Design Blog (Page 305)

Creativity in Design: Exploring the Decorative and Applied Arts

Join me at Encyclopedia Design, where we delve into the rich tapestry of the decorative and applied arts. Each post spans over 250 years of innovation and unveils the history, craftsmanship, and aesthetic principles that shape our everyday environments. Explore fascinating stories about furniture, textiles, ceramics, and more. Discover how design not only decorates but also defines our world. Ready to uncover the beauty of design?

Perfect Imperfect featured image

Perfect Imperfect is based on the Japanese philosophy of wabi-sabi, which promotes the beauty inherent in imperfection, impermanence, and authenticity. Importantly, this is accomplished without losing sight of the advantages of living in the twenty-first century. Read More →

Absolutely Beautiful Things Decorating inspiration for a bright and colourful life. Featured Image

In Absolutely Beautiful Things, successful designer Anna Spiro shows you how to create an interior that’s just right for you. To her, it’s all about the mix, not the match, and, with her help, you’ll find beauty in unexpected places. She’ll give you the confidence to put together a layered and very individual home using elements you love, and make you see your old belongings in a new light.Read More →

Kimono, Vanishing Tradition

Kimono, Vanishing Tradition: Japanese Textiles of the 20th Century. The lovely design of this revised 2nd edition also renders it a “coffee table worthy” purchase or gift. The subject is particularly timely now—since although people have been talking about the Japanese “vanishing” kimono tradition” for years, the most wondrous of the vintage garments from 1970s and prior are now truly an endangered species for kimono aficionadosRead More →

A Field Guide to American Houses

Now in paperback: the fully expanded, updated, and freshly designed second edition of the most comprehensive and widely acclaimed guide to domestic architecture: in print since its original publication in 1984, and acknowledged everywhere as the unmatched, essential guide to American houses.Read More →

French Country Cottage book cover

A layered mix of tableware and flower arrangements set the stage for inspired entertaining.

Entertaining starts with setting a fabulous table. In Courtney Allison’s signature French Country Cottage style, she showcases a myriad of romantic table settings for every occasion.Read More →