
The House in Good Taste - By - Elsie de Wolfe
New York The Century Co. - 1913
LIST OF ILLUSTRATIONS
I
THE DEVELOPMENT OF THE MODERN HOUSE
II. SUITABILITY, SIMPLICITY AND PROPORTION
III. THE OLD WASHINGTON IRVING HOUSE
IV. THE LITTLE HOUSE OF MANY MIRRORS
V. THE TREATMENT OF WALLS
VI. THE EFFECTIVE USE OF COLOR
A charming early‑20th‑century guide invites readers to look at their homes through the eyes of a pioneering interior stylist. Blending thoughtful essays on proportion, color, and the timeless balance of form with vivid photographs and sketches, the book shows how everyday rooms can be reshaped into spaces that feel both elegant and livable. It draws on historic examples—from Georgian dining rooms to Louis XVI boudoirs—while urging modern homeowners to let go of pretentious excess and embrace sincere, functional beauty.
The author’s lively narrative walks you through the evolution of the modern house, emphasizing that good design is rooted in tradition, practicality, and personal taste. With practical tips on selecting furniture, arranging lighting, and using textiles, the text becomes a hands‑on companion for anyone ready to transform a familiar space into a truly pleasing home. Whether you’re redecorating a single room or reimagining an entire house, the book offers inspiration that feels both classic and refreshingly accessible.
Language
en
Duration
~5 hours (313K characters)
Publisher of text edition
Project Gutenberg
Release date
2005-01-17
Rights
Public domain in the USA.
Subjects

1865–1950
A stage actress turned design pioneer, she helped invent modern interior decoration by replacing heavy Victorian clutter with light, comfort, and elegant simplicity. Her 1913 book The House in Good Taste made her ideas famous far beyond the rooms she designed.
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