Modern Exotic: A Modern Approach to Ethnic Decorating Book

Modern Exotic is an inspirational fusion of global style and culture. The result, the book claims is "an eclectic blend of ingredients and flavours that brings a new sense of vitality to the home." In many ways the book does exactly what it claims. The authors, Elizabeth Wilhide and Joanna Copestick are both experienced designers with a flair for the exotic. The book begins with an interesting historic perspective on design and how an increasingly well travelled population has affected traditional British design. Styles explained include Moorish, Japanese and African and the authors include a section on ethical shopping in order to achieve this modern contemporary-exotic look. The book has chapters on the following key areas: walls, floors, windows and doors, furniture and furnishings and lighting and display. The emphasis on the traditional styles of Asia, Africa, Central and South America make for colourful decorative suggestions. For example walls are decorated with bold stripes and murals, floor coverings include mosaics and rugs and windows are swathed in printed muslin. The book gives step-by-step instructions on how to create furnishings such as a tiled worktop or a rustic screen. The pointers include a list of tools and materials required and every stage is clearly photographed. For the perfect finishing touch there are ways in which light can be used to enhance the ethnic ambience and how the simple addition of an exotic picture or an interesting table setting can complete the Modern Exotic interior. --Karen HomerRead More