Laura Ashley Guide to Country Decorating

Laura Ashley needs no introduction. In this survey of different regional adaptations of her rustic sympathies, attention to detail remains constant, whether the inspiration is Provencal (note rafters, lavender, lemons) or the American Southwest (likewise, terra-cotta, cacti, candles); eight other basic styles come under consideration. The authors and photographer grant us access into rooms and nooks, spotlighting details, such as various types of flooring (tile, wood, linoleum); shelves; fireplaces; and pillows. The book is divided into several parts, following an introduction, that address general design concerns, technical advice and accessories. Crisply plush, the book is likely to seduce, though it may ultimately be more useful as escape or fantasy than as a manual: the pictures are so tranquil, they lead one to forget about the work that went into creating these interiors-and that one would need to reproduce. (Oct.)