Book covers don't come much better than this, do they? It perfectly sets the tone for Maxwell Gillingham-Ryan's and Clarkson Potter's latest offering - Apartment Therapy's Big Book of Small, Cool Spaces - which doesn't just claim to provide decor tips and advice for actual small spaces, it delivers on its promise. And what's more, it does so to great effect. Yep, Maxwell's taken his Apartment Therapy magic and transferred it into print, giving the reader decor and storage advice for cozy kitchens and compact living rooms to small dining rooms and miniature bedrooms (trust me, some of them are tiny!). Each section starts with general thoughts and advice for making the most of the space in question and then takes you on a tour of some super tasty apartments, highlighting the details of what makes them work so well. If you need any confirmation that this book isn't just another paint-by-numbers, small-rooms-should-always-be-white-and-clutter-free kinda book, well then just check out some of the pages below. One of the smallest kitchens I have ever seen has been painted black (3) yet still appears airy and shrouded in natural, fresh light. Then there's the two living rooms that prove you can still be bold with both pattern and colour (4) in small spaces, whilst also going for an eclectic, boho look, too (5). Maxwell explains at the start that he wants "you to get so excited that you'll eventually put it [the book] down", well, Maxwell, you've certainly inspired me. Personal, practical and enlightening - this is a book for keeps.
Book published by Clarkson Potter and authored by Maxwell Gillingham-Ryan, who also edits Apartment Therapy. Images of book for review purposes by Bright.Bazaar.
Posts
Beautiful ideas and inspiration for whether you live in an apartment or not! Jane :)
ReplyDeleteI need to put my hands on this book as soon as possible! Loving all the bold colors and what a pretty styling for these images you did, Will! The pencils are such a cute detail! xox
ReplyDeleteThe use of color does wonders for a small space. What a great gift idea for someone struggling to design a small space.
ReplyDeleteYour photo styling is fantastic!
This comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDeleteI willhave to get this one! Your photos are brilliant
ReplyDeleteI'd better take this off my wishlist and into the shopping basket pronto! Your photos are glorious Will.
ReplyDeletei've been addicted to their website for way too long!
ReplyDeleteLove your display of the book, the colours, the layout. They should be working for you! ;)
ReplyDeletelove bright bazaar style!!!
ReplyDeleteI liked your review, and if the photos here are any indication, this book is inspiring about those small spaces where you just don't know what to do. Can't wait to get it!
ReplyDeleteWill, first, thanks for your sweet sweet comments on my blog. It really amazes me anyone reads it besides my family (who never comment as you can clearly see, they email me instead. what up with dat??). lol.
ReplyDeleteSecond, I love the way you styled these shots!! Makes the book look more incredible! I want it now..
Great review - I've already ordered it!! And you could be a prop stylist! I love the way you photographed the book surrounded by the pencils, rope and tags...and that blue background!!
ReplyDeleteLove it! I never know how to make clutter looks so good like these people can! I mean, there's tonnes of stuff crammed into these spaces (like the photo of the bookshelf with framed art stepping up on a diagonal). It looks so good. Is it the bright blue background that pulls your attention beyond the stuff?? Why is it my piles of junk look like junk. Anyway, great photos.
ReplyDeleteAs much as I love surfing through Apartment Therapy, there is something about curling up with a good book that the "compy" just can't compete with. Will definitely be checking this out, thanks for the review!
ReplyDeleteJust found you and your lovely blog and look forwarding to reading more.
:) Christine
There's so much I'd like to get a closer look at. Guess I will have to pick up a copy!
ReplyDeletedamn boy did you take those pics? you photographer you.
ReplyDeleteAwesome post Will! Great photos as well!
ReplyDeletehmmm I thought I ws following this blog...i shall
ReplyDeleteExcellent review (and layout)! I am about halfway through their first book and can't wait to get my hands on this one, too.
ReplyDeletemy sweet love. gorgeous shots! gorgeous review! wowzers you are rockin it! you make me want to go buy this book NOW! xo
ReplyDeleteLove the review and the photos too, I'll have to get this one for my collection once I get another coupon from Borders :)
ReplyDeleteI LOVE this book. I keep having to buy it over and over again since every time a friend "borrows" it, I don't seem to see it again--the mark of a great book.
ReplyDeleteI love a good book with practical advice and great style! Helps balance out all the impractical design books with pretty pictures that I have... :)
ReplyDeleteI've been waiting for it! Loved their last book. Speaking of small spaces that aren't white - have you seen last issue of House Beautiful? It's all about that.
ReplyDeleteGlad to hear that you liked this book Will, it is on my wishlist for sure. Thanks for the review.
ReplyDeleteNancy
I NEED this book! Especially since you went as far as styling the photos;-)
ReplyDeleteI love color everywhere! Even black! I'been trying to convince a few people that black can be a great color in a young boys room if done right!
Thanks for the generous comments about my styling attempts in this post - I enjoyed putting it together! If you do get the book, please come back and let me know what you thought!
ReplyDelete