New French Country: A Style and Source Book

Really a wonderful book - both beautiful to look at and informative. Very interesting reading, as well as artistically lovely with wonderful, colorful photography. I am not a decorator or designer by trade, but go to this type of book for creative inspiration, and this one was a winner.

If you want detailed descriptions of French design elements, including their history, this is the book for you. If you just want room pictures, this may not work for you, as it is text-heavy. I just love it.

This is a beautiful book and the author and photographer have done a splendid job in choosing a variety of homes so the book is very eclectic which also makes it a fun book. Think the book will be helpful for those who want a more formal country style with French design. The colours the authors have chosen are very vibrant and even city style, since there is an abundance of wallpaper, and 'stuff' in most of the rooms shown. About the only 'new French country' home or rooms I can say 'I know', are on pages 147-155 in the chapter titled Zen Provencal In The Heart Of A Village which probably tells you where I hang out in France. Clean lines and easy living style home, that made me think of my Zen cottage here in California. The Directory starting on page 289 is splendid and a must read.

Of the many books I've read and collected on French Country style and decorating, this is the best and most thorough. The book is set up into categories and is concise, beautifully depicted in large color photos, with accompanying text. NOT a coffee table book, but a true reference book for French Country decorating.

This is not just a book of photographs, although they are beautifully executed. The author knows her subject and conveys explanatory information about the elements of French country style that allow the reader to understand how it evolved and how the landscape and natural materials have shaped it. It begins with separate chapters on color, fabric, pottery, elements and accents, then follows with photos of specific properties, finishing with a chapter on Provencal gardens and a directory of sources in Provence. Recommended for anyone wanting to understand and execute a similar style in their own living environment, or for just a lovely coffee table book.