Bookshelf: American Style

In this Thanksgiving month we're celebrating books that pay tribute to American style décor.  Now the evenings get dark earlier, it's the perfect time to curl up and turn the pages for some interior design inspiration. These recently published books each look at a different angle of American style. All of them are packed with ideas and creativity!

Early American Country Interiors

Just like us, author Tim Tanner is a big fan of beautifully designed furniture that stands the test of time. Nicely crafted old objects also grow more lovely and full of character every year. Giving ideas for interiors that reflect the spirit of early American country style, this book features homes from Maine to Utah. The design ideas for every room of the house are aimed at creating an inviting and comfortable atmosphere. We love the cozy sense of nostalgia in this delