements of design - style, mood, comfort, etc. What really surprised me about this section is that the author managed to give advice for achieving these intangible elements that was both specific and general enough. The suggestions were specific enough that I don't feel like I'm winging it. For example, the author suggests using specific colors to convey certain moods. The suggestions were also general enough that they could work for me, even when my taste didn't quite match the authors.
Last but not least, there's a third section with tips for designing every room in your house. This is another section I'm sure to reference, with both some general guidelines and specific lists of elements to include for each room.
This wasn't quite as fun to read cover to cover as some of the fluffier books. It was, however, the only one I bought. I think it's probably now the only one I need. And it was so, so helpful. I cannot recommend this one highly enough.This review was originally posted on Doing Dewey
This book was far and away the most practical, helpful book I've read on home decorating so far. I can see why home decorating would be a hard topic to give advice on. The authors don't know what I like or what my home is like! It seems like a challenge to give advice that is both specific enough to be helpful and general enough to help most readers. The other books I've read so far have dealt with this by giving very little advice. They each expressed a design philosophy that sounded good. They were each fun to read. And each provided one or two very general set of guidelines you could try implementing using your best judgement. This book was more informative in every way.
This book included three sections, all of which were incredibly helpful. The first section has chapters on specific elements of a home - color, rugs, lighting, finishings, etc. These sections included a lot of numeric rules to consider following and basic reference material. There are things like how wide your walkways between furniture should be; the relative height of your sofa and end tables; and the pros and cons of different rug materials (plus cleaning tips!). I bought the book for this info alone and expect to reference it often.
The second section is on more intangible elements of design - style, mood, comfort, etc. What really surprised me about this section is that the author managed to give advice for achieving these intangible elements that was both specific and general enough. The suggestions were specific enough that I don't feel like I'm winging it. For example, the author suggests using specific colors to convey certain moods. The suggestions were also general enough that they could work for me, even when my taste didn't quite match the authors.
Last but not least, there's a third section with tips for designing every room in your house. This is another section I'm sure to reference, with both some general guidelines and specific lists of elements to include for each room.
This wasn't quite as fun to read cover to cover as some of the fluffier books. It was, however, the only one I bought. I think it's probably now the only one I need. And it was so, so helpful. I cannot recommend this one highly enough.This review was originally posted on Doing Dewey
April 1, 2019
I really loved Liess's approach to home decorating in this book. In addition to a wealth of practical advice (how high to hang light fixtures, how to make a floor plan, etc.), this book also touches on the intangible elements of decorating, such as how to cultivate a sense of style, add comfort to a room, or how a well-placed risk can invigorate a design. I also love Liess's aesthetic, which is timeless, organic, and contemporary, with a a hint of romance.
October 12, 2020
One of the better decorating books I've read; still lots of photos of huge rooms in mansions but the principles are clearly stated. Liess' affinity for the natural world is evident in her style.
April 9, 2019
A bit disappointing when I realized I had seen the bulk of the author's house in a blog post and I am not in love with her particular decorating choices (WTF was with that sea sponge chilling in someone's living room- HIDEOUS). The basics in this book are frankly well worn to me as I've been on a design books binge and needless to say, there is nothing new under the sun. Photography was on the whole uninspiring and I wish there had been more on architectural detailing as that's what makes or breaks most of these rooms.
November 22, 2015
I love Lauren Liess' work - beautiful book.
October 17, 2020
I read about this book and was intrigued by the description and the subtitle The Field Guide to Decorating. I knew nothing of the author and it turns out she's got an industry going on - in addition to being a decorator, textile designer, and author of two books, she writes a popular design blog and has five young children. Her husband partners with her in the business and it is possible to get a sense of an unrealistic lifestyle - I wanted to know who did the cooking and parenting in her household, and how she found clients with such big budgets.
The book has an abundance of beautiful color photos which illustrate many of her decorating guidelines. Fundamental elements of design include rugs, lighting, window treatments, floor plan, color. Intangible elements are comfort, charm, and authenticity. The captions describing the photos are productive and descriptive and if that's all you read you will still enjoy the book and its helpful information.
Despite her guidelines, Lauren does say "let go." It comes down to being comfortable and "to realize that real homes have a bit of mess at times, and that's OK." Thanks, Lauren! Because otherwise readers could feel depressed that their homes will never live up to those you have designed.
