5 comments about Colin Cowie Chic: The Guide to Life As It Should Be.

1. I really liked this book. Of course when you read many of the suggestions you think, "well, DUH...," but Cowie lays out a plan to make the chic things in life manageable. A "busy lifestyle" and "no time" are no longer excuses for enjoying the small things in life.
   
   I also enjoyed his ideas for hostess gifts, thank you note writing, welcoming guests, and hosting small gatherings at your home. And thanks to Colin Cowie, my husband and I now bring out our good china to eat meals -- why wait for only holidays to eat off fine china?
   
   Plus, this book looks great on my coffee table. Cheers!



2. This book was a quick read that I enjoyed. Colin Cowie does have exacting standards what with all the talk of ironed sheets and shunning disposable plates and napkins, but I think that's the more aspirational part of the book moreso than practical advice. Cowie is full of good tips on entertaining and hosting overnight guests in your home, and this book includes gorgeous photos. And as another reviewer noted, the book looks great on the coffee table.



3. I expected so much more from this stylish purveyor of chic. Boring rehash, mostly using dull photos of process and procedures we have all learned and been doing for years. I expected much, much more for the hefty price tag. This really fell flat. Not even big enough to be recycled as a coffee table book. Guess I'll have to regift!
   
   Nicole Katz
   Beverly Hills, Ca



4. I thought this book was a great primer on living a stylish life-- all around. Very well thought out and beautifully executed. Good stuff!



5. As a fellow perfectionist, I enjoyed this book greatly. It's not a heavy read, it's light with pictorial images to support it. Just reading it and looking at the images made me want to immediately rectify my own living and working space. Some of his ideas are common sense, some just great ideas, and others just purely inspirational. I found myself nodding at some ideas as I am already doing it, giggling at others thinking it was so over the top - but I loved it!
   
   As Colin Cowie would say, "give a gift to the host to say thank you" and perhaps this book would make a nice gift.

5 comments about Mary Emmerling's Beach Cottages: At Home by the Sea.

1. As much as I love Mary and her work, the title 'beach cottages' is misleading. The pictures of the homes did not lead me to believe there was a beach nearby and most I would not consider cottages at all. My favorite was of a shingled shack with no heat and laid back beach charm. This one falls short and is disappointing. Please don't show me pictures of pools in a beach book! Mary's charm is missing from this one.



2. as the previous reviews. I found the book to be full of wonderful pictures and very evocative of a wonderful stay by the seashore. The houses were not the usual beach cliches.... they were very elegant and had a lot of personality and individuality. I would recommend. A concise, nice little volume.



3. I have been waiting for this book as I am one of Mary's devoted fans. After reading the reviews from other customers, I was feeling let down before I even saw the book. I have to say that I was happily surprised and thought it was BETTER than her previous books. I love the size of the book - it has a cozy feeling - and the photographs are perfect. I, for one, enjoy seeing pictures of people's swimming pools (even if they are part of a beach house). I loved her choice of homes and don't really care if some are redundant (Rachel Ashwell) because a lot of these designers/homeowners move all the time and there is always something fresh to see. Count me in as a continuing huge fan of her taste and joie de vivre. So many books today (in the dying era of coffee-table tomes) are sterile and boring. You can tell she cares about her subjects - both the homes and the people who inhabit them. Go Mary!



4. I'm a longtime fan of Mary Emmerling's work, and was thrilled to find BEACH COTTAGES. I've dog-eared favorite pages, and find myself returning to them over and over again for inspiration. I loved the diversity of design styles, and even when the homes shown are waaaay out of my own budget, I enjoyed seeing how the other half lives. This is a book for dreamers as well as doers.Of course, it doesn't hurt that she recommended one of my books, SAVANNAH BREEZE, in her list of great beach reads. I'll be buying more copies of BEACH COTTAGES for my beach dreamer buddies.
   Mary Kay Andrews



5. As a longtime Mary Emmerling fan I can hardly wait for each book to come out; as a beach fan I was not disappointed; a lovely book. I enjoyed seeing her old beach cottages and how they have evolved. I think she missed some great old cottages in my northwest florida area; especially at Grayton Beach; but otherwise this is a very nice book representative of her great taste. I'm looking forward to her work with House Beautiful.

5 comments about An Affair with a House.

