Customer Reviews

New French Country: A Style and Source Book

5 star:		(13)
4 star:		(1)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(1)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

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.

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 book is written for people who are building, remodeling, and/or decorating a home in the French/European country style. It is a sophisticated study, with many beautiful photos and text. Sources are included in part. The book also shows exteriors, landscaping, gardens, and terraces that are exceptional.

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.

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.

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.

I can see this book is going to sit on the top of the coffee table book pile for a long time to come. Aside from the fabulous photos of French Provincial homes, Dannenberg delicately picks apart the details that make a typical Provincial home and garden. It does the job so much better than we sitting in another continent can grasp from a few photos in a book. It teaches us how to copy this style and really appreciate the quality of each piece of furniture, artwork or chattel we acquire for own little pretend patch of France.
I love this book!

Photography is beautiful throughout entire book. Very informative and inspirational. I highly recommend this book to anyone seeking knowledge of french country design.

Wonderful book on French Country Style. This book is packed with lots of vivid photos but what sets this book apart from all the other styling books is the wealth of information that the author shares with the reader. It is truly a must for any Provencal styling fan.

This is one of the best books on Country French that I've found. The illustrations are wonderful, whether you prefer the older designs or are looking for something with a more modern feel. I loved just looking at the pictures and getting a feel for the colors and styles. This is a book I'll return to again and again to get the feel of the French countryside.