1 comments about Paradise by Design: Tropical Resorts and Residences by Bensley Design Studios.

1. This is a fabulous book! I just finished reading it cover to cover and I am amazed at the quality of design and how great the photos are! Well worth the money as this Mr Bensley is a true artist. The designs are inspirational and truely maxamilist....minimalisism is boring!

4 comments about How to Start a Home-Based Interior Design Business, 4th (Home-Based Business Series).

1. I am an interior designer. I was incredibly disappointed with this book. The author spends a single paragraph on what a designer actually does, then dismisses it as the lesser direction to go in. The purpose of a designer is to provide a service to clients, to provide guidance, advice, expertise, and help them create a beautiful space.
   
   Unfortunately this book spends much of its time concentrating on the sales aspect of the business. By doing this you do not have the interest of the client at heart, the concern is more about the sale of an item, and upselling the client, than providing the client with a service. I find this to be a conflict of interest, and incredibly unethical. Design is not about selling products to a client, but providing a service to them. Everyone who is an entrepreneur does have to be a salesperson, but a designer is selling their experience, knowledge, and expertise, not vertical blinds.
   
   I was upset at the example the author gave in chapter 9, on how to convince a client to purchase something the client did not feel they could afford. It is incredibly unprofessional of an interior designer to state that they accept all major credit cards, and can provide financing. A designer is there to provide a service, not financing.
   
   This book does have a place in the world, it is perfect for a salesperson as well as a decorator. a great example of how this would work, is if you were interested in having a showroom of products. It also has some great information on marketing ideas, it is acurate on some of the essential parts of a designer/decorator career. But is a misrepresentation of the profession to claim to be an interior designer when in essence you are a salesperson.



2. I agree with Juan's assessment that using "Interior Design" in the title could mislead potential readers. Since Juan sufficiently addressed this issue in his review, let's now assume that this book is titled more correctly, "How to Start a Home-Based Interior Decorating Business".
   
   After a successful 11-year career in apparel design/production, I found myself jobless due to corporate downsizing. After soul-searching and research, I decided that I wanted to go into business for myself and that becoming an interior decorator would be a perfect fit for my skills and interests. So I purchased this book several months ago and have referred to it on an almost daily basis as I take steps to set up my business.
   
   Ms. Phillips has a clear, concise writing style. There is no "fluff" in this book. Even though I already know some of the details on business/home office set-up, it was helpful to read it in this format and in the context of interior decorating.
   
   There is so much I do NOT know about this industry, and that is where this book shines. The author does a stellar job of explaining the day-to-day nature of interior decorating, how to decide if this business is right for you, and the importance of writing a detailed business plan.
   
   The book also provides business form templates that you can copy and use. Finally, the Product Overview section outlines specific instructions on measuring and costing out your projects.
   
   I strongly recommend this book as a starting point and ongoing reference guide for anyone interested in starting a home decorating business from home.



3. Before I purchased this book I read Juan's review, but being the"Doubting Thomas" kind of person I am, I bought it anyway. I should have listened to Juan. His review is completely accurate.



4. An even better title would have been "What You Need to Start and Maintain a Successful Home-Based Decorative Surface & Window Treatment Retail Business". If it had that title, I would have given it 5 stars! Why do publishers encourage such deception?
   
   The dust jacket information about this book leads you to think it is all about Interior Design, and it is not. For example: Ms. Phillips states one of the key differences between the designation of "Interior Designer" and "Decorator" is becoming a member of ASID (American Society of Interior Designers) which requires Interior Design or Architecture related education and experience in related fields.
   
   I would assume most readers picking up this book have little of either if any. Then she decides to use the term "designer" throughout the book, instead of the more appropriate and realistic term of "decorator". Why? Is there a stigma about being a decorator? (By the way, one can also become a member of IIDA (International Interior Design Association) as well and legally be called an Interior Designer.)
   
   As for a home-based surface treatment and/or decorating business, this book is good. The listed topics are important and Ms. Phillips does a good job of covering the details in simple language. She has some good questions on whether running your own business is for you and the pros and cons of entrepreneurship. Obviously she has been there, and has sweated it out too! Also featured are smart advertising and marketing ideas.
   
