[.uk] Victoria Designers in Residence: The Personal Style of ... (ISBN 1588164977)

Victoria Magazine's book on various Designer's Homes:
When "Victoria Magazine" first came out in the very early 1990's (or late 1980s) , it was the first of it's kind. I just loved it, and subscribed to it until it stopped being marketed. (By the way, this was before magazines such as ROMANTIC HOMES became popular in the late 1990's). If you are familiar with the typical format of VICTORIA MAGAZINE, then you can envision what this book is like. The photos are of the highest quality,just like in the magazine. The format is the same as the magazine, in that there are many WONDERFUL photos, but note that this is NOT a decorating "how-to" book. I would categorize this book as a lovely coffee table book. A feast for the eyes, especially if you love romantic homes. However, if you are drawn to the more typical "modern" homes, or the bright colors of the current retro homes, then this book is not for you. As I said, this book is for those that like "romantic style" homes of the 1990's & early 2000's, (with the more muted colors).

Beautiful Book with Lovely Photos:
This is another lovely book by Victoria. It's filled with page after page of beautiful photographs in a range of styles including shabby-chic, vintage flea market, traditional, Victorian, country, European and my favorite, decorating with whites & creams. This is not a how-to book, but a wonderful one to enjoy with a cup of tea, curled up on your favorite chair. You will not find contemporary design in this book. Although I am not partial to bright colors, every designer showcased in this book has a lovely home with warmth and inviting comfort. I would have given this book a 5 star rating if all of the designs were in a soft dreamy color palette. For those of you who enjoy the same, there are 5 designers and plenty of pages filled with lovely photographs, including the queen of shabby chic, Rachel Ashwell.