Customer Reviews

Michael S. Smith Houses

5 star:		(4)
4 star:		(2)
3 star:		(3)
2 star:		(1)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

Almost nobody does tea-stained, mismatched, nap-friendly Granny Modern as well as Michael Smith. It is a reassuring, pretty, traditional, warm and comfortable style at which Smith succeeds admirably. The photos and accompanying text are equally pleasant. Can't help wishing for just a splash of something edgy, dissonant and slightly incongruous in each room, however, to advance the tradition forward, keep the style evolving and upset the balance just a little.

An excellent second effort from the designer to the super rich. Smith has exquisite taste and clearly a connoisseur's eye. The designer's own written text gives one good insight into the interior designer's inspirations and jumping off points for his interior schemes. The photography is splendid. A must for any design follower who relishes the English country house ideal as freshened by a young American.

As an Interior Designer this book is a must have. I completely enjoyed his explanations and in sites into the creation of his most interesting and wonderful home. Michael Smith's close working relationship with his esteemed architect is such an important part of the success of this project. The reader is entertained from start to finish with gorgeous photography and his ability to reveal with such eloquence his design process, style and ideas.

Not nearly as good as his first book "Elements of Style". Although I am a big fan of Michael and his work (he is one of the most talented designers), the photos were horrendous, they all appeared yellowish and not all that clear. I did enjoy the text; Michael has a way with words and expresses himself with precision and humor.

I've long admired interiors designed by Michael Smith, and have installed his line of fixtures for Kallista in my bathroom. His latest book explains his design process by touring his own home and several others. The commentary is wonderful, and will give the reader a preview of what he will do to redecorate the private residence of President Obama's White House. Terrific!

I really love his work in his other book (The Elements of Style) but here everything's a crashing bore, and the image quality isn't very pretty. I was very surprised to find myself not into it at all while going through the pages and also realizing that not even one room stood out. I also have no interest in looking through this book again, unlike his other book, which I revisit regularly.

I'd check it out in a brick and mortar store before buying it -- unless you want a book to put you to sleep before bed. :)

"Houses" is an excellent work for those with no concerns about spending but with an interest in a classy blend of colors, textures and furniture in a variety of settings. Michael S. Smith's book takes readers through more than a dozen examples of his work, ranging from beachfront homes in California to a residence in London, a home on Martha's Vineyard and a Long Island estate. Smith's homes each have their own look but carry his stamp of hybrid styles and classic tastes. This is a useful book for interior designers and fans of the quiet, moneyed look, especially those who like Smith's subtle style. No one image in this well-photographed book screams out for attention but quality pours off every page.

Its not as good as Michael Smith's previous book "Elements of Style". The houses presented are predictable and all appear to have a similar style, and this book seems to promote Smith as a decorator (through future projects like the Majorca house)and dealing with his life history and his motivations (which he is still too young for)instead of giving the reader information and ilustrations on different solutions and approaches of interior design. After having read "Elements of Style", this book is weak, boring, and a let down.

I got this book as I was interested to know what the Obama's new decorator was like. I am a fan of the English traditional look. I enjoyed the stories about projects Michael Smith has worked on but found, like another reviewer, the interiors presented lacked excitement and wit. I don't know whether it is just the photos aren't that clear or what it is, the photos are a bit dull. I saw Michael Smith's work in photos in the magazine Domino and they seemed much better presented, better lighting etc.

I personally prefer the great English interior designer, Nina Campbell's books. They seem to have that excitement, glamour and unexpected quality that I am looking for. It's just a personal opinion though.

I've been a fan of Michael's for a while, and got to briefly meet him at an event in Los Angeles a few year back.

This book really contains a wonderful collection of his projects. this has been on my coffee table since Christmas