cover image Architectural Ornamentalism: Detailing in the Craft Tradition by Shul

Architectural Ornamentalism: Detailing in the Craft Tradition by Shul

Jim Kemp. Watson-Guptill Publications, $32.5 (175pp) ISBN 978-0-8230-7039-8

The formerly trendy stark white interior is now passe: designers and craftsmen add beauty and character to homes by emphasizing frequently overlooked structural elements. A hand-carved door, leaded-glass windows, tile floors and wallsall are examples of architectural ornamentalism. Kemp (Victorian Revival in Interior Design, etc.) wisely approaches the subject by examining materials, with sections on wood, glass, metal, fiber, and masonry and ceramics. The superb workmanship includes several stunning staircases, delicate and imaginative garden gates (exteriors as well as interiors are considered, particularly in the metal section) and a novel yet classic-looking glass bench. The text does a fine job explaining how effects are achieved, but the accompanying photographs, although of high quality, frustrate. There are textual references to details that aren't clear in the photographs, or have been cropped out of the picture. A list of architects, artisans and supplies is included, as well as guidelines for working with craftsmennone of these projects are for do-it-yourselfers, but they will inspire homeowners, designers and architects. Perron authored A River for the Living. (October)