French Influences

Mention the French and most minds overflow with symbols of their panache: sensuous velvets, leopard prints, toile, silk taffeta curtains, deep bullion trim, and eighteenth-century furnishings. The truth is, it is difficult not to fall under the influence of the French, whose uncommon grace is inherent in everything they do. Inspired by their rich cultural heritage and the breathtaking beauty of their country, their celebrated approach to living, dressing and dining is as distinctive as their decorating, which is undeniably the essence of French chic. From their rock-crystal chandeliers and Aubusson rugs, to their exquisite tapestries, feather-filled armchairs, and painstakingly carved armoires, the American appetite for French style is endless. Following on the heels of Provencal Interiors: French Country Style in America and French by Design, in French Influences, Betty Lou Phillips delves into the world of design francais once again, illustrating through lavish color photography how, room by room, French elegance remas the creme de la creme.

Mention the French and most minds overflow with symbols of their panache: sensuous velvets, leopard prints, toile, silk taffeta curtains, deep bullion trim, and eighteenth-century furnishings. The truth is, it is difficult not to fall under the influence of the French, whose uncommon grace is inherent in everything they do. Following on the heels of Provencal Interiors: French Country Style in America and French by Design, in French Influences, Betty Lou Phillips delves into the world of design francais once again, illustrating through lavish color photography how, room by room, French elegance remains the creme de la creme. From living rooms to kitchens, bedrooms, dining rooms, media rooms, gardens, and baths, French Influences reveals the means for creating French-style rooms in the home. Furniture, linens, floor coverings, window treatments, accessories, color palettes, lighting fixtures, and antiques inspired by their rich cultural heritage, including rock-crystal chandeliers, Aubusson rugs, exquisite tapestries, feather-filled armchairs, and painstakingly carved armoires are all part of this style. And the resource guide makes it possible for anyone to locate these objets d'art and decorate a la francais, creating a gracious mingling of old-world charm and ease. Author of Provencal Interiors: French Country Style in America and French by Design, Betty Lou Phillips is a professional member of the American Society of Interior Designers. Her design work has appeared in such publications as Southern Accents, Bedroom, Bath & Wall, and Decorating, and has also graced many magazine covers. Additionally, her design talents were featured in an appearance on the Oprah Winfrey Show. She livesin Dallas, Texas.