French Influences

"Detail is the difference between ordinary and extraordinary." ~Unknown If you are dreaming of a book filled with rock-crystal chandeliers, Aubusson rugs, exquisite tapestries, feather-filled armchairs, carved armoires, sensuous velvets, leopard prints, silk taffeta curtains and eighteenth-century furnishings, you may fall under the influence of "French Influences." The magnificent picture of a French-inspired kitchen complete with French antiques is enough to make any cook envious. Betty Lou Phillips work has appeared in Southern Accents, Traditional Home & Bath, Window and Wall, and Decorating as well as many magazine covers. She is a professional member of the American Society of Interior Designers and has a penchant for quotes. Welcome to the World of French Style: Making a World of Difference The American Way with French Style Reflections of Good Taste Fluent French French Class Unmistakably French Vive la France! Garden Shows Designer's Notebook The pictures in this book are inspirational and the pink dining room is a fantasy princess dream. I was surprised at how much I really did love the vintage chairs covered in playful leopard prints. There are little tidbits of information throughout the book. Finally, I understand why the rooster is a favorite motif. I would have love to have dissolved into page 146 and taken a stroll through the row of trees on the winding gravel path leading to the unknown. ~The Rebecca Review

While a little "Dallas" in style. This book captures a mixture of French styles. Betty Lou's books are well illustrated. Most importantly, she lists the sources of the items & fabrics. I find it insulting when designers are secretive regarding sources. Keep it up Betty Lou, I wish more coffee table books on decorative arts & design were like yours. I recommend this if it fits your style.

I place this books among my top favorites in the decorating category (and I own many). Each time I flip through this book I see some new ideas that I didn't notice before. The are many beautiful pictures but the text is fun to read as well. The book helps to give you a feel for the way the French live and feel about their homes. Betty Lou Phillips also wrote French by Design which I also enjoyed, but of the two books French Influences is my favorite.

A truly beautiful book!The photographs are absolutely stunning.I am still reading the text, which has been most inspiring to say the least.It has given me some fabulous ideas for my re-decorating project.Highly recommended.

Homeowners who would duplicate the French idea of design and atmosphere will find this an intriguing blend of lavish color photos and discussions of how French ambiance is added to a room. From resources used to achieve changes to the four key elements of interior design and the influences deemed particularly French, Betty Lou Phillips' French Influences is packed with commendable insights.