1. This is an interesting book in a lot of ways. On the one hand the architecture and grounds of BW's Connecticut digs are quite beautiful (with the exception of the atrocious pool house that's a Greek temple made outta logs . . . .). On the other hand, the stuff that's crammed into her rooms makes for suffocating interiors. Too many dog pillows (yea, we know she loves her mutts, but please!). The looks presented herein are not edited, not clean - it's rather grandmotherly. The exception to this is the barn that from what I understand having read the book, was really more or less her husband's take on the situation and it's quite wonderful. Perhaps it's not fair to compare a low ceilinged Connecticut Federal house to a loft-like barn space but seeing as how the two are put in the same book, I guess it's open season. But this is a much better book than her latest called Point of View or as I call it, Pointless View.



2. Many design books only use words to describe the pictures. While reading these types of books, I find myself only paying attention to the pictures. However, "An Affair with a House" captures Williams's personal story while still vividly displaying her passion for design. If only we could all feel the connection for our houses as she has for her's.



3. Thirty years ago Bunny Williams fell in love with a run down 18th century farmhouse that was being used as a rental by college students. (That should indicate to you just how run down it had become.) She has done so much to restore the house and grounds to their glory days. The landscaping projects alone have taken decades to reach their potential. As Bunny's father pointed out, that had she not been a young woman when she bought the house, the project would have outlived her. Instead, she had the time and talent to bring this house into her vision of what a gracious old home should be.
   
   A renown decorator of others' homes, when Bunny was working on her own dream house, no corners were cut and no expense spared. This book describes how she envisioned the hedges, the entrance foyer, the living room, the kitchen, the patio - and then what she did to bring that vision to reality. There is an amazing sequence as she describes what she felt would be the ideal color of the entrance hall - a delicate peach that she had once seen in the table linen of a restaurant in Tuscany - and what she did to reproduce that color.
   
   The attention to detail that Bunny paid to every aspect of her home over thirty years has resulted in a place that is a true reflection of the owner's passions. The spaces devoted to her beloved dogs; the collections she has gathered through the years; the way she found the perfect place to work in an old wing chair that belonged to her late father.
   
   Bunny also loves to entertain. She shows us her dining areas; how she settled on certain tables; her collections of tableware and linens; and the storage areas. But she doesn't stop there - she shares her favorite methods of flower arranging, and gives us some lovely recipes. It's just another nice touch in this jewel of a book.
   
   "An Affair with a House" isn't a decorating book, per se. It's one woman's story about how she reclaimed a neglected house and brought it back to life. This a beautiful book to spend an afternoon looking through and, if you like the traditional styles, you can find plenty of inspiration from Bunny Williams' own story.
   
   Highly recommended!!!



4. I've read reviews of this book that told how people were appalled at the materialistic aspects of this book. We live fairly simply, but like to look at a home put together beautifully, because it is filled with belongings that they personally chose and collected, and more importantly--hobbies and interests that they treasure . I was impressed that they loved their home.
   
   These people enjoy "living". They garden, travel, raise chickens, cook, entertain, and love their dogs. They are interesting because they pursue learning about life. I guess I've always thought that wealthy living was portrayed in a boring way. You can enjoy your home and really live life and learning in whatever size home you have.



5. I have always loved older homes. Every room in this book tells a story. This book is a great tool in preparing you for lifes journey in restoring an older house. When you decide to make you your house a home, and your dreams a reality. The author reminders the readers that it takes time to accomplish your goals. The pictures are just amazing. I will treasure this book for years to come.

3 comments about Decorating Master Class.

1. The concept of a "Master Class" is a course taught by a top, often world-renowned, professional in a field, to graduate-level students of the highest caliber. When you really understand what a master class is, you get a better sense of the proper audience for this wonderful book showcasing the work of Cullman & Kravis. BUT be prepared -- while the authors may have intended this as a book for the layman, it's for a more precise niche, either the very knowledgeable amateur, or the young professional hoping to work in ultra-high-end interior design.
   
   I would recommend it highly to someone just starting out in the design world, or someone who wants a better understanding of the options available to those with the checkbook to get anything they want. If, for example, you're planning a major interior design project and intend to work with a designer, this is a great primer on the process and details. It'll likely make you a far more informed client for the designer you'll ultimately choose.
   
   It is emphatically not, however, for the DIY reader. The authors assume that you'll be working with professionals, and present options accordingly. The guidelines in such areas as upholstery & trim, lighting, and flooring are invaluable, but such detail is for those who really want it. Your reaction may be, "Okay, that's more than I wanted to know." They also assume such luxuries as custom cabinetry, custom-colored rugs and upholstery, custom embroidery -- basically, an entirely custom environment. This is, after all, what Cullman & Kravis does so beautifully, but it may not be of help to a reader looking for guidance in the real world.
   
