In the Neoclassic Style: Empire, Biedermeier, and the Contemporary Home [Paperback]

Melanie Fleischmann (Author), Mick Hales (Photographer)

Book Description

Publication Date: September 1996

Empire, the sleek, rich style of the Napoleonic era, is at the heart of the revival of classical themes in interior design. This work celebrates the legacy of objects left by this style - from couches to cabinets, wall hangings to murals, and silverwork to porcelain - and shows how these classic forms can be reused in today's homes, whether an elegant salon or a minimalist structure of glass and steel. The final chapter illustrates interior styles by designers such as Michael Graves, John Saladino and Bob Patino to show the limitless possibilities of the neoclassic style.

Editorial Reviews

From Publishers Weekly

Fleischmann, a freelance writer, here defines the neoclassical "look"how to recognize and fit it into contemporary decors. Hers is the quintessential "packaged" book: breezy, photogenic; short on text, long on source addresses. Capitalizing on the recent revival of neoclassical style, particularly the Empire of Napoleonic France, the author briefly discusses Austrian Biedermeier, English Regency and American Federal traditions, and invites contemporary architectsMichael Graves, Bob Patino, John Saladinoto explain their own neoclassical projects. When combined in one home, such allied styles are said to result in "New Neo." Fleischmann favors description over detailed historical analysis, singling out motifs and furnishings (clocks, chairs, daybeds) for attention. Clearly dedicated to inspiring ambitious decorating schemes, she occasionally strains ("Empire has a little something for every part of the human psyche"). Full-color photographs abound, though some offer different views of the same few rooms.
Copyright 1988 Reed Business Information, Inc. --This text refers to an out of print or unavailable edition of this title.

Product Details

• Paperback: 158 pages
• Publisher: Thames & Hudson (September 1996)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0500279055
• ISBN-13: 978-0500279052
• Product Dimensions: 10.2 x 9.8 x 0.5 inches
• Shipping Weight: 1 pounds
• Average Customer Review: 2.3 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (3 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #1,693,661 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

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Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

1 of 1 people found the following review helpful:

2.0 out of 5 stars GREAT HISTORY, BAD DECOR IDEAS, October 29, 2009

By 

LIZZY "Wife & Cat Mom" (Culver City, CA) - See all my reviews

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This review is from: In the Neoclassic Style: Empire, Biedermeier, and the Contemporary Home (Paperback)

The history on the style of the neoclassical elements and its political influence is very interesting. The photos, however, are from the 1980's and sadly reflect it...too dated for the 21st century home. If the book were to be updated showing us more true period pieces mixed in with 21st century settings, it would be perfect.

1 of 1 people found the following review helpful:

4.0 out of 5 stars Great book, February 9, 2009

By 

Tai I. Rivera "ms tai rivera" (Miami,FL) - See all my reviews

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This review is from: In the Neoclassic Style: Empire, Biedermeier, and the Contemporary Home (Paperback)

I am new to Neoclassic design but I must say that this book is a good inspiration. It is a great price for what it is and definetly better than Hollywood redux.

1.0 out of 5 stars Verys 80's dissapointed, July 6, 2009

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Stefano B (all around the world) - See all my reviews

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This review is from: In the Neoclassic Style: Empire, Biedermeier, and the Contemporary Home (Paperback)

I recived this book today, going throught it its not a good book the historys good but the houses and decor is very 1980s it looks a bit tacky. not a fan would not recomend it.