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Live Beautiful


Synopsis


Beautiful design isn't just pleasant to look at; it improves the quality of our lives. It helps foster the traditions, rituals, and ceremonies we create in our homes. In Live Beautiful, the highly anticipated design book by Athena Calderone, the EyeSwoon creator taps into her network of interior decorators, fashion designers, and tastemakers to reveal how carefully crafted interiors come together. She also opens the doors to two of her own residences. With each homeowner, Calderone explores the initial spark of inspiration that incited the design journey and the deeply personal objects, stories, and references that accompanied it. She then breaks down the details of the rooms-like layered textures and patterns, collected pieces, and customized vignettes-and offers helpful tips and advice on how to bring these elevated elements into your own space. Filled with gorgeous photography by Nicole Franzen, Live Beautiful is both a showpiece of exquisite design and a guide to creating a home that's unique and thoughtfully put together.

Athena Calderone (author), Amy Astley (writer of foreword), Nicole Franzen (photographer)

Summary

Chapter 1: Define Your Style

* Explains the importance of defining your personal style to create a home that reflects your personality and lifestyle.
Example: Sarah, a creative and eclectic artist, opts for a bohemian style with bold colors, ethnic prints, and eclectic furnishings.

Chapter 2: Edit Your Belongings

* Emphasizes the benefits of decluttering and organizing your belongings to create a more spacious and serene living environment.
Example: John, a minimalist, sorts through his possessions, donating or discarding anything he doesn't use or love.

Chapter 3: Create a Functional Floor Plan

* Provides guidance on maximizing the use of your space by creating a functional floor plan that caters to your specific needs and activities.
Example: Mary, who works from home, designs her living room with a designated workspace that allows her to separate work and leisure areas.

Chapter 4: Choose the Right Furniture

* Explores the importance of selecting furniture that fits your style, dimensions, and functionality.
Example: Bob and Lisa choose a comfortable and stylish sofa with built-in storage for their small living room, making the best use of the available space.

Chapter 5: Lighting: Natural and Artificial

* Highlights the power of lighting in transforming a space and the benefits of combining natural and artificial sources to create the desired ambiance.
Example: Carla, a painter, uses natural light from the large windows in her studio to enhance her artwork, complemented by artificial lights for evening painting sessions.

Chapter 6: Add Color and Pattern

* Encourages experimenting with color and pattern to create visual interest and reflect your personality.
Example: Emily, a nature lover, incorporates green and floral patterns into her bedroom to evoke a calming and serene atmosphere.

Chapter 7: Incorporate Greenery

* Discusses the benefits of adding plants to your home for fresh air purification, aesthetic appeal, and a connection to nature.
Example: David, a yoga instructor, places lush indoor plants throughout his home to enhance the calmness and tranquility of his yoga practice area.

Chapter 8: Accessorize and Finish

* Provides tips on choosing accessories, textiles, and artwork to complete your home's design and add personal touches.
Example: Sarah, the artist from Chapter 1, displays her own artwork and vintage finds throughout her home to create a unique and eclectic ambiance.