Celebrates the old world of French and Italian design in decor by presenting photographs of interiors, close-ups of individual pieces, and advice on ways to create an inviting and international setting in one's home.

Mention the French and most minds overflow with symbols of their panache: sensuous velvets, leopard prints, toile, silk taffeta curtains, deep bullion trim, and eighteenth-century furnishings. The truth is, it is difficult not to fall under the influence of the French, whose uncommon grace is inherent in everything they do. Inspired by their rich cultural heritage and the breathtaking beauty of their country, their celebrated approach to living, dressing and dining is as distinctive as their decorating, which is undeniably the essence of French chic. From their rock-crystal chandeliers and Aubusson rugs, to their exquisite tapestries, feather-filled armchairs, and painstakingly carved armoires, the American appetite for French style is endless. Following on the heels of Provencal Interiors: French Country Style in America and French by Design, in French Influences, Betty Lou Phillips delves into the world of design francais once again, illustrating through lavish color photography how, room by room, French elegance remas the creme de la creme.

Room by room, French By Design reveals the secrets to creating a contemporary French-country look, including textiles, furniture, floor coverings, window treatments, accessories, color palettes, wall treatments, and lighting.

Inspired by the sun-drenched colours of Southern France, French country orrovencal decorating is as fitting in the city and suburbs as in rural areas.ut how does one go about achieving the provencal ambience?

Phillips presents spirit-lifting takes on classic style from a modern point of view, as she creates twenty-first-century comfort with lasting French flair.

France and Italy have long been the go-to spots for fashionistas, serious foodies and design mavens. Rich patinas, satisfying earthen hues and myriad natural materials—translate into timeless, unabashedly elegant yet livable rooms appropriate for our times. Award-winning designer Betty Lou Phillips shows how the best from two European countries combine to create la dolce vita—the good life—in ways that are unexpected and fresh, timeless, and unabashedly elegant yet livable rooms appropriate for our times. Award-winning designer Betty Lou Phillips shows how the best from two European countries combine to create la dolce vita—the good life.

A new look is emerging in France’s apartments as well as its imposing chateaux and country manors. Along with signature pieces of national identity—such as finely crafted wood pieces, splendid mirrors, and grandmère’s well cared for linens—European mid-century modern furnishings also adorn settings in this age of merging sensibilities. Homes photographed in France and the U.S. show abstract works of art mingling easily with painted furniture, budget-friendly finds from assorted cultures—such as wool rugs and handembroidered linens from India—and pottery, artisan-made pillows, throws and vintage textiles from remote markets in Morocco. BETTY LOU PHILLIPS, ASID, is the author of a dozen books on French design, including her most recent, The Allure of French and Italian Décor, French Impressions and Inspirations from France and Italy. Ms. Phillips lives in Dallas, Texas.