I don’t have too many vices in life unless you count chocolate, a glass of wine every now and then, and an enduring addiction to books, particularly those of the coffee table variety. In the spring and fall, I eagerly anticipate the newest releases and this season has been no exception. So many promising titles are set to be released over the next month and the one I was most looking forward to– Markham Roberts‘ Decorating The Way I See It so I was thrilled that Vendome Press sent me an advance copy and the book certainly delivered what I was hoping for. Markham doesn’t work in a singular design style, so the book is filled with page after page of inspiring interiors with a few unexpected surprises. While the style in which he works changes from one project to the next, his approach to scale, composition, and the masterful way in which he mixes colors, patterns, and textures is ever-present.

The book is structured in a way that is both useful and inspiring to professional interior designers and design enthusiasts alike. The chapters are divided into practical themes– Floor Plan, Background, Scheme, Furniture, Collecting, Art, and Custom. The approach, while didactic, is fresh and fun to read. I treasure all of my design books and enjoy them all, but there are a handful that I go back to time and time again and I am positive that Markham’s new book will be one of them. It is easily my favorite design book of 2014 as there is so much to learn and to be inspired by in the gorgeous pages of Markham’s first design tome. Bravo, Markham!

{When I received my copy of Decorating the Way I See It, I was happy to discover the chic python cover under the equally chic dust jacket.}

{A Mix of Styles Come Together Beautifully in a Bold, Monochromatic Palette}

{Conversely, a palette of pale green and white composed in a much more casual way is just as chic.}

{One of my Favorite Rooms by Markham Roberts}

{Markham’s Ability to Mix Patterns is Nothing Short of Masterful}

{Another Favorite Room by Markham Roberts– The peacock blue walls and Federal-style mirror are stunning!}

{A Mix of Patterns, Colors, and Non-Traditional Seating Arrangement Make a Large Room feel Cozy}

{A Pretty Blue and White Bedroom}

{A Gorgeous Garden Designed by Markham Roberts}

For a major dose of inspiration or the ideal gift this holiday season, order Markham Roberts’ Decorating The Way I See It.