Designer Brian Paquette shows how a connection to nature is key in creating a meaningful and supportive home environment.
An honest, introspective essay introduces Paquette's second book, which represents the most recent steps in his evolution as an interior designer. Some are ground-up homes that he worked on from the iteration, some are remodels of existing spaces in various scales, and some are furnishings of existing homes for clients. Concise chapter introductions are followed by gallery-like displays of images that the reader can become immersed in and interpret for themselves.
The twelve chapters include a selection of Paquette's personal photographs of nature scenes that in some shape or form inspired the work, or vice versa. Sometimes a morning walk on the beach inspired the palette for a room, which was drawn out from the many textures and patterns of the earth; and sometimes the work was so much in his head that a sunset reminded him of a completed room. He loves this duality, which makes for some interesting introspection and reflection. Paquette realizes that nature's true value is in the exact moment and the mark it will leave on his brain, perhaps to come back later as an inspired palette or a juxtaposition of textures.
For the reader, this book will prompt keener observation of the natural surroundings and how to bring those poignant moments into their own homes.
Industry Reviews
Paquette’s stunning book takes readers through 11 different interiors designed by the author. He has a thoughtful approach that brings nature into indoor spaces. For example, a gorgeous waterfront home in Seattle has a bedroom painted in the colors of a summer sunset and an avian-inspired gallery wall. Another house features a custom walnut dining table and a beautiful leaf design in the bathroom. There is a Manhattan Beach spot painted in ice cream shop colors that makes use of the light differences in California vs. the Pacific Northwest. A Spanish colonial home where the designer is given carte blanche—but challenged with making the home fit into the local style—ends up with a neutral, textured palette and splashes of green, reminiscent of the Pacific Northwest where the house is located. Readers will also get to see the author’s own Oregon Coast beach house, inspired by balance and mindfulness. Cozy fabrics and whitewashed walls enhance the style. Gorgeous photos of the homes interspersed with close-ups of fabric swatches let the designer’s elegant work speak for itself. VERDICT A book heavy on interior design images and light on words highlights the beauty that comes from bringing the outdoors into a home.