   Such books by top designers are the "in" thing lately -- note Jeffrey Bilhuber's Design Basics: Expert Solutions for Designing the House of Your Dreams, Mariette Himes Gomez's Rooms: Creating Luxurious, Livable Spaces, Rose Tarlow's The Private House, Bunny Williams' Point of View: Three Decades of Decorating Elegant and Comfortable Houses, Michael S. Smith: Elements of Style, etc. They cover the length and breadth of interior design today, and they vary widely in their approach. "Decorating Master Class" is for those who want only the finest, and the authors assume their readers have the wherewithal to achieve it.



2. Decorating Master Class should be required reading in all interior design firms. As a matter of fact, It is is soon to be a benchmark in the annals of decorating history. The authors have not only captured the essence of good taste and style, but they present their craft in a manner that is easy to comprehend and understand. I love this book!!!!



3. This book is especially helpful for those who do not wish to employ an interior decorator. It is filled with facts and information that is part of the basic knowledge of every designer. Guaranteed to be of great assistance.

4 comments about Apartment Therapy Presents: Real Homes, Real People, Hundreds of Design Solutions.

1. Apartment Therapy Presents: Real Homes, Real People, Hundreds of Design Solutions by Maxwell Gillingham-Ryan is eye candy for those of us interested in home decorating.
   
   In the introduction, Gillingham-Ryan writes: "More than just a physical shelter, the home is both a second skin that protects us from the world outside and an emotional center that nourishes us and supports our innermost dreams. He also writes: "A healthy home will nurture and support you."
   
   I absolutely agree with both statements.
   
   The author believes that: "It's your home--design it for you!"
   
   With that in mind, each apartment has it's own distinct personality and we get to read about the occupants of each apartment.
   
   While I really enjoyed the book, it does lack one thing, which is why I gave the book 4, not 5, stars. It lacks general tips on how to decorate. I recommend Harmonious Environment: Beautify, Detoxify and Energize Your Life, Your Home and Your Planet as a companion to this book, because it provides hundreds of tips on how to decorate, clear clutter, make your home green, and more.
   
   That said, Apartment Therapy is very inspirational and real. The apartments feel doable and lived in--not like unattainable glossies in the home decorating magazines.
   
   A floor plan and basic information, like square footage, is provided for each apartment which is smart, as photos alone can't convey the layout of a home.
   
   Next, there is a description which includes information on the occupants, their style and more. I enjoyed reading about the people and it made the decorating choices make sense.
   
   Great photographs.
   
   A survey was included for each section and included the following: style, inspiration, favorite element, biggest challenge, biggest embarrassment, biggest challenge, proudest DIY, biggest indulgence, best advice, fream sources. FUN to read.
   
   Each apartment also included resources which is always great if you see something you want.
   
   Real people real stuff.
   
   Next,



2. This book gives a lot of inspiration to people whose tastes run from modern to eclectic, who don't live in huge homes or have unlimitied financial resources. Shows what you can do with resale shops, eBay, and using what you have to make your home reflect your style and be a really comfortable place to live.



3. A couple of weeks ago, I ordered a box full of decorating books. And out of that box, this was by far my favorite! Besides the variety of styles, it was SO NICE to see REAL HOMES for a change. I am SO TIRED of seeing overly dressed homes that I personally would be afraid to sit down in, or that would take an army of hired help to keep clean. I read this book first, skimmed through the other five (Almost all written by well-known TV personality-type decorators)and went right back to this one. The others...are still sitting in the box.
   
   That said, if you are looking for a step-by-step "how-to" guide, this is likely not your book. But I found the pictures and the survey answers by the actual owners very inspiring. It gives you a lot of insight to the thought process behind the design. And the photos are FRESH...not rehashed, like a lot of the books that come out. (Yawn!) So from that perspective alone, it's worth the money.
   
   My favorites-
   
   "turquoise's directional shift" (Turquoise is her name, btw.) I LOVED her design, and her inspiration..."boutique hotels." They inspire me, too!! :) And she 'customized' an Ikea piece...something I have done as well! ;) Her apartment...is absolutely beautiful. Perhaps a few boutique hotels could actually get a little more inspired by Turquoise!
   
