COFFEE TABLE CHIC
PHOTOGRAPHIC TOURS OF HOMES AROUND THE WORLD
HOME FOR NOMADS: INTERIORS OF THE WELL-TRAVELLED Photographer Jan Verlinde and writer Thijs Demeulemeester showcase 20 homes that house objects collected from around the world. These exotic touches of far away places include a Vespa, tiki bar, surfboard and African mask, which “embody memorable and meaningful travels, and represent the nomadic spirit of the traveller in daily life”. Verlinde and Demeulemeester re veal how these elements can be displayed creatively, “giving the sense of travelling at home without leaving home”.
CURVED: BENDING ARCHITECTURE Author Agata Toromanoff explores 60 case studies from around the world of contemporary buildings that incorporate wave-like, rounded forms into their design, and includes a short historical overview and the most recent design and technical developments. The book notes that curved forms in architecture have been found throughout history (for example, the Colos seum in Rome) while adding that today’s constructions explore the curve to its utmost fluid and free-form potential. “From Zaha Hadid to Bosjes Chapel and from Brussels to China, this is a selection of amazing buildings by world class architects who think outside the box and have redefined the built world around us.”
With another northern hemisphere summer holiday season soon upon us, four coffee table books from Lannoo Publishers (available on Amazon) provide the opportunity for travellers to “unlock their interior wanderlust”. They also make excellent gift ideas for jetsetting family friends who are celebrating a birthday or special anniversary.
HOW TO GET AWAY: CABINS, COTTAGES AND DACHAS Written by Laura May Todd, this illustrated book of getaway homes focuses on the taste and soul of both the homeowner and the designer, featuring interiors “that feel authentic, lived-in, comforting and inspirational”. In addition to inspiring designs, the book also offers how-to advice about creating the perfect escape, and profiles seven types of retreat: contem porary cabins that offer a modern take on forest dwelling; minimalist ref uges that are both spare and soulful; dramatic décor hideaways; colourful cottages filled with art; re-imagined farmhouses; coastal hideouts from the seaside to the jungle; and high-concept homes in far-flung locations.
BOTANICAL BUILDINGS: WHEN PLANTS MEET ARCHITECTURE This latest book from Wonder Plants author Judith Baehner refers to the green architecture movement that has become a worldwide phenomenon – addressing sustainability and how the built world is enriched by nature. Presenting stunning and innovative buildings from around the world, it ex plores how they incorporate plants and architecture in both interior design and construction. The book’s inspiring projects and practical tips, for both professionals and enthusiasts, highlight the best of what’s green in houses (large and small), apartment buildings and offices.
