English Eccentric Interiors

Often featuring deliberate references to the tastes and stylesof bygone eras, all the interiors are united by a wonderful blendof vivacity and individuality, and display a great deal of passionand dedication in the creation of a unique space. At the same time, these interiors feature a diverse assemblage of traditions andtastes from every corner of the world, reflecting not only thehistorical make-up of British society but also the far-reachingknowledge-base upon which the creators of these glorious interiorshave been able to draw.

From a bizarre magician's house in London to a wildlyentertaining hotel in rural North Yorkshire, there is ampleevidence of the creative output resulting from this heady mix ofenthusiasm and expertise. Historical fantasies sit alongsideglorious 21^st-century expressions of maximalism, fromWalpole's stunning 'little play-thing house' at Strawberry Hill inTwickenham to the newly opened Great John Street Hotel inManchester where the style is joyfully described as 'New York meetsvintage chic.' Quirky, intellectual, stylish or humorous, all theinteriors in this book serve as a glorious testimony to the richlycreative tradition of English eccentricity, past and present.