"An essential text for all students of design . . . [and] inspiration and intel for those simply interested in the art and practice." --Alexa Hampton, from the foreword
From the nation's top college for interior design comes a definitive design school in a book and a fabulous reference for decorating the home. In the past decade, New York School of Interior Design, which was founded in 1916, has drawn a large crossover audience of passionate decorating enthusiasts and hobbyists--many of them private homeowners who know that thinking like a professional is the surest way to achieve a magnificent home.
This lavishly illustrated and highly detailed interior design bible provides a comprehensive education on home design and decor, from color theory principles to space-specific considerations (choosing furniture for a living room) and collaborating with architects and other professionals for the best results. Built on the Home Study Course that is the foundation of the school's curriculum, this book offers an unparalleled mastery of the key elements of enduring design, rendering it the only book you'll ever need.
I only read a few chapters, dealing with general approach to designing home, and bedroom. A few notable ideas:
- Choose your favorite object and build room around it. Create a focal point - Who is going to use space? Cater to a specific lifestyle - Itemize and codify belongings - Good design ensures smooth movement, and creates a desired atmosphere (tell a story). Supports a lifestyle - Create an overall concept first, and fit pieces of the puzzle together - Interior design cost - 10% of the value of the property
Apparently a thorough guide for the professional interior decorator, only a small proportion of this book was helpful to me as a private individual trying to figure out how to furnish and decorate a regular, middle-class flat. The book has lots to say about vast interiors and enormous budgets, but that is, unfortunately, not my circumstances.
What the book does have to say about principles (what do people like and dislike about a space, how should you think about colors and fabrics) was mostly helpful. However, I seem to disagree severely with the stylistic choices made by the designers heralded by the book: Many pictures of "good" interior design features decoration that is purely ornamental. I like pretty things, but I dislike things with no purpose.
Possibly, the rating is unfair: The book quite clearly states that it is what I discovered it to be.
PS. Yes, it is December 24th, and I spend a bunch of the evening reading a book about interior design. Thank you, Covid-19 and pre-emptive self-isolation policies.
It's mediocre and boring. It's mostly textbook data for new aspiring home Designers. Not much here for the everyday reader who is looking for more knowledge.