I didn't like all her design choices, but appreciated her explanations for those choices. I was encouraged to see that she admires quirks and inconsistencies. So if she ever comes over to my house, I hope she will enjoy its authenticity and personality.
The book has an abundance of beautiful color photos which illustrate many of her decorating guidelines. Fundamental elements of design include rugs, lighting, window treatments, floor plan, color. Intangible elements are comfort, charm, and authenticity. The captions describing the photos are productive and descriptive and if that's all you read you will still enjoy the book and its helpful information.
Despite her guidelines, Lauren does say "let go." It comes down to being comfortable and "to realize that real homes have a bit of mess at times, and that's OK." Thanks, Lauren! Because otherwise readers could feel depressed that their homes will never live up to those you have designed.
I didn't like all her design choices, but appreciated her explanations for those choices. I was encouraged to see that she admires quirks and inconsistencies. So if she ever comes over to my house, I hope she will enjoy its authenticity and personality.
June 9, 2023
This is just a good guide to home decorating, with nice pictures. I think it only features about four houses she’s worked on lately, but they were pretty good ones. It probably isn’t really worth 5 stars, but I have decided I like Lauren Liess and we could be friends. She was an eccentric kid who got into plant field guides and natural remedies and now her decorating involves plenty of bookshelves for people and “even if your house is small, if you really want a library, you should try to work it in.”
I am a little bit in love with a formal foyer she designed. She found four grisailles, cobalt-blue monochrome paintings, rescued from a grand house just before the French Revolution, and also gave the room reclaimed marble tile floors.
I am going to go read all of her other books. So five stars it is.
I am a little bit in love with a formal foyer she designed. She found four grisailles, cobalt-blue monochrome paintings, rescued from a grand house just before the French Revolution, and also gave the room reclaimed marble tile floors.
I am going to go read all of her other books. So five stars it is.
January 31, 2017
When I visit the library, it is hard to resist snatching up a decorating book or two. "Habitat" was on the new book shelf and I did not hesitate to check it out. It is a lovely book, full of advice and beautiful photos. Unlike many interior design bibles, it does not exclude the average homeowner from its intended audience. The author explains basic design principles in an understandable fashion and provides checklists that the reader can follow while they decorate room by room. I actually read this book, cover to cover, unlike most interior decorating books which have persuaded me to focus solely on the photos. Unless you are a serious designer, you may not want to purchase this book... but you may want to see if it is on the shelf at your local library!
February 25, 2018
As a twenty-something who knows nothing about interior design and about to rent my first apartment without 3+ roommates for the first time in my life, this was a really good & simple how-to-decorate intro. Even if you're not into her style, the guides, basic principles and resources on where to buy furniture and other home goods (which do lean towards the expensive side, but there are some budget-friendly options) she provides are clearer and more practical than other interior design books and websites I've come come across. Having said that, I got this on loan as an e-book from my library, and I'm not at a point in life where I'd pay $20 for it. A lot of the advice + products cited are also clearly geared towards wealthier homeowners, but I still found it good for inspiration/guidance.
May 22, 2021
I did enjoy this book and the interiors. For me this book was closer to a 3.5. I found the beginning sections that were organized by design and home elements very informative and helpful. I like how she compared materials, styles, and feels. The second section, the "je ne sais quoi" was a little...vague. Then the last section where you go room by room just felt like an add-on at the end. Not that this is a big deal but I don't really feel like the cover represents her style well. She had some good tidbits but either they were repeated multiple times throughout the book or not organized as effectively as I would have liked. I'd like to look at her other books because I do like her ideas though.
February 9, 2021
Excellent introduction to the elements of interior design and decorating. In Habitat, Liess provides comprehensive topical discussions as well as room-by-room advice. I loved this book because Liess provides actual advice and information on how to use the elements of design to create well composed spaces, instead of just pictures of beautiful rooms with a description. Whether you share her aesthetic or not, you can learn a lot from this book about the basic elements and process of interior design and decorating.
October 17, 2022
Actually read this start to finish as opposed to usually just flipping through photos. Filled with practical tips, some resonated, some not. I like the natural aesthetic she has and found some of it very pretty. Not so much on other ones but understandably as design can be so personal and subjective. Found the room by room guide at the end handy. My fave was how she walks you through choosing things that matter to you, not just fillers for the walls. Also advised to go with gut--if you love it at first sight then try it!
