Pocket Decorator

Rating:
Summary: Great Design Tool!!
Review: I already have a few books that show different ideas, glossy photos of dream houses. But I needed a tool to help me put together MY dream house-- and this is it. It helped me locate the exact finish for the floor, and find the title for the chairs that I saw in one of the other books. Its to help you make your own house exactly how you want it.

Rating:
Summary: Putting a definition to the image
Review: My husband recently gave me this book for my birthday because he has seen me ripping out pages from design magazines of things I would love to have when we buy a house. I have a folder of these ripped out pages from design magazines highlighting rooms and furniture that I love. Coming from a world of finance and not decorating, I never knew what a certain chair or table was called, I just liked it. With this book I can identify the chair with the correct name so that when I research and buy the items I won't look like an idiot bringing my ripped out pages and asking, "do you have something like this?". I will be an educated consumer with some knowledge. The book is easy to carry with me on the train to work while I build my dreams for my new home.

Rating:
Summary: It is exactly what the title says it is!
Review: This is a book of decorating terminology for those who are interested in breaking down the sometimes daunting decorating verbiage. The uses of this book are varying and vast. For example, the book is particularly useful if you are into buying antiques and want to verify furniture styles and periods fast and easy. You just take the book with you on your weekend antique escapades. It is also really helpful if you are dabbling in decorating for yourself or looking to restore an old home. If you are new to decorating, this books will help you begin to see the range of furniture styles, fabric types, flooring options, hardware, etc... that are on the market. If you are already an established designer this book is great to work with your clients to help them understand simple things like the difference between a bergere and a fauteuil or the vast array of lighting options. Use the book the way you need to and want to. I bought the book for my sister-in-law who just bought a house and wants to replace the old fixtures, add new lighting, and collect some antiques. She loves the book because it gives her a guide to work with when making decisions and researching her needs and personal style preferences. Decorating is a fun pursuit but can be overwhelming with options and terminology. This book helps to break down the terminology and guide you towards your personal style. Use it the way you need and want to! Be creative!