Stacey Bewkes, creator and author of Quintessence Blog, couldn't help but be tempted by Katie Ridder's newest book Katie Ridder Rooms when she spotted it on bookstore shelves. Here's Stacey's review of the enchanting book.
By Stacey Bewkes
As soon as I opened Katie Ridder Rooms I knew it was something special. As a former publishing art director, I appreciate when the actual production of a book is as beautiful as the designs it features. Many are attractive with fabulous photographs but very few show the attention to detail that this volume does. Each chapter opening is color coordinated with both the type and a charming related Ridder-style graphic. Take for example the title page and the opening photo of this spectacular dining room.
The vertical presentation does not do justice to the stunning double page layout, and it is this same attention to detail, these thoughtful but important touches, that sets Ridder’s work apart. I adore that she seeks out master artisans to collaborate with.
Take, for example, the work in this Virginia horse country living room. The valance is crowned by reproductions Ridder commissioned of antique gilded-wood branches. And the wool sateen curtains are embroidered with berries, twigs and leaves by specialty house Penn and Fletcher. The woodland theme then continues with a leaf pattern on the custom lampshades, not visible in this photo.
In a Hamptons bedroom above, the bold pattern of the Scalamandré silk ikat curtains is kept in check by the painted beadboard.
Even a small space like this Arkansas house bar deserved detailed attention. How fabulous is the glass and nickel shelving against that silver-on-peacock Japanese Floral wallpaper by Florence Broadhurst. It’s such an unexpected yet successful combination!
Check back for more from Quintessence Blog about Katie Ridder's Katie Ridder Rooms to hear more from Stacey on the fabulous new book.
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