Anca I. Lasc delves into how interior design took root in 19th-century France. By examining various visual sources like manuals and catalogs, it shows how print media was pivotal in promoting the idea of cohesive interiors as artistic creations. This laid the foundation for the emergence of the interior design profession. It connects art history, visual culture, and design history by highlighting how trades relied on the aesthetic appeal of their work.

Authored by Scott Hanson, a seasoned historic-building preservation professional with 40 years of experience, the book is filled with practical advice, detailed visuals, and cost-saving tips. It showcases 13 restored historic houses of various architectural styles, illustrating how preserving a home's character can be achieved through renovations. Through abundant step-by-step photos, illustrations, and insightful guides, this book serves as an authoritative resource for anyone seeking to renovate a historic home without sacrificing its unique heritage.

Edith Wharton, alongside architect Ogden Codman, Jr., transformed a Newport summer home, aiming to counteract the ostentation of their wealthy neighbors. Their collaboration challenged the excesses of the Gilded Age by advocating simplicity and balance over clutter. Their ideas, showcased in this book filled with black-and-white photographs, exemplify classic architectural principles. From grand ballrooms to basic home elements like doors and floors, this influential work sparked a revival in American interior design. Its timeless advice continues to inspire and remains relevant today.