The Art of Interior Design
With two books already to their credit, Julie Goebel and daughter Caitlin Flemming decided that it was time to write a third—and the result is what could easily become an indispensable resource for beginners, as well as more seasoned individuals, with an interest in perfecting—and understanding more fully—the art of interior design. Called in the introduction “a design bible that divulges the wisdom that is usually vouchsafed only to the professional designers but can be used by anyone who wants to improve the look of where they live,” The Essentials, this latest foray into sharing their wealth of knowledge with readers, allows Goebel and Flemming to cast a wide net and gather up a bounty of perspectives from various specialists in a range of pertinent areas of interest: accessories, art, color, flooring, furniture, handcrafted items, hardware, lighting, outdoor spaces, textiles, and window treatments. Featuring outstanding color photography by Stephanie Russo, the 303-page compendium is divided into three sections: “Training Your Eye,” “Working Elements,” and “Nine Homes for Inspiration.” In the last chapter, the homes selected to inspire are presented alongside their owners, who “have mastered the art of home design.” While understanding the many complexities of the creative process, Goebel and Flemming offer a multitude of ideas that will appeal to anyone with a desire to explore and experiment with the world of interior design. —Roger Harris