Trade Secrets from Use What You Have Decorating

Rating:
Summary: REALLY USEFUL INFORMATION
Review: ...This book is a no-frills, practical, quick read that is already providing me with invaluable information. It has lots of easy decorating tips that I have started to implement already.

Rating:
Summary: Disappointing
Review: After reading Lauri Ward's first book, "Use What You Have Decorating" I was more than anxious to know the inside secrets to her style of decorating. What I found was a very "by the book" and old fashioned way of decorating. On several occasions she stresses the needs for matching woods and metals to others in the room. "Don't mix light woods with dark woods, don't mix brass with pewter. Keep ceilings white, etc." I think that's what separates my home from a showcase home. The contrasts allow for my personality to come through. I much prefer Christy Ferer's Breaking the Rules. Hang onto your money, there are lots more decorating books with fewer rules that make decorating fun!!!

Rating:
Summary: Expert Decorating Advice That Actually Makes Sense
Review: As a practicing designer, I read everything I can get my hands on regarding design/decorating. This book is not the usual "designer picture book" with focus on one particular style. And it is not yet another "crafty person with more time than money book" either. Loaded with practical decorating advice you can actually use, this book is unique. Ms. Ward's advice on children's rooms was particularly insightful. Her color suggestions in lieu of the "primary colors" were right on target. This book is a great resource.

Rating:
Summary: #1 already?
Review: How could this be #1 when it's just out? I'm beginning to wonder if I can trust what amazon says about which books are most in demand. This book has a strange title, and the author is no one I've ever even heard of.

Rating:
Summary: Tells You Lots
Review: I bought the book thinking it would help me and it did. Between this book and Fabrique Technique and a few other books out there I finished my home
Thank You Lory

Rating:
Summary: Not worth it
Review: I did not find this book helpful. It did not have that many decorating ideas. It mostly was about how to get organized and how you should keep your home clean. In other words, basic common sense. I am glad I did not buy this book. I was able to find it at the library, so it saved me from wasting my money. I actually found more useful information on the internet. Maybe her first book is better, but I will not buy it until I actual see it.

Rating:
Summary: Not Much Help
Review: I wish I could get the money back on this one. I love the idea of "using what I have", but the author sure doesn't give you much leeway on RIGHT and WRONG. I prefer suggestions, not barked orders (i.e. "whatever you do, don't do this....." and "never ever do this....") I kept thinking throughout the book that having the author decorate my house would be like letting my mom do it: "I know what's best for you, dear."

Rating:
Summary: A Designer for All Peoples
Review: I've just read Ms. Ward's second book and believe that anyone who has given it a negative review really hasn't read it or just doesn't understand how valuable this information is to everyone. Using what you already have is what makes your home unique, following these simple principles is what makes it spectacular. Ms. Ward shares information that will always yield fabulous results no matter what you have or what type of dwelling you have. If you want to live in a soothing environment that supports your lifestyle (no matter what it may be) and stimulates your senses, then you need to read this book and keep it for future reference.

Rating:
Summary: Thank you, Lauri Ward!
Review: It is so refreshing to find a decorating book that you can use! I don't know about anyone else, but the "eye candy" variety of decorating book leaves me feeling frustrated and dissatisfied - much like a high fashion magazine!! Lauri Ward's new book may not be goregous - but after reading it, I made a few adjustments that made my home look a whole lot better. The section on outdoor furnishings was particularly helpful - and timely! Anyone who has approached a flooring showroom with the same trepidation as a used car showroom will feel better equipped after reading her chapter on floors! This book is a great resource.

Rating:
Summary: Thank you, Lauri Ward!
Review: It is so refreshing to find a decorating book that you can use! I don't know about anyone else, but the "eye candy" variety of decorating book leaves me feeling frustrated and dissatisfied - much like a high fashion magazine!! Lauri Ward's new book may not be goregous - but after reading it, I made a few adjustments that made my home look a whole lot better. The section on outdoor furnishings was particularly helpful - and timely! Anyone who has approached a flooring showroom with the same trepidation as a used car showroom will feel better equipped after reading her chapter on floors! This book is a great resource.