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Past & Present
24 Favorite Moments in Decorative Arts History and 24 Modern DIY Projects Inspired by Them
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Check link for latest rating. ( 40 ratings, 7 reviews)
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Format: Paperback / softback
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Book Hero Magic created this recommendation. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! IS THIS YOUR NEXT READ?
This book is perfect for enthusiasts of home decoration, DIY crafters, and anyone fascinated by the history of decorative arts and how it shapes contemporary design trends. It caters well to those seeking to combine historical appreciation with hands-on creativity in their living spaces.
Past + Present is a collection of 24 pairs of essays and craft projects that explore the connection between decorative arts history and present day design trends.
Book Hero Magic formatted this description to make it easier to read. While it's new and
still learning, it may not be perfect - your
feedback is welcome!
Description
From the Palladian columns of our government buildings to Victorian-style taxidermy and terrariums, highlights from past decorative eras frequently resurface in our modern lives. In Past & Present, Design*Sponge managing editor Amy Azzarito presents 24 pairs of essays and craft projects that explore the connection between decorative arts history and present-day design trends. From a Wedgwood-inspired headboard made using moulding from the hardware store to an art nouveau-style tree-branch chandelier, the projects celebrate their roots yet fit perfectly into our contemporary living spaces. The projects have been contributed by some of today's best-known arbiters of design, such as Todd Oldham, Jonathan Adler, and Grace Bonney, adding extra allure to an already fascinating topic.
Praise for Past & Present:
"Spend 15 minutes D.I.Y.-ing this cute action station and we promise you'll never hear the phrase, 'Honey, have you seen my keys?' again." - Redbook Magazine
"Azzarito does a fantastic job applying the past to a modern context. For example, in the section on Palladian style, the DIY project is a Palladio tote bag that features a geometric pattern that is quite contemporary." - Anthology Magazine
"Complete with entertaining essays, whimsical illustrations and gorgeous DIY projects that explore the connection between decorative arts history and present-day design trends, this book is not only a DIY staple and a wealth of decorating history but also looks pretty enough for a coffee table." - About.com's Budget Decorating
"In design, everything is influenced by something else. It is nice to see the direct correlation between a trend and where it stems from historically." - Michele S Blog
"Part design history and part do-it-yourself book, Design*Sponge managing editor Azzarito has combined her love of the decorative arts with projects they inspire. The decorative accessories (e.g., Wedgwood pottery and Native American trade blankets) and design movements (e.g., Rococo and Art Nouveau) are spotlighted with a two-page description of that item or movement's importance in the history of decorative arts. DIY projects created by some of Azzarito’s favourite contemporary designers—including fashion designer Todd Oldham and Hurley art director Timothy Liles—are included with the essays that inspired them.
VERDICT: Beginning DIYers will find the projects easy to accomplish and those with more experience will be inspired to create their own decorative items from the historic background provided for each." - Library Journal
"Amy's new book... is full of dinner party-worthy facts—things you might not know now, but will be glad you learned." - HGTV.com
"The branch and crystal chandelier is a stunning take on the Art Nouveau period that took cues from natural elements. This chandelier is a little playful, a little glam, and a whole lot of wonderful." - The Makeshift Society
"History buffs and weekend warriors will get a kick out of our latest book obsession, Past & Present. Penned by Design*Sponge Managing Editor Amy Azzarito, this new book connects influential design eras to current decorating trends. Fascinating (but digestible) essays fill in the historical context, while easy-to-follow DIY projects created by top design talent reinterpret them for the modern home." - PopSugar.com
Book Hero Magic summarised reviews for this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! HOW HAS THIS BEEN REVIEWED?
Although formal reviews are not provided, Past & Present has been praised for making design history accessible and inspiring creativity. It is noted for its delightful essays, whimsical illustrations, and approachable DIY projects that connect past decorative styles with modern aesthetics. The book is considered suitable for beginners and appreciated for its blend of educational content and practical craft ideas.
Book Details
INFORMATION
ISBN: 9781617690204
Publisher: Stewart, Tabori & Chang Inc
Format: Paperback / softback
Date Published: 05 March 2013
Country: United States
Imprint: Stewart, Tabori & Chang Inc
Contributors:
- Illustrated by Julia Rothman
- Foreword by Grace Bonney
Audience: General / adult
DIMENSIONS
Spine width: 15.0mm
Width: 203.0mm
Height: 261.0mm
Weight: 710g
Pages: 144
Collections
About the Author
Amy Azzarito is the managing editor of the popular blog Design*Sponge. Formerly the digital producer at the New York Public Library, she graduated from Parsons/Cooper-Hewitt with a master's degree in the history of decorative arts and design. She lives in Brooklyn, New York.
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