Nicky Haslam - by Nicholas Haslam (Hardcover)

About the Book

Originally published: London: Jacqui Small, 2014.

Book Synopsis

The enduring appeal of English-style interiors from the current master of the genre. Nicholas "Nicky" Haslam is one of the world's most distinguished interior designers, and this career-crowning monograph explores his signature style. Haslam began designing in 1972 and has become known for opulent, original, and timeless interiors. With a prime motivation of creating interiors that are "flattering to their owners," his firm's work is seductively glamorous, layered with a historical knowledge and an originality that belies the careful focus on practicality and livability. The mix of the deeply serious, grand, and impressive with charm and above all wit is Haslam's trademark. With its fresh, lively, and spontaneous approach that reflects Haslam's charisma, wit, and charm, this gorgeously illustrated volume reveals the influences, inspirations, and achievements that have been pivotal to his success. Haslam shares material from both his personal scrapbook and professional archive to highlight key moments in his colorful career, his most acclaimed designs, and the sources of his creative inspiration. Clients have included Ringo Starr, Mick Jagger, the Mandarin Oriental Hotel Hong Kong, Maurice and Charles Saatchi, Rupert Everett, Alec Wildenstein, Peter Soros, and Janet de Botton, among many others. He has also designed parties for the Prince of Wales, Lord Rothschild, Sir Evelyn and Lady de Rothschild, and Tina Brown.This beautiful and inspiring volume will appeal to anyone interested in interior design and the art of living well.

Review Quotes

"Across page after page of personal snapshots, detailed sketches, and opulent rooms, Haslam traces the evolution of his deeply chic English style." -House Beautiful Magazine

"Put some pep into your reading list with [this] lively spring publication..." -Domino Magazine

"English born vivant Nicky Haslam is most definitely a decorator of the highest order, and this book, Nicky Haslam: A Designer's Life, is proof. But erudite Haslam is also an engaging performer and recording artist, known for his literary and artistic pursuits as well . . . One of the UK's most illustrious designers, Haslam's mother, Diana Ponsoby, was a granddaughter of the 7th Earl of Bessborough and goddaughter of Queen Victoria; he was educated at Eton, worked for Diana Vreeland at American Vogue, moved to Arizona to breed horses and returned to Engalnd to take up the life of an interior designer, only to propitiously transform the homes of Bryan Ferry, Mick Jagger, and Lord and Lady Lloyd Webber. Just our kind of chap." -PaperCity Magazine

"The book reads in part as a memoir (and a lively one at that, ) but it also allows the reader to see how a designer such as Haslam translates inspiration into some very posh interiors. If you're looking for a delightful design book, then Haslam's book should suit you to a T." -Peak of Chic

"Half autobiography, half style guide, the British decorator's monograph brims with lively sketches, personal anecotes, and well-earned wisdom." -Architectural Digest

"Library Essentials -- Nicky Haslam: A Designer's Life is a scrapbook of the celebrated decorator's colorful work-and life." -Veranda

About the Author

Nicky Haslam is one of the world's leading interior decorators. He is the author of Nicky Haslam's Folly De Grandeur: Romance and Revival in an English Country House. His work has been featured in Architectural Digest, World of Interiors, Vogue, House & Garden, Elle Decor, and Traditional Home.