Architecture and Design Library: Italian Country

This is a tabletop book. It is well photographed-i bought it to look at interiors of Italian country houses and i would have liked more interiors rather than exteriors, but it was a good purchase.

A woman that is passionately in love with Italy and all things Italian writes this review. Once I traveled to Italy, I wanted to bring that look back to my home. I purchased this book about 10 years ago and I still refer to it regularly when I am embarking on a new decorating project. I am an avid do-it-yourselfer and love to do things around the house. This book concentrates on the Italian countryside, its landscape, rustic architecture and simple lifestyle. These are things that define Italian living for me. The book contains beautiful photographs of both villas and farmhouses. This book covers interiors and exteriors on the Amalfi Coast, Tuscany, and the Italian Alps. The book is subdivided as follows: 1. Architectural Details 2. Kitchens and Dining Rooms 3. Living Spaces 4. Bed and Bath There are many photographs in this book on both house interiors and exteriors that I find to be very inspirational from a decorating perspective. If you are looking for either painting or decorating ideas this book has much to offer. I have duplicated some of the interiors in my own home. Even though I live in an old Victoria, the techniques have blended beautifully and the effect is undeniably Italian. The exterior photographs of this book are very appealing. I have been slowing changing the landscaping on my property to reflect a more Italian way of life. I think you will be inspired to create an alfresco dining space after you have seen some of the beautiful landscape photographs. If you are looking for a book that shows the major cities of Rome, Venice or Milan, this is not the book for you. This book focuses on the countryside and the Italian country way of life. If you would like to duplicate the more laid back Italian lifestyle in your own home, I recommend this book.

This book is nothing like I expected. Italian country is very different than the "normal" Italian interior design. It offers a more laid back sense than what I would usually think of as more formal. The furniture in the pictures is beautiful but difficult to achieve the same effect with other types of furnishings. The general feel of the book is bringing the outside in. Beautiful wall treatments and many natural look themes. This is my second book from this series, I'm surly going to get more.

I purchased this book some time ago and have used its elements in decorating a guest bedroom and a formal dining room in my own home. The pictures are beautiful and the furnishings divine. It gave me so many wonderful ideas for the other rooms of my house that it is beginning to show the ravages of time! Definitely worth the money, a wonderful coffee table book or conversation piece--or, in my case, an inspiration to decorate! The only drawback is in finding the same sort of furnishings here in the Midwest at a reasonable price! I am very satisfied with my purchase.