The latest endeavor by Zega and Dams, authors and illustrators of Versailles, Chinoiserie and more — a light-hearted volume — -containing architectural alphabet. This architectural abecedarium comprises 26 watercolor vignettes that incorporate each letter of the alphabet in a related architectural or garden theme. I had the honor and the pleasure to write the forward.

"Who doesn't love "Blue & White"? — and who doesn't adore Carolyne's gorgeous books? The latest must-have volume for your Roehm library.

"Beautiful — thoughtfully edited and rooms curated to exude warmth and richness without being self-conscious. No easy task - but Micheal does it with ease."

"Another must have to help inspire and guide your table settings. So many ideas — I'll plan some more dinners! William and I had dinner recently at the Mercer and we would have talked all night but he was off early the next morning on a train and then another book signing. Boundless energy, wicked sense of humor, sharp business mind. What's next, Willie?"

I have visited Versailles more times then I can count. I have taken thousands of photos — some now in books or some in files. I have read simultaneously numerous biographies of the maligned and idolized Queen Marie Antoinette. I find the woman and her life at Trianon hauntingly sad. As she created a world away form court, where she said she was not the queen but herself. In our own homes, we can be ourselves, express ourselves...sounds so simple. The book party for Christian Duvernois + Francois Halard was held in New York at the Polo Mansion in a bedroom outfitted with a lit of "Polonaise" - with printed linen upholstered walls. Francois Halard's black&white and colored photos enriched with Christian Duvernois's detailed thoughts of everyday life at Le Hameau.

Decorating Ideas Forever. Pick it up now. Settle down for an afternoon of inspiration and planning new projects. The book is as much fun as all those cute, funny, smart girls at Domino.

According to Jeff Bilhuber, luxury is not a luxury — it is a necessity. Expressions of luxury should be an essential part of our every day. Luxury is not just about grand gestures and deep pockets. Jeffrey's work is bold, intelligent, sprinkled with humor, always thoughtful with a dash of fun.

“Define your style and then forget the rules.” And that is just the beginning of the thoughtful, sound advice that characterizes Darryl Carter’s book. He chooses his words as he chooses art, objet, paint colors, etc. — confidently, sensitively, graciously and logically. I felt so at home when I read this line: "Having books randomly placed throughout the home can make them more inviting to read." Thanks Darryl! I feel so much better about my piles now.

“My career in decorating continues to be a journey through colorful and inspiring landscapes.” Exuberance, color, honesty, confidence and generosity describe the book and its author. “I went to the office of a superstar decorator…to see, learn absorb, savor…” Advice from a master ‑ young decorators, take heed.

Practice what he preaches — “…the greatest quality a home might possess is that of innate, soulful, hospitality.” Spoken like a true Southern gentleman. Indeed, each home between these covers exudes, warmth, richness, and the hand of someone that has successfully integrated his clients needs and desires.