I was thrilled to be asked to review Beth Webb's new book, Beth Webb: An Eye For Beauty - Rooms That Speak To The Senses, by Beth Webb, Rizzoli New York, 2017.

An Eye For Beauty, Rooms That Speak To The Senses, Interior Designer: Beth Webb

I am a huge fan of her work and have often pinned it, drooled over the images, and studied each detail with a real understanding of what it takes to get to this level of accomplishment in interior design.

I am sharing a few thoughts with you today that I noticed upon diving into this volume of work and how it speaks to me as a designer and lover of thoughtful, well-designed spaces.

You will surely want to find this exquisite book wrapped up under your tree this year if you love design and beautiful interiors as much as I do.

Beth Webb's New Book, An Eye For Beauty, Rooms That Speak To The Senses

You would think that in this world of abundant images and information, where Instagram, Pinterest, television and the world wide web are overflowing with interior views, makeovers, and sneak peeks of so many homes, that there would also follow an abundance of exquisitely beautiful interiors.

I'm not sure that's the case.

In fact, I feel like, even with all of the access to ideas and inspiration, that mostly what we see these days in design inspiration leans to over-design and decoration.

I think there is a tendency, now more than ever, toward overdoing, overthinking, over-accessorizing. I'm not talking about maximalist design, I'm talking about taking a concept or style and just pushing it too far.

What I appreciate most in this book, is the restraint.

There is an air of sophistication in restraint.

There is an air of complexity in restraint.

There is an air of appreciation in restraint.

Best of all.....there is AIR.

Air to breathe.

While I would not call these interiors sparse by any means, I would say that all the objects and furnishings within these rooms are more appreciated, have more attention, and speak to more luxury because they are not crowded or overdone.

To me, it almost seems like this designer, upon finishing a room, might just come back and remove one thing. Everything is complete, everything is designed, but there has been room left for living.

Focusing on quality materials, simple but finely tuned details, and the overall perception of the space rather than a picturesque vignette, a big statement or "moment" in the room, creates an air of livable luxury on these pages that you won't want to miss.

There are lessons here for all of us, homeowners and professionals alike.

If you are a design lover like me, you will love this book, the commentary and images. But mostly, you will admire the talent and grace behind the work.