   "curtis's paint by numbers" Talk about a great idea!! This guy did a life-sized Paris street scene using a paint-by-numbers kit!! (Directions as to how he did it, included.) I have a huge upstairs landing that has been sitting in limbo, as I had contemplated some type of wall-art...and THIS IS EXACTLY what I am going to do!! Thanks, Curtis, for the SMASHING idea!! How cool of you to think of it!!
   
   "jane and darko's cozy thicket' I loved this, because it reminded me of a very modern cabin. (Hey, I'm from Minnesota!) After looking at the pictures, I was sure this apartment was somewhere in the Midwest...only to find out, it's right in Manhattan. Now that's what I call marching to your own drummer!!
   
   ALL of the apartments were fun to look at, fun to read about, and very, very personal. Something you don't see in most decorating books out there. Not sure how those TV people can keep hawking the same darned rooms over and over, again. IMHO - This book certainly puts them to shame.
   
   Great job, Maxwell!!



4. This book is as good as I expected it would be; tons of ideas and ingenious solutions to space problems. Very talented people who achieve an individual look usually without mounds of money.

5 comments about Axel Vervoordt: Timeless Interiors.

1. Simply fabulous. You can hear a pin drop in these hushed interiors. Beautifully presented and photographed. Rush to buy now, dahling!
   Stylemaven



2. If you are a fan of Mr Verfoordt's restrained timeless chic, this book is for you. Full of beautiful photographs of the timeless interiors the book was named after, this is a lovely edition that will provide endless inspiration.



3. I have heard American decorating described as "Cheerful Comfort" which doesn't mean much in the overall scheme of things.
   If the concepts learned from Axel Vervordt were incorporated into American decor we would be the envy of the world. Mr. Vervordt's talent lies in combining the elements of form, time, and substance and lets them breath together to create a pallete of breathless beauty. He is humble in his choices and shares it all with the reader in an effortless way which is the mark of great talent. The photo layouts are exquisite and the text is like a novel. So worthy of a great talent.



4. This is classic beauty. Quiet, vast interiors filled, not with too much gilt and chintz, but a few pieces of wonderful antiques. The best thing about this book is that the rooms never looked decorated. Everything looks as though it grew in place.
   
   Personally, I fell in love with the ocean view and eternity pool on page 79. Amazingly, even the eternity pool doesn't seem too brash and new.
   
   Wonderful designs.



5. Vervoordt's peaceful environments invade space with mood. The resulting grandeur of such tranquil beauty and gentle sophistication is most admirable and thoroughly revealed in this beautifully accessorized volume. Leafing through this book will calm your design sensitivities, as period inpressions drift from page to page. The dramatic and dimly lit photos featured here capture the essence of time. The historical significance of such a talented artist can not be denied, as Vervoordt's careful selection and discerning eye for arranging will be learned from for years to come. There is an art to assemblage, and this designer definitely defines it!
   
   As a professional in the interior decorating field, I chose this book along with another,Your Home A Living Canvas: Create Stunning Faux Finishes & Murals with Paint, by Curtis Heuser, and was pleasantly surprised by each. As I work mainly with customers who wish to develop time worn feeling and comfortable living spaces, both of these books proved wonderful additions for helping with that thought process. "YOUR HOME..." follows the creative rebirth of the author's/decorative artist's historic 1890's home, with hundreds of beautiful full color before/after and during renovation illustrations, accompanied with full spread finished room concepts. I would love to see the two of these talents in collaboration - as both artist have a keen sense of using color, texture and light to bring a space to life. Though these books are so different in energy level (Heuser uses dramatic color and unique murals and specialty paint finishes to stage the scene), both offer immense inspiration for helping one to envision and recreate "timeless interiors"!

5 comments about Candice Olson on Design.

1. The book "Candice Olson on Design" is really good, although it's too bad that there isn't a chapter on lighting. Candice's application of lighting on her TV show, Divine Design, is so "wow". Candice's remodels of existing fire places leaves me waiting breathlessly for her design sketches to be transformed to trophy pieces by her crew of expert building technicians. Her book is a definite must for those of us that need the confidence shared with us by authors that are practitioners of what we want-a beautiful home.
   Candice Olson is the Queen of TV Interior Designers!



2. Candice Olson on Design containg many beautiful pictures of her work. I can say to all, but many of the rooms are from the shows from HGTV. However, I was disapppointed by the lack of explaination of some of the design ideas. My purpose of this purchase of this book was to give rationale to some of her design ideas and how I could implement them into my home. This book was very non-general and mainly for someone whom may want a picture book only. An even so, The photos never keyed into her usage of lighting. Which she always incorporates for any of her rooms. Your better off watch the show or DIY.



