I’ve been anxiously awaiting both of these books to come out for a long, long time. Writing a book is a labor of love and to watch both Rebecca Atwood and Mark D. Sikes go through this process to create incredibly works of art is truly inspiring on so many levels. I’m thrilled to be sharing a little peek into these two gorgeous books with all of you.
Rebecca Atwood: Living With Pattern
Rebecca Atwood looks at the world and notices the small details around her. Raised in Cape Cod, there were patterns surrounding her at all times. It’s this awareness that helps to make her textiles some of my very favorite.
I’ve been a fan of Rebecca’s textiles for some time. You can find pillows with her fabric on them scattered throughout my home. They all share one thing in common: they have an earthy and warm sense to them. Their perfection is in their exquisite imperfection.
Now, all of us can learn a great deal from Rebecca’s book Living With Pattern. Not only is this book a visual treat with her hand-painted details, strong graphics, and perfect photographs by Emily Johnston, but it also provides important lessons on how to use textiles as the basis of your home design.
I urge you to look at Living With Pattern. I am certain you’ll be pulled into it, just as I was.
Mark D. Sikes: Beautiful
I was nearly giddy when I opened my mail and found a copy of Beautiful, by the talented designer, Mark D. Sikes. I share a deep affinity with Mark: the color blue. But as I sat down to read his book, I realized very quickly, that there is so much more to his decorating than a color he has an affinity for. Beautiful firmly plants him as one of today’s great decorators.
At first glance, you might appreciate the simplicity of a room he has decorated. However, after careful study, you realize there is a depth to the patterns, textures, and placement within a room that is anything but simple. Mark creates traditional rooms that dance gracefully with modern touches, tribal rugs, or handmade tables.
In a world where many call themselves decorators, Mark stands in a league of his own. I only hope to grow into being a decorator of his immense talents.
Be sure to check back next month for more book reviews. I’m constantly finding new books – both decorative and nightly reads that I want to begin to sharing with all of you.
Photos by Caitlin Flemming
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