Contemporary

Rating:
Summary: Great general guide to what was 'Contemporary'
Review: This book is a great general guide to what was 'contemporary' - including architecture of the home, public building and office. In addition, it delves into interior design - including glass, wall treatments, flooring and furniture. The prospective reader should be made aware right off that this book is written from the British perspective - one will see British English spellings of words, and names of British companies. However, the vast majority of the book deals with American developments, which is more pertinant to the US reader. I call this book a great 'general' introduction because it digs about 75% of the way into each subject. But how many other books can cover so many subjects as well? None that I've been able to find so far. The book is richly illustrated, including some photos which span the entire page. The text is interesting and easy to understand. After reading each chapter of the book, you are left with a good basic undertanding of what you've just read. The pictures themselves are generally period photos, which really help the reader see what 'contemporary' was to the eyes of the folks living at that time. If you are contemplating purchasing a 'contemporary house', or perhaps decorating in the 'contemporary' style, this book will give you some good ideas. Overall, a very enjoyable book - it would make a good present, and look great sitting on your coffee table!

Rating:
Summary: Mid-century Must...
Review: This is a pretty cool book. The photos are honest, as they're from the era instead of reconstructed rooms today. Very in depth also; it covers furniture, architecture, glassware, kitchens, textiles and other home furnishings.

Rating:
Summary: Great grainy pictures!
Review: This is a pretty cool book. The photos are honest, as they're from the era instead of reconstructed rooms today. Very in depth also; it covers furniture, architecture, glassware, kitchens, textiles and other home furnishings.