I wondered if I could enjoy Nicky Haslam’s new book as much as I did the last, which was a lot. (You can find my review here.) While that book focused on Haslam’s house in the country, this is a broader view of his work and his philosophy as a designer.
It is filled with collages of newspaper clippings, sketches and personal photos that catalogue a life so full that I was almost overcome with envy. In addition, there are practical sections on decorative elements, the use of color and when it’s okay to cheat.
Haslam’s rooms may not, at first glance, strike you as easily translatable, but in fact, I gained a lot of inspiration from this book. (And not only that I want to be living a bigger and bolder life.) In addition, his voice is charmingly conversational and you will wish that you were seated next to him at a dinner party or side-by-side at a coffee shop. On the aching shelves of my bookcases, there are few decorators who include their craftspeople in their acknowledgements. So, basically, he had me at, “Hello.”
You can find Nicky Haslam: A Designer’s Life here.
All images courtesy Rizzoli New York, 2015.
I found Nicky's book surprisingly translatable too! It's rare that a coffee table designer book can have elements that can go into a regular home and not just a palazzo. Loved the writing too.
OK. You did it. I was on the fence on this one. Now it's on my way to me…and my still chaotic home with books packed up in crates yearning to be set free. I see a time where my books are organized, easy to find, AVAILABLE! As with you, it would have been easier to have said no more books until this whole house project is done. I am so weak!
Patricia, Nicky is indeed an iconic designer who mixes effortlessly with anyone he meets! My bookshelves are bulging with treasures and I must add A Designer's Life to my collection!
xoxo
Karena
The Arts by Karena
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