5 of the Best Interior Design Books for September 2014

Many of the 10 outstanding houses that are presented in this beautiful book are not open to the public and remain in the hands of descendants of the original owners. James Peill who is also the curator of Goodwood – one the featured houses – tells the turbulent stories of these houses and the dynasties that continue to live in them. The chosen houses range widely from fortified medieval manor houses to ducal palaces. James Fennell brings the story to life with his evocative photographs not only of the architecture and sumptuous interiors and magnificent gardens, but also of the detail of family lives, the collections, trophies and memorabilia.

The journalist and stylist Michele Lalande collaborates with photographer Gilles Trillard once again to bring 24 new homes in the Pompadour Decor style, a French trend that has now spread worldwide. Once again the mise en scene is truly eclectic as pieces of furniture are permitted to show their age: The upholstery is often stripped of its luxurious outer garments of silk damasks to reveal the jute padding with its visible stitching; gone also is the heavy gilt of the woodwork. We have certainly noticed this trend in all the major antiques fairs in London as dealers have responded to its popularity. This timeless style will run and run…

There is a real mix of homes here owned variously by artists, designers, antiques dealers, furniture makers, florists, writers and gallery owners – but all are possessed of a highly individualistic and confident style. Refreshingly the emphasis is not on the grand or palatial but on the purely creative so there is plenty to inspire you with whatever your budget.