   I felt the information on office set-up and computing was behind the times, but then again I am a gadget guy and tend to be up on these matters.
   
   In conclusion, a person, without any experience, wishing to start and effectively run an interior decorating business that focuses on surface treatment decoration products and services (such as flooring, carpets, textiles, fabrics, wall coverings, wallpaper, and window treatments) would do quite well with this book. I think it is a great business, and there is great potential for a lucrative business.
   
   However for someone wanting to do "Interior Design" (more than just surface treatments), they will be left dissatisfied. I advise you to look elsewhere.

5 comments about The New Cottage Home: A Tour of Unique American Dwellings.

1. I thought it was a little dated for being called "New cottage homes". I know some of the houses built and they were built over 13 years ago. So not so "new" if you know what I mean. If you buy it I am sure you will understand.



2. Some books you love and race right through them. This one I loved so much I dawdled over every page, scrutinized the photos, and extracted every bit of info I could from the written descriptions.
   I pictured myself curled up on the windowseat reading a book. I imagined walking through the woods to my camp cottage, or lounging in the adirondack chair on the porch with an ocean view. This book will fuel any dreams you have of owning a second home, a special retreat from the real world.
   The cottages are grouped into these categories:
   *Cottages by the water
   *Cottages of the forest and mountains
   *Cottages in the field
   *Cottages in town
   The final section covers designing the cottage home (26 pages).
   Each cottage gets 4 to 6 pages. The book describes the owners' vision and tells how the architect created their dream cottage. It might be 500 sq. ft. or 2,000 sq. ft. but each vacation home is a pleasure to view. Besides numerous color photos, there's a floor plan for each cottage. These combine with the descriptive text to give a pretty good picture of each home.
   Savor this book. Even if you never have a cottage, you can dream.



3. the used bookstore wouldn't even want this rubbish- about 5 pages of decent information. it's all coffee table fluff and I don't drink coffee- Boo



4. This book is great if you want gables and a structure with more character but more expensive. I am looking for simple structures. I do like the book a lot.



5. As an avid cottage fan, and living in one while designing a new one to build for myself which is even more zen and simple, I found this book to be one of the best books on cottages around. Although I also admit what was considered a cottage when my place was built someone hundred years ago and what is considered a cottage in 2006 is around five square feet more in size.
   
   Of course I am a purest and go by what my dictionary says a cottage is which is 1 : the dwelling of a farm laborer or small farmer 2 : a usually small frame one-family house. Small being reduced in size. So I was surprised that on page 112 they show a French Hunting Lodge from the Pacific Northwest. Not a cottage at all.
   
   What does make this good sized book useful for anyone looking for ideas on cottage styles is the vast array of examples given. From the coastline of Maine to the San Juan Island of Washington State, to rural Kansas to Massachusetts to favorite areas here in California.
   
   And wonderful examples of simple to elaborate. One of my favorites because of its really simple zen style is the Pumphouse on pages 52-59 on San Juan Island in Washington State that was made into a smooth lined, all in one cottage which I and other minimalists would love to own. Or the wonderful Salvage Yard cottage in Franklin County, Kansas on page 156-161 that would fit in just about anywhere where clean lines and environmental desires are important.
   
   There is even an off the grid cottage and some communities of nothing but cottages like those on Lopez Island in Washington State beginning on page 196, where the cottages are part of a land trust that was set up to allow people on moderate incomes to build small abodes with common greenbelt areas in and area where expensive homes were/are the norm. Heck, this made the book worth the price in itself.
   
   Each cottage is shown inside and out complete with basic blueprints of each cottage so one can see how the space sits and works. The photography and text meld well and makes this a book that is hard to put down.

1 comments about At Home With White (At Home With...).

1. I am a passionate lover of white and shades of white in interior spaces. This book is both elegant and accessible.

1 comments about Country Living 500 Quick & Easy Decorating Projects & Ideas.

