Create: At Home with Old & New

by Ali Heath

The much-anticipated follow-up to the highly successful Curate  provides decorating inspiration for homes that beautifully combine both the modern and the antique

Some of the most exciting interiors around are those that combine vintage and antique finds with select contemporary pieces. In Create , interior stylist and journalist Ali Heath encourages you to think imaginatively about how to use old and new at home - introducing individuality and interest, while incorporating the need to decorate more sustainably.

Following on the success of her first book Curate , Create is a visual feast divided into four engaging and informative chapters. Establishing Your Style will fire your imagination, while Adding the Magic considers ten decorating elements, including pattern and texture, display, lighting, and color. In Creative Spaces the homes of a maverick group of 12 antique dealers and interior designers are shared, and the book closes with Inspirations - advice on where to buy period items and how to buy online and at auction. With glorious photography, original drawings and break-out ideas pages, Create will give you the confidence to nurture a home you love - one that celebrates the past while embracing the present and future.

Genres: Design, Coffee Table Books

224 pages, Hardcover

Published July 3, 2023

Reviews

[Ashley]

I enjoyed reading the sections on developing your eye and honing your taste, but that was about it. Every house was white, beige or black and some variation of those colors except for maybe one or two. When she referred to those as maximalism, I laughed. They used slightly more color and usually neutrals. Definitely not what I consider maximalism. This is on me though, I should have researched the book more before deciding to buy to make sure it aligned with my tastes.

[C]

As another reviewer said: "not my thing". I'm a fan of textures and somewhat monochromatic styling but this book seemed to be full of rooms on repeat. Even the "colorful" and "bold" section of the book was drab, dull and grim–probably partly due to lighting (UK design photographers often use natural not studio light). Glad I got it from the library.

[David R Zenz and Julie Zenz]

Just not my thing

I'm sure many people have loved this book. I do like some old things like blue and white transfer wear. None of that in this book, however. So this just wasn't a book I would love.

[Lu Wilson]

I much preferred Create to Heath's earlier book, Curate. This one is warmer, whilst still retaining the natural and neutral decor that I adore. I particularly loved the Coastal Sanctuary and the Reinvented Cottage.

[Paige Redwine]

This book featured homes in the UK and Europe. There was even one in Australia and one in Tasmania. I felt like the writing was just as far-flung as the places, referencing unfamiliar vendors and people. The pictures were lovely but on the whole, this wasn't an inspiring book.

[L]

I like this premise. The styles and colors are all a bit dark and drab for me, though.

[Robin]

Mostly UK homes, but lovely mix of antiques, vintage, and contemporary things with very simple lines.

[Maria]

I loved to read this book, there was so many good ideas.

[Emillie Parrish]

Cottage like interiors focused on whites, greys, and other neutral colours. Similar to Curate Inspiration for an Individual Home. Has good decorating advice.

[Saksham]

This can only be applied if you are someone with generational wealth