French Touch, The

Craftsmanship-lost and found. This is the quest and the discoveries of Jan de Luz. Ancient artisans in France built castles, churches and chateaux with the idea that beauty endures. They chose materials that would last and used processes that assured the influence of time would add character, itself a value. Jan de Luz brings the French touch to America in bold ways through architectural elements and accessories rescued from ancient buildings throughout France-stone and marble mantels, farmhouse sinks, stone sentinels, pillars and fountains, even spiral staircases. Discerning homeowners have embraced the opportunity of adding character and flair to their homes by personally selecting distinctive elements that convey history and tradition as well as the owner's appreciation of beauty and substance. Each piece not only serves its new owners but stands as a stately, impressive, lovely piece of art in a living room, kitchen, garden, or any room of the house. This is the look of France influenced by the Basque region, where striped linen runners accent the tabletops and rustic pots hold blooming flowers and garden tools. With stunning photography by Tom O'Neal, quality French antiques are showcased in their new homes, wrapped in warm settings and decor that exude the feelings of the old-world countryside.

Jan de Luz brings Southern French style to America in a bold way: he rescues antique French architectural elements and accessories from the countryside-mantels, farmhouse sinks, stone sentinels and fountains, even wooden spiral staircases-and brings them to America. Installed in their final American destinations, each piece stands as a stately, impressive, and lovely piece of art in a living room, kitchen, garden, or any room of the house.
With luscious photography by Tom O'Neill, an extensive resource list, and chapters that include "Importing French culture to America," "Pieces that Transform," and "Hunting for the Rare," this book is destined to become a classic for Francophiles, antique collectors, and anyone who loves the feel of the old-world countryside.