1. I have a passion for design books that are practical and fun. This one fits the bill. The suggestions would fit any casual comfort filled home.
   The use of color is great and appeals to the relaxation of the eye.

5 comments about Space: Japanese Design Solutions.

1. This book is fine in almost everything but the floor plans that are missing. It's small and compact which goes with the theme but a floor plan would have been a great addition in simplifying the readability of it. Most of all it would be great if I could learn how to do them instead and of only admiring these houses.



2. This book... I liked it so much I even use it as a gift! Extremely happy!



3. it would make a marvelous coffee table book, except it's half the size of one. or maybe it makes a wonderful table book precisely because it is so easy to pick up and skim. regardless, don't let that deter you from getting this book, as it is remarkable in its showcasing of the creativity that small spaces foster. as you read both the words and pictures throughout the book, you will find yourself thinking "wow that makes so much sense!" and "i want that house!" over and over.
   a fantastic book, it will inspire you to either move to japan, or take the book to your architect and commission a house on the spot.



4. That's right, folks! Not a one! However, that hasn't put me off this little book.
   
   I've enjoyed this one for it's nifty little nooks and crannies and the way that others can realise good living in small spaces.
   
   This is a VERY Japanese style book. I would not necessarily agree on layouts of the homes but once again, I say unto you, I buy books for inspiration and I haven't been disappointed.



5. Just love the simplicity f spaces in japan, old and modern.

5 comments about Living in Bali (Taschen's Lifestyle).

1. Since it is legally impossible for foreigners to own real estate on the highly protected island of Bali, this book contains a list of law-breaking millionaires who cannot enjoy beauty unless they own a part of it...



2. Having visited Bali many times over a period of 35 years and being very familiar with life and housing there, it is important to mention that this book is not about living in Bali for the Balinese. The homes in this book are exceptional for Bali and for the most part would be special almost anywhere.
   
   The book covers some breathtakingly beautiful houses and the photography is excellent. Whether one is interested in Bali or not, architects, decorators, and those who appreciate creative design will thoroughly enjoy this collection of gorgeous photos of stunning architectural creativity. Those who do not know Bali will likely be blown away by its natural tropical beauty. For those who know and care about Bali, this work artfully ties all of the above together in a most satisfying volume.



3. Great photography and awesome scenarios. It really brings the feeling of being in Bali. And the decorations show the artistic side of the new interiors of the open living. It inspires my clients when they come inside my furniture store. Of the books I have from Bali, this is certainly the best!



4. Overflowing with inspiring photography, this is a beautiful book! We also love the text appearing in English, German and French as well - it adds to the international appeal of the content. It is an incredible value for the price - we expected to pay twice as much. We have recently visited one of these homes, and the photos actually do it justice!



5. LIVING IN BALI is more than just a pretty picture book, though the lush photography by Reto Guntli is superb. This is a romance with a place few have had the pleasure of experiencing - the tropical paradise still very much in place in Bali.
   
   Author Anita Lococo wisely leaves most of the journey to the level of serenity encountered by the way of life, the state of mind, the natural beauty of the landscape, and the plethora of flowers and exotic foliage to the images that flood the pages of this very beautiful book edited by the always sensitive Angelika Taschen. Here is a mood, a spirit and a place that indeed does exist and the book allows us to enter the secrets of the contemplative life that results from the communal life with nature that rules the homes of Bali.
   
   The writing is informative and gentle and the many full color photographs manage to transport the viewer in time and sensation to a Paradise Available. This is yet another in Taschen's fine collections of books intent on making us open our eyes and minds to the levels we all can achieve - with a little help from books like this. Grady Harp, March 06

2 comments about Log Cabin Classics.

1. Nice little hard back book about the construction of smaller log cabins. It has many pictures and plans with links for those considering building a more conservative log home. It's good for the first time builder or someone dreaming about possibly owning a log cabin.



2. We often romanticize about the small cabin in the woods, by the lake, or atop a mountain- the home that is in tune with nature. ~Robbin Obomsawin
   
   The first time I saw a log cabin it was love at first sight. One of my best gal friends from college is always dreaming of having her brother build her a log cabin. I'm dreaming of visiting her and sipping hot chocolate by a fireplace and catching up on her travels to Russia. The wish to live in a log cabin may be inspired by a romantic weekend or a trip to a friend's house in the woods.
   
