The Decoration of Houses

The Decoration of Houses. This influential book on interior design was written by Edith Wharton and Ogden Codman Jr. and published by B. T. Batsford in 1897. The book was a groundbreaking work that challenged the conventional decorating practices of the time, drawing inspiration from Andrea Palladio and Inigo Jones. It also reflected the authors' interest in Italian Renaissance architecture and French Renaissance design, as seen in the works of François Mansart and Louis XIV.

● Introduction to House Decoration

The introduction to house decoration, as discussed in the book, emphasizes the importance of considering the architectural style of the house, such as Art Nouveau or Arts and Crafts movement, when making decorating decisions. Edith Wharton and Ogden Codman Jr. drew on their knowledge of European architecture, including the works of Leon Battista Alberti and Donato Bramante, to inform their approach to interior design. They also referenced the designs of Robert Adam and James Gibbs, who were known for their work on English country houses like Chatsworth House and Blenheim Palace. The authors' goal was to create a comprehensive guide to house decoration that would be useful to homeowners, including those living in New York City and London, who were looking to create beautiful and functional spaces.

● History of Interior Design

The history of interior design, as explored in the book, spans centuries and includes the contributions of many notable designers, such as Jean-Michel Frank and Émile-Jacques Ruhlmann, who worked on Art Deco projects like the Normandie (ocean liner). The authors also discussed the influence of Ancient Greek and Roman architecture on interior design, citing examples like the Villa of the Mysteries and the Pantheon (Rome). Additionally, they referenced the work of William Morris and the Pre-Raphaelite Brotherhood, who were instrumental in the development of the Arts and Crafts movement in England. The book also touches on the designs of André Charles Boulle and Jean-Henri Riesener, who created exquisite furniture for Versailles and other French châteaux.

● Principles of House Decoration

The principles of house decoration, as outlined in the book, emphasize the importance of balance, proportion, and harmony in creating a beautiful and functional space. Edith Wharton and Ogden Codman Jr. drew on their knowledge of classical architecture, including the works of Vitruvius and Palladio, to inform their approach to interior design. They also referenced the designs of Thomas Chippendale and George Hepplewhite, who were known for their work on English furniture and interior design. The authors stressed the importance of considering the architectural style of the house, such as Gothic Revival or Italianate architecture, when making decorating decisions. They also discussed the role of color theory and lighting design in creating a welcoming and functional space, citing examples like the Dresden Castle and the Palace of Versailles.

● Room by Room Decoration

The room-by-room decoration approach, as discussed in the book, provides guidance on how to decorate specific rooms, such as the living room, dining room, and bedroom. Edith Wharton and Ogden Codman Jr. offered advice on how to create a cohesive look throughout the house, drawing inspiration from European palaces like Fontainebleau and Schönbrunn Palace. They also referenced the designs of Frank Lloyd Wright and Louis Comfort Tiffany, who were known for their work on Prairie School architecture and Art Nouveau decorative arts. The authors discussed the importance of considering the function of each room, as well as the lifestyle and preferences of the occupants, when making decorating decisions. They also touched on the role of textiles and wallpaper in adding color, texture, and pattern to a room, citing examples like the Victoria and Albert Museum and the Metropolitan Museum of Art.

● Decorative Styles and Periods

The decorative styles and periods, as explored in the book, include a range of historical and cultural influences, from Ancient Egypt to Art Deco. Edith Wharton and Ogden Codman Jr. discussed the characteristics of different styles, such as Rococo and Neoclassicism, and provided examples of how to incorporate these styles into modern interiors. They also referenced the work of Eileen Gray and Le Corbusier, who were instrumental in the development of Modernist architecture and International Style. The authors touched on the role of antiques and collectibles in adding character and personality to a room, citing examples like the Louvre and the British Museum. They also discussed the importance of considering the architectural style of the house, such as Queen Anne style or Colonial Revival architecture, when selecting decorative elements.

● Influential Designers and Authors

The influential designers and authors, as discussed in the book, include a range of notable figures, from William Kent to Nancy Lancaster. Edith Wharton and Ogden Codman Jr. drew on their knowledge of European design history, including the works of Giovanni Bellini and Sandro Botticelli, to inform their approach to interior design. They also referenced the designs of Syrie Maugham and Dorothy Draper, who were known for their work on Hollywood Regency and Modernist interior design. The authors discussed the contributions of Elsie de Wolfe and Cecil Beaton, who were instrumental in the development of Modern interior design and fashion photography. They also touched on the role of design education and interior design schools, such as the Parsons School of Design and the Rhode Island School of Design, in shaping the field of interior design. Category:Interior design