October 31, 2022
TL; DR: yeah, five stars: this “field guide” accomplishes exactly what it sets out to do, covering a ton of ground without being pedantic or preachy. Some of it feels a little “well, duh”, but that’s easy to say when you’re looking at a great example of a well-designed space, and harder to do from scratch. Liess writes in a conversational style, eschewing excessive industry jargon but explaining unfamiliar terms and concepts when appropriate.
Fwiw, I actually did read the entire book in one day, including taking notes on several upcoming projects in my own house.
Fwiw, I actually did read the entire book in one day, including taking notes on several upcoming projects in my own house.
June 24, 2025
I got this book from the library as an alternative to scrolling in the evening. I think I learned a lot. I like how they have pictures that work for different chapters (e.g. couch shape, style, and color chapters) and explain what's going on. You can definitely tell Liess' style, even with her different clients, but there were some interesting insights and ideas, like having a courtyard attached to the main bedroom and a little survey at the back of the book to help you identify your priorities.
July 7, 2017
I think I will be buying this one (just returned it to my library). I really like Lauren's style... and her philosophy that your house should reflect you and your family in a timeless way, not have a certain look or follow a trend. I also like that she teaches the reader about general guideline and provides checklists for rooms. Not to mention the beautiful photos. This is a design book I actually read through!
December 18, 2025
Actually 3.5 stars. Liess presents her decorating philosophy clearly and makes it directly accessible and useful to the reader. The photos are well staged and inspiring. However, the functionality of many ideas is not addressed (a common issue in decorating books) and the designs focus on large, expensive presentation which can be discouraging to readers with limited resources and smaller scale homes.
October 8, 2020
As a nature-lover and book-lover, I loved Lauren Liess' approach to decorating! Lots of great info and ideas in this book for anyone wanting help figuring out how to decorate their space. Even though I didn't love all of her examples, this was a great resource to spark some ideas to match my own esthetic.
December 4, 2020
I liked the unusual way this book was organized. It was indeed a field guide, with more than one way to look for and find useful information on all aspects of decorating.
Tons of gorgeous photos and easy-to-understand information.
Every now and then I pick up a book like this just to absorb good design and find inspiration. Gice yourself time to enjoy it.
Tons of gorgeous photos and easy-to-understand information.
Every now and then I pick up a book like this just to absorb good design and find inspiration. Gice yourself time to enjoy it.
July 14, 2022
Whether you're moving into a new home, of any size; or renovating your first house; this book is chock full of detailed information and inspiration. Room by room, each detail from furniture to rugs, floor and art or design elements, this book will help you realize a lively home all your own. It is an excellent reference guide that is useful for years to come.
November 24, 2023
A beautiful book with tons of pictures! Ms. Liess takes her readers through flooring and color choices as well as how to find things that compliment your style and your idea of luxury. Your home should be a place you enjoy being and just because something "works" does not mean that it is something you like or that you should keep it.
January 1, 2017
This is another one I read for work. She really gets into the nitty-gritty of decorating rules and advice. It read like a textbook a bit, but there was a lot of reading material, especially for the cost of the book.
This book is definitely for someone with more traditional style choices.
This book is definitely for someone with more traditional style choices.
February 3, 2019
A look into an interior designer's thought process, with specific advice for analyzing proportions of furniture to each other and how to make a room the desired level of "busyness" that appeals to you. Lots of pretty pictures of a clean aesthetic with mixing of old and new pieces.
August 1, 2023
ordinary decorating
In this book I thought the author showed photographs of ordinary rooms. I can’t think of one room where the decor and furnishings were memorable . I was looking for wow .
In this book I thought the author showed photographs of ordinary rooms. I can’t think of one room where the decor and furnishings were memorable . I was looking for wow .
July 7, 2019
This is the best design book I’ve read. I’ve followed Lauren for years online, so some of got spaces in the book I’ve seen before. Still though, so good!
July 15, 2019
Beautiful book- skimmed book at pictures and chapter beginnings so inspiring.
May 22, 2020
This was really interesting but not very practical in real life
Displaying 1 - 30 of 59 reviews