There are three sections in this book:
Part 1: The 7 Elements of Great Design
Part 2: Atmosphere at Home
Part 3: Details Complete the Design
In the first section Howard, covers his elements of design: Style, Scale & Proportion, Rhythm, Light, Color, Texture, and Sound. As a layperson with a small library of design books, I found this section a bit tedious and boring to read. The first 6 elements are things that are commonly discussed in design books, with sound being the only concept that was a bit unique. For me, this section didn’t add anything of value. Perhaps someone new to design books might find something helpful, although with only 1-2 pages of text and mostly photos this is not a how-to book.
The second section is the heart of the book where Howard showcases 5 of his projects, including his own home in the Hamptons. There are lots of neutrals throughout, although he does also use blue and a few other colors here and there. As I read the chapter on the designer’s home and he mentioned that it was built by Bobby McAlpine, I felt a certain ‘ah-ha’ moment as there is a certain similarity in Howard’s style. I pulled out McAlpine’s Poetry of Place and confirmed my feeling, although McAlpine’s interiors have more drama and interest.
In viewing each of the kitchens in this book, I felt that the designer needed to spread out of his comfort zone as they all seemed very similar. Lots of white marble, most with white cabinets (although one adds black as well), and even similar light fixtures show up in a few of them. The kitchens are large and with all the white and bright surfaces, they also seem a bit industrial.
I would have liked more variety in the different projects, although he did have one beautiful dining room, I found most of the homes a bit too similar in décor for my preference. Lot of neutrals and modern art, mixed with more classic yet modern furniture.
The third section, Details Complete the Design, seemed like an afterthought. With only one page of text, 5 pages of photos it didn’t add much to the book.
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Very talented designer with a classic, luxury portfolio. Obviously, his clientele have money, but the ideas and beautiful design can be an inspiration for anyone with any budget. I wish there were more of his projects shown rather than just a limited number of homes. As an interior designer, it was very enjoyable to see his work.
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Top reviews from the United States
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Reviewed in the United States 🇺🇸 on December 19, 2021
Reviewed in the United States 🇺🇸 on January 10, 2020
Very talented designer with a classic, luxury portfolio. Obviously, his clientele have money, but the ideas and beautiful design can be an inspiration for anyone with any budget. I wish there were more of his projects shown rather than just a limited number of homes. As an interior designer, it was very enjoyable to see his work.
Images in this review
Reviewed in the United States 🇺🇸 on July 5, 2020
Reviewed in the United States 🇺🇸 on May 10, 2020
Wonderful rooms that are classic and elegant and don't look decorated. There is a reference and sources section that is also useful.
Reviewed in the United States 🇺🇸 on May 14, 2020Reviewed in the United States 🇺🇸 on October 5, 2020
Top reviews from other countries
FGHM
Stands out from the rest
Reviewed in the United Kingdom 🇬🇧 on June 25, 2022
FGHM
Reviewed in the United Kingdom 🇬🇧 on June 25, 2022
I was initially reluctant to buy this book, thinking it’s going to be just another one in the former camp. However the book has impressed me. It is indeed filled with inspirational pictures, some are perhaps not the most cutting edge fashionable which in fact make them rather reassuring in a wasteful trend-led world, but it is packed with detailed explanations aimed at drawing out timeless principles. Every picture is accompanied with a detailed “why”. I attach a random page here as an example.
The author has talent, professional training and decades of real life experience, and he is ABLE to share his insights. I highly recommend this book. It deserves far more attention.
Images in this review
Simon Westcarr
Great illustrated book of stylish interiors
Reviewed in the United Kingdom 🇬🇧 on May 3, 2022Amazon Customer
The whole Mr & Mrs Howard thing -- Brilliant!
Reviewed in Canada 🇨🇦 on April 6, 2019
