English Country House Style: Traditions, Secrets, and Unwritten Rules

I know an interior design book is great if, a few pages in, I get up from the sofa and start rearranging. I did that with this book and will return to it again and again for inspiration. Writing is wonderful too.

I have stacks of British country house decor books- this is a new favorite. The photography is gorgeous, the text is entertaining, gossipy and informative. I liked the organization of the book- while covering all of the ground you'd want (and more), it's different than any other similar book. The chapters are The Entrance Hall, The Boot Room, The Aga, The Dining Room, The Downstairs Loo, The Fireplace, Books, The Drinks Table, The Sofa, The Desk, the Four-Poster Bed, The Bath, Dogs, Fun and Games. Dogs feature in many of the photos, along with other animals- a horse of course, in the kitchen, and potbellied pigs. The downstairs loo chapter is a fascinating glimpse into a room (several with a "loobrary") rarely seen except by invited guests. The drinks table chapter is also to be called out as unique and informative.

It may have been, ironically, a Virginian, Nancy Lancaster, who elevated the appeal of the English country interior, but the English themselves have the matter well in hand now. This recent release is filled with wonderful room photos, subtle humor (buried in the text), and tips about color choices and fabric sources that will appeal to decorating enthusiasts. I am always keen for good nuggets like this one from the authors: “The worst sin one could commit in decorating a room is to make it look newly decorated.” There’s no risk of that with any of the homes featured here.

A wonderfully photographed book and excellent layout. I love how it covers each section in details with relevant and often humorous text and beautiful color photos. I have many books on this subject and this is now at the top of the list. Highly recommend!

Beautiful book.

Lovely well written and photography is clear and charming.

Fun reading as well as fun looking. A few more captions would have been great, but I am happy to have this book on my shelf to look at and read again.

I highly recommend this gorgeous design book. It is my personal type of decor with the traditional style. One of the very best design books that I have purchased in some time. It's a winner for the lover of antique, color and current blending of styles. It is a real keeper.

Very pleased with purchase. Found great ideas and was impressed with Quality.

Un libro imprescindible para anglófilos y todos aquellos que admiran su forma de vivir en el campo.

The book shows the exceptional English country style and way of life.

Beautiful book. Quality paper with superb photographs and informative texts.

Helt underbar bok! Jag har bläddrat i flera timmar och upptäcker hela tiden nya saker. Rekommenderar, om man gillar England!