3. The book was part of the Candice Olson birthday package I picked up for the missus - see my review elsewhere of the Candice Olson lamp - and we both enjoyed reading it. The bedroom where Candice uses dark wood flooring for the headboard wall is my personal favorite, and I might just have to rip off that idea for my basement project.
   
   And not to give too much away, the foreword on her personal history will make your belly ache from laughter. I sure as hell wouldn't put my high school pictures in any of MY books!
   
   The book's only fault is that it's too short, but for those used to reading design books, you'll probably find the writing much livier, as if they didn't force the designer or architect to pull double-duty by writing the text. It also puts Candice's work front and center, without the sometimes distracting (but necessary) banter of the TV show.
   
   That said, the book is not a "series synopsis" and will not substitute for watching the show. It will make a great coffee table read or a gift for friends who might enjoy her show.



4. I bought the book cause I just love Candice's work and design. I admire her projects.
   But the book is definetly dissapointment. My first impresoion was that the paper that was used to print the book - a cheap peace that destroyed the quality of the photos in it. Also, the text that goes with every design project do not say anything interesting or helpful.



5. As an Interior Design student, I found this book was helpful with learning how to render floor plans and elevations. The design projects were done well, and were realistic types of projects that I might work on in the future, so it was fun trying to copy her sketches, to learn how she made them so beautiful, and figure out how to do it myself.
   
   The text is well-written in conversational syle, without being patronizing and she has a good sense of humor, so it was a welcome break from standard text books, and I felt like I actually learned from it too.
   
   I would suggest this book to people who are interested in design on a hobby level, as well as students and designers.

5 comments about Easy Green Living: The Ultimate Guide to Simple, Eco-Friendly Choices for You and Your Home.

1. This book is so down to earth and totally inspiring. It makes taking care of ourselves and our plannet a fun thing to do.



2. "Easy Green Living" is an absolutely wonderful book that shows you how to live green. I have learned so much from this book and have recommended it to family and friends. Everyone should use this as a guide. It's packed with very important information. Renee is very knowledgeable and tells it like it is.



3. Greening your life seems to be a process. It's not something that you can do in one day. It's taken me a few years to slowly get rid of the things that weren't good for me, especially cleansers, beauty products, and food. Not only will using green products help you and your body, but they can help the earth as well!
   This woman really did her homework. She not only stated where she received the abundance of information she wrote about, but she gave tons of resources as well!!
   Even if you don't want to give up your everyday products, like: fabric softener, oven cleaner, and makeup, you don't have to!! There are many more natural and healthy substitutes you can use, by buying better products, or making them yourself!!
   Greening your life is not as hard as you would think!
   Recommended!



4. I have a few green living books, and this one is by far the best (and makes some other popular green guides look like trendy, puff pieces).
   
   It's informative, well set out and very practical. Everything you need to know to go green is in this book!
   
   An excellent investment.



5. This is the most comprehensive, easy to use, guide for eco-friendly living that I have seen in years. I strongly recommend that you consider purchasing this book and using it as a handy reference for everything from personal care products to paint to household items. I have purchased several of these from Amazon after reading it cover to cover from the local library and I will be giving them as Christmas gifts this year. The book will quite simply change your life for the better.

5 comments about Elle Decor So Chic: Glamorous Lives, Stylish Spaces (Elle Decor).

1. When I saw the front cover of this book, esp. on Vogue magazine, it was very appealing. They are smart that they picked the best looking interior to feature on their cover. Elle Decor so chic, true, but not for long. You may get a little inspiration and maybe a little wow factor when you first flip through couple of pages, but not for long you will find it that the interiors soon become very similar. It is all the same setup, layout, furniture choices (lots of Chinoiserie and Hollywood Regency), and color schemes. I actually find it much more inspiring to read House and Garden UK version. I've seen too many of these kind of stuff and I am expecting something a little more bold and daring.



2. I bought this book for a friend who's an interior designer and ended up keeping it myself but of course, ordered another one for her. Why keep it? The book was different to what I expected. This exquisite book covers so many styles, ideas, lifestyles, etc etc it excited me enough to start redecorating my home. I've 'loaned' a couple of ideas from the book, mixed and matched others and am having the best time. 5 stars is well deserved for this absolutely necessary for every home book with it's great ideas. Not forgetting of course the fabulous photography.



