Michael Taylor: Interior Design

by Stephen M. Salny

The life and work of the groundbreaking interior designer and inventor of the "California Look." One of the most innovative, imitated, and internationally respected design icons of the twentieth century, Michael Taylor brought with him a new vision that changed California's, and the profession's, approach to interiors. More than fifty of his commissions and other projects, ranging from classical to "Californian," illustrate the breadth of his talent. 300 color photographs

325 pages, Hardcover

First published January 26, 2009

Reviews

[quoms · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the book that all interior design monographs should aspire to be. Meticulously researched, comprehensive in scope, appreciative without veering into sycophancy.

We are, in a way, ironically lucky that Michael Taylor lived while magazine publishing (and color photography) was commonplace, but before the age of monographs. Most living designers of any caliber will almost certainly never get this level of treatment, simply because they publish their projects four or five at a time in books full of puff that are thinly disguised advertisements for their own businesses. There'll be no point in compiling it, in the end. (Doubly lucky that Suzanne Tucker changed the name of the company, so no one has a vested interest in defending the honor of Michael Taylor the brand).

A word of caution to aspiring designers, though - it's fine to copy Michael Taylor's style (many do!), but don't copy his attitude. Everyone wants to be this larger-than-life personality, everyone wants to boss their clients around - but if you behave like Michael Taylor and you don't have the absolute raw talent on display in this book, you're just being a jackass.

[Michelle · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great photos highlighting the career of a great stylist.