The Essential House Book

by Terence Conran

In this home-design reference book for the '90s, the five main sections show the reader how to develop a personal sense of style and to carry it through to reality, whether in major structural changes or smaller design touches. There is additional advice on the best decorating and furnishing options, a checklist of maintenance tips, and an index of useful addresses including advisory bodies, architects, designers, suppliers and shops.

Genres: Interior Design, Design, Nonfiction, Architecture, Reference, Art

272 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 1994

About the author

Sir Terence Conran was educated at Bryanston School, Dorset, and trained as a textile designer at the Central School of Arts and Crafts in London. Hand in hand with his much-publicized career as an arbiter of good taste for a whole generation goes a career in cookery and restaurant management. Having learned the basic skills in the kitchens of a two-star Parisian establishment, he opened several small restaurants in London.These were later sold to finance his fast-expanding furniture business, from which grew the hugely successful Habitat stores. No-one has had a greater influence on contemporary living style than Conran. From the outset of his career, in the brilliant era of the '60s, he devoted his talents to interpreting the home-making aspirations of the bright, busy people of his generation - and to providing them with an excellence of craftsmanship and design at a price they could afford.

Reviews

[Jackie C]

This was one of the first interior design books I came across that felt like an encyclopedia of design "do"'s. I love this book.

[Hannah Jane]

Let me start by saying that this is a big ass book. I think I burned calories reading it. It definitely wasn't a book I could curl up with. That's usually a big fat negative with me. But fortunately this book had me jazzed up. It's a really good go-to book, very accessible and understandable.

[Chrissie]

I have had this book for a long time and I highly recommend it. Not just for the pictures but b/c it helps you figure out what is important to change when you are renovating a house. So many books just offer pictures, this book is really worth reading.

[Leah]

Anyone have a million shekels to lend me so I can redo my new house? :)

[Efrat]

An essential must, for ideas, how to, substrates and more.

[Tiffany]

Meh. Lots of essays telling me I need to check my budget before making any house changes, accompanied by pictures of white-walled spaces. Not terribly exciting or informative.

[Michael Heath-Caldwell]

Interesting large book on interior design from the Conran group.

[Johanna]

Looks a little dated now, but great inspiration from a master!

[Kent]

this book has a wide variety of designs to gain inspiration from.