3. Looking for chic rooms that are inspiring? Ms. Russell does it again. Edited from the pages of her magazine,she puts together a great resource book and/or coffee table topper to give you a brousing escape from our own dreary interiors.



4. This book is beautiful, certainly for the beginning decorator or if you just want to know how the "Beautiful People" live, this is for you! Exquisite pictures, great profiles, as well as great tips! Oh, and let's not forget the fabulous price!



5. This book features a lot of famous designers' homes that do a great job in describing their personalities and who they are. And the selection of it is all unique in its way, unlike those that are predictable, commercial looking and seem-to-see-it-before-ish. I did go through many books at a bookstore before I decided to pick this one. It just stands out!

5 comments about Stylish Sheds and Elegant Hideaways: Big Ideas for Small Backyard Destinations.

1. Full Disclosure Statement: My partner (who has also left a review) and I are featured in the book. That said, I have to say that I'm very impressed with what Debra Prinzing and Bill Wright have produced. The wide variety of styles - from sleek to whimsical to elegant - provides eye candy for every taste. Moreover, the sheds are not unattainable "follies" of the wealthy. They are realistically attainable garden structures that have been re-imagined in ways that truly enhance the quality of life. The book's "Resources" section, brings the idea of having a shed that much closer to reality. And by including information about the owners and how they use their sheds, you begin to understand how a shed can serve a purpose unlike any other room in your home. It can be an art studio, a retreat, an entertaining destination an extension of the garden, or anything else you can dream up. I have to admit that after first reading the chapter on our shed, I spent the next several evenings reading the rest of the book in detail. I found myself lusting after the Greenwich Village shed, and loving the architecture of the Zen-style teahouse in Texas. This is much more than a coffeetable book. It is a book of ideas, inspirations, resources and engaging personal stories. I'm very proud to be a part of it.



2. I'm one of the lucky shed owners in this book Stylish Sheds and
   Elegant Hideaways. And I'm a lover of modern design. When looking through books and magazines I'm always flipping quickly trying to find the "good stuff". Debra Prinzing found the good stuff for her latest book.
   
   This book has several contemporary designs, but I found the other sheds just as beautiful and interesting. I guess that's the style and elegance. Perfect title for the book.
   
   William Wright's photos are gorgeous. He captures the sheds in their surroundings which makes this book a good tool for designing your own backyard oasis.
   
   I want to use many of the great ideas I got from this book. In the chapter Poetic License the Italian tile is installed upside down and the Nordic pavilion in San Francisco has a grass roof. The glass block ceiling in the Manhattan shed makes a great sky light.
   Plenty of planting arrangement ideas in every chapter. I go on garden tours to get ideas. With this book I can visit 28 gardens and their sheds from my easy chair.
   
   I don't think I'm biased because I'm in this book. Just Lucky.



3. Debra Prinzing hit a home run with this book! How did she manage to locate so many creative garden houses and sheds, and each so unique? (Yes, she explains all that). There must be something about having your own special structure that fulfills some primal need in us. Those amazing structures she has included in the book are so personal you feel you have been given some insight into the character of the owners. As for me, I found myself dreaming about building my own garden house. It is easy for me to visualize it as an art studio, but also a place conducive to writing, as well as a wonderful place to escape to and curl up on a comfortable couch with a good book and a glass of wine ... while feeling attached to the outdoors as a gentle rain is trickling down the window panes. Debra, thanks for all the great ideas!



4. Debra Prinzing describes "salvaged" spaces as individual as their owners, detailing how such private places inspire the writers, artists, architects, gardeners and other creative people who are as interesting as their imaginative structures and favorite collectibles. From imported antiques that furnish the elegant outdoor dining room at the Babcock-Nahra abode to the rustic charm of the Boltons' Texas barn and the Suttons' graceful Japanese teahouse, these hideaways will make readers yearn for their own cozy nooks.



5. Debra Prinzing's newest book is a wonderful collaboration with William Wright, as photographer. Together, they documented fantastic outbuildings across the United States. These artist's retreats, decorator paradises, and architectural jewelry for the main house can sometimes scarcely be called sheds, but Ms. Prinzing makes all of us feel like friends who have dropped over for a glass of iced tea on a sunny afternoon.
   
   I knew I was in for quality enjoyment when I opened the book, and the first line paraphrased Virginia Woolf's "room of one's own." Hasn't every writer or artist longed for such a place? I know I have, and now I have several templates from which to choose.