Design Alchemy [Hardcover]

Ashley Hicks (Author), Allegra Hicks (Author), Jeremy Irons (Foreword)

Book Description

Publication Date: May 28, 2002

Two talented designers combine their creative visions--resulting in a magnificent fusion of classic and contemporary styles. How do they achieve this incredible synthesis of the old and new, something so free-flowing and organic, with vibrant touches of ethnic and modern? Here are their inspirations and philosophy, and an intimate view of their process of creation. Watch Ashley's furniture and Allegra's textiles as they evolve in the studio, and how the couple brings together different elements, balances contrasting features, and introduces color, form, and texture. Finally, see the completed rooms and how they fit the needs of individual clients, from a maisonette in London to a large villa in Turin. The challenges of six problem rooms are analyzed and met. The results: sophisticated, enduring looks for the timeless interior and a unique portrait of a very special partnership.

Editorial Reviews

From Library Journal

Ashley Hicks, son of the late British interior designer David Hicks, and his wife, Allegra, have become a popular and successful design team in their own right. In this book, they examine the historical and cultural influences on their design and show examples of their work with explanations of their approach. The chapter that explains the process and evolution of some of their furniture and textiles makes this book a great addition to academic interior design collections.
Copyright 2002 Cahners Business Information, Inc.

About the Author

Ashley Hicks is an architect and decorator. Allegra Hicks is a decorative painter and designer of fabrics, carpets and furniture. Together they have formed an internationally acclaimed design partnership and are celebrated for their idiosyncratic design style based on a fresh approach to classical touches.

Product Details

• Hardcover: 160 pages
• Publisher: Conran (May 28, 2002)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 184091193X
• ISBN-13: 978-1840911930
• Product Dimensions: 11.3 x 9.8 x 0.8 inches
• Shipping Weight: 2.4 pounds
• Average Customer Review: 5.0 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (2 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #2,364,301 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

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Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

8 of 8 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Great - inspiring and beautiful, April 10, 2002

By 

[e-mail] (Oxford, UK) - See all my reviews

This review is from: Design Alchemy (Hardcover)

A fascinating insight into the methods and influences of this up-and-coming design partnership, introduced by a foreword from actor Jeremy Irons. Her style is free-flowing and organic; his is classically inspired and architectural. Ranges over their complete oeuvre from Allegra's patterned rugs and fabrics to Ashley's jewelry and furniture. With a brief review of historical inspirations (from ancient Pompeii to modern England), fabulous photographs by Bill Batten, and a wealth of practical advice and beautiful images. The text is both down-to-earth and fascinating, with unexpected humorous touches. Thoroughly recommended for any lover of great design.

5.0 out of 5 stars Great coffee table book, December 5, 2011

By 

Jessica Hacker (Durham, NC) - See all my reviews
(REAL NAME)   

Amazon Verified Purchase

This review is from: Design Alchemy (Hardcover)

I don't like to buy books unless I know I will refer back to them. Most of my pleasure reading comes from the library. That being said, I am very happy that I invested in this Ashley Hicks book. I think I could own all the books written by the Hicks family and be very happy! Great photos and descriptions that translate into surprisingly modern design.