   In "Log Cabin Classics" old-world cabins are inspired by nostalgic moments, a desire to be in harmony with nature and local materials.
   
   You will find information on Cabin Fever, Building Small Cabins, Second Homes, Planning Strategies, Risks and Problems, Budgeting and Construction Contracts, Reclaiming Wood and Building with Nature.
   
   The author, Robbin Obomsawin is the construction manager and general contractor for Beaver Creek Log Homes. She has an in-depth knowledge of conventional construction and lives in Westdale, New York.
   
   Robbin displays not only a intricate knowledge of log cabin construction, she is a deft writer who displays a true love of natural surroundings and nature escapes.
   
   If you are looking for decorating ideas, there are quite a few and full-color pictures display various settings. There are house plans complete with ideas for wraparound kitchens and bedroom lofts. I love the cozy bedrooms and rocking chairs placed near fireplaces.
   
   Bonus: You can also order blueprints from Beaver Creek Log Homes. There is also a list of resources to help you plan your building project.
   
   ~The Rebecca Review

5 comments about Inside the Bungalow: America's Arts and Crafts Interior.

1. Great source for anyone who is considering doing and architectural project, either interior or exterior, with an Arts and Crafts feeling.



2. This book contains big color photographs of interiors; reference guide at the end of the book detailing resources of Arts and Crafts literature and furnishings



3. This is a user friendly book to have close at hand. If you're like me I am always looking at ways to incorporate colors, designs and arts and crafts style into our 1922 Chalet Arts and Craft's home. I especially appreciate all the colorful pictures and the textiles shown. Paint, stenciling and wallcoverings being modest in cost and are realistic changes that are indeed affordable. Lots of ideas and examples to pull a room together. I refer to the book frequently and I am pleased I bought it.



4. For newly into the arts and crafts movement and restoring our bungalow, this book concentrates exactly where we needed it to -- the interior. From shots of wonderful restored homes to our favorite section (before and after), this book will become our favorite resource. Excellently focused!



5. As soon to be purchasers of an 'arts & crafts' home in the Hudson Valley (NY), my husband and I never heard of 'arts & crafts' style homes. This book has been such a wonderful inspiration for us. The book is filled with color photos, wonderful ideas, themes and history! We will borrow from what we've learned and put those concepts, colors etc to great use in our new home. What was especially dramatic was the before and after pix of rooms/homes. You won't be disappointed in this purchase.

3 comments about Bali Modern: The Art of Tropical Living.

1. Great photography and awesome scenarios. It really brings the feeling of being in Bali. And the decorations show the artistic side of the new interiors of the open living. It inspires my clients when they come inside my furniture store. Of the books I have from Bali, this is certainly the encyclopedia of interior design!



2. Many westerners have set up homes in Bali, which have long been a magnet for western culture-hound. Here,writer and photographer showcase what the island's most inspiring examples of contemporary residences, shops, restaurants and of course the beautiful resorts that Bali is renowned. The work is well researched, featuring architectural and interior detailing of cross cultural legacy and an amalgamation of both modern and traditional. The text includes little stories of origins and legends. And as always, Lucca Invernizzi Tettoni's superb photography, mostly outdoor shots of the creme de la creme of Bali's private and resort landscaped gardens. This work captured all parts of the Balinese tropical living experience, proving why Bali is often remembered as the place to rejuvenate the soul.



3. This is just what the doctor ordered for enthusiasts of tropical decor and culture. By focusing on the use of modern (alibet, longer lasting) building materials with techniques designed to provide a tropical ambiance is neat. It's not something that I have found elsewhere. It would also be nice to provide some interior decorating schemes to be translated into the American shopping market using or importing accessories from the Bali region or using alternative sources for the "tropical" look from other areas, i. e., the British West Indies, the Caribbean, major U.S. catalogues, etc.

   Thanks for the opportunity to comment.