Anyone who knows me, knows how much I love a good decorating book (magazines too, but that’s for another blog post). Books make great gifts for anyone who loves interiors and home design. The problem is, everyone is afraid to buy them for me because they think I may already have it. Chances are they’re right. While I’m buying the newest design books as a gift for family and friends, I may or may not buy them as a gift for myself too…
There are so many decorating books out there right now, that it can be overwhelming. For me the criteria is simple. Do I love more than half of the photos in the book? And will it be something I can refer back to over and over again? If the answer to either of those is no, it’s not for me!
Here are a few of my recent favorites…
Beekman 1802 Style by Brent Ridge and Josh Kilmer-Purcell is one I stumbled upon in my local bookstore. My parents are in the process of building a new home in Vermont and I was looking for an inspiration book as a Christmas gift. I love the modern country aesthetic in this one. And there are LOTS of gorgeous pictures!
One of the many beautiful spaces in Beekman 1802 Style
Ellen DeGeneres’ Home was a pleasant surprise. I knew she was a design aficionado and that she had recently purchased a home here in Santa Barbara. What I didn’t realize was how much fun her homes were! I love her mix of modern art and beautiful antiques. She also showcases homes of friends and design collaborators that make for an interesting glimpse into some truly unique spaces.
I had been eagerly awaiting the publication of Lauren Liess’ book, Habitat. I have been reading her blog for quite some time and following her progress in designing for clients and for herself. This girl has got style and so does her new book!
I’m also a fan of India Hicks. I bought her first book, Island Life, many years ago when I lived in Connecticut. Her sense of style and the story of how she left her busy life to move her family to the Bahamas to live a calmer, more peaceful existence spoke to me. Many years later, I am now living a simpler, more scaled-down life in Santa Barbara. Her new book, Island Style, is a book to not only look at but to READ!
Life Style by Tricia Foley is another gorgeous book for those who love white and clean, simple spaces. I have loved her work for many years. Her love of her homes and creating a place that is comfortable to be in, resonated with me. I strive for the same in my own home. What’s the point of a pretty space if you don’t feel comfortable there? It reminds me of being a kid and your mom saying “You can look, but don’t touch.” Ms. Foley has clean line elegance down to a T!
My idea of a perfect outdoor space from Tricia Foley’s book
And last, but certainly not least, Emily Henderson’s Styled. This gal blows me away. I remember watching her on HGTV’s Design Star (which she won) and thinking, this girl is going places. Several years later she has her own design business, an uber successful blog, a contract with Target, her own home which she is remodeling, a new book, and oh yes, she had two babies while all of this was happening. I’m tired just writing about all of her accomplishments! What I love about Ms. Henderson is the humor and fun that she incorporates in her decorating. Decorating shouldn’t be scary or intimidating! I have a passion for styling and detail which is probably why I enjoy this book so much.
I don’t know about you, but I will be spending New Year’s Day with family, curled up with some of my new books by a fire and planning my next venture! It has been an amazing year filled with family, new friends and inspiring projects. Wishing everyone a happy and healthy 2016!
