CLASSIC AMERICAN DECORATING

A source of both inspiration and practical ideas, Colonial Homes Classic American Decorating profiles six homes and explores indepth the specific elements that contribute to the overall look:color and pattern, fabric, furniture, and finishing touches. Readers are given the "big picture" -- an overview of the basic tenets of good design at work -- and then shown how to achieve it. Rather than focusing on a narrow definition of "colonial," Colonial Homes Classic American Decorating features a classic Virginia farmstead, an 1818 Federal period house, a New York City apartment, and a Washington, D.C. townhouse. The homes are located in various regions of the country, and the story behind each captures the owners' passions. A chapter on color and pattern instructs readers on the use of specific elements to enliven a room's dicor -- stenciling, floor painting, faux finishes, and wallpaper. The fabrics chapter covers slipcovers, window treatments, bed coverings, and rugs. The home furnishings chapter illustrates how homeowners have incorporated antiques and reproductions. Finally, a chapter on collectibles and finishing touches discusses how everything from artwork to candlesticks contributes to a classic American decor. For a fresh look at home decorating -- and a new perspective on what constitutes classic Colonial Homes Classic American Decorating is thebook of choice!