what to do with those books

i absolutely love a space layered with books. not only do you end up with a treasure trove of knowledge at your fingertips, the space acquires dimension and texture. try layering your sofa or your bed up against a backdrop of books, then tack on some big bold framed images for even more interest.

images: one, two, three, four, five

weaving spiders come not here...

according to the author albert parry, at least two elements are essential to bohemianism, the first being an obsession with one or more of the seven arts, the other being poverty...i definitely adhere to the latter.  he describes "his bohemian" as a free-thinker, unconventional in their views on art, literature, and the ability to make beautiful with what is available.  i love how these ideas show themselves in design - eclectic, whimsical, free and unassumingly elegant.

images: cintia dicker via studded hearts; west village apartment via homedesignparadise; loft life_1; loft life_2; painting from pierre bergé; dress; sofa

book via amazon: garretts & pretenders: a hostory of bohemianism in armerica 
book via amazon: gypset style 
book via amazon: bohemian style

finding inspiration: Charlotte Moss

southern belle turned wall street exec. turned interior design icon, charlotte moss has established a loyal following in the world of interior design. while traditional french directoire pieces and chinoiserie may or may not be your thing, the work of ms. moss provides a wealth of inspiration and insight into the techniques of layering patterns, fabrics, timeless furniture pieces and warm hospitality. her latest book Charlotte Moss Decorates - The Art of Creating Elegant and Inspired Rooms is out tomorrow.

books are a huge inspiration to me both for content and for their presence in a space. i can't imagine a world without them. what books inspire you?

interview with CM

book via amazon: Charlotte Moss Decorates - The Art of Creating Elegant and Inspired Rooms