London Living

This is an enjoyable trip through some of London's most interesting living spaces, from apartments to whole houses. The emphasis throughout is on more cutting edge spaces, either modernist or traditionalist reinterpreted in some way. Many of the owners are famous, such as Gilbert and George. Like many interior design books, it offers a look at the Creative Class at home. The author entirely avoids chintz and preciousness. The pictures are of excellent quality, as is the layout. I admit there are some rather uncomfortable looking bathrooms that make me grateful to be an American, but there is that comfortable thrill of looking at something and not having to live in it. For those interested in London and/or in interior decoration, this is a book well worth owning.