Artfully Modern: Interiors by Richard Mishaan

nice book, but not really worth the price

Beautiful coffee table book. Very unique ideas on décor.

Definitely not the inspirational design book I expected. I would not recommend this book.

I received this wonderful book recently from my good friend and co-blogger Katherine (kasainteriors.wordpress.com). Clearly, it was written to inspire the reader's thoughts, and it certainly does so. Mishaan shows you how versatile interior design can be, even within the scope of a single designer's portfolio. In other words, this book is an antithesis to the “one designer - one style” match and constantly surprises you with new ideas and fresh styles in every chapter.He himself notes that he never thought of working in one particular style, as he loves mixing up things too much! How liberating is that? Finally, we encounter the work of a great designer who does not feel obliged to follow the stringent dictates of “mid-century”-modern design, minimalism or “classical style”. Finally, there is somebody who answers the important question of “what to do with a client’s “old stuff”? How to design “around” (or better: with) a client’s antiques, art works or ubiquitous travel souvenir collection without having to end up at the eclectic spectrum of the design universe?Needless to say, I found myself very much at home flipping through the many stunningly beautiful pages while absorbing Mishaan's accompanying inspiring comments and credos. For him, design is not about choosing a style and sticking to it. In fact he often designs without any particular style in mind, simply trying to put artfully together what people love, so that they will feel comfortable. Apart from location, Mishaan's designs are influenced by “time of life” (as in young family vs. retirement home) and taste. If the client is a collector, the collection needs to be embraced by the design. If the client is an artist, his or her level of visual sophistication needs to be taken into account and - learnt from. If a design brief will drag Mishaan out of his “comfort zone”, he will gleefully take up the challenge. The range of the different designs presented in this book are a clear testament to his attitude.We are introduced to examples of show house rooms (a la Hollywood), an apartment for a young family in Carnegie Hill, a show home design following the theme “festivals”, the renovation of a home of two artists with different tastes and preferences, the mid-century style apartment of a design-savvy and well-travelled fashion executive, the rich designs of the presidential suite of the St. Regis New York, Mishaan’s own 15th century place in Cartagena (Columbia), the truly “over the top” design of two combined penthouses in one of Lower Manhattan’s most prestigious buildings and last but not least the designer’s family country home.In short, a very enjoyable read, a treasure trove of ideas, and a feast for the eyes.

Just got this book and already got so many great design ideas. I'm building my dream home in Sonoma and have been able to implement these ideas to better the original design. I love color but am obsessed with the neutral palette in the Caribbean home. I highly recommend buying this book. I love it.Alfred GuerlingSan Francisco, CA.

I recently bought Artfully Modern because I'm re-decorating my house. I love it! It's really inspired me during this project. The interiors are elegant and luxurious, and I love how Mishaan incorporates pieces of art into his interiors. Everything, down to the details, is so carefully selected.Perfect for all lovers of art and especially those passionate about design.

Richard Mishaan has incredible taste and is truly inspiring. This book looks great on my coffee table and the content is gorgeous.

A really beautiful and inspiring book. Love looking through it and sharing it with friends.

A beautifully constructed book by The Monacelli Press, with very high standards of production.Many will know Mishaan through the pages of Architectural Digest or his previous tome.These are the interiors of an architect-designer, someone who can remodel rooms.The outcome is high-end, contemporary modern, American luxe.Expect pages covering various interiors that Mishaan has re-styled, including his own homes.It is an approach to interior decorating that feels 40's/50's Hollywood period inspired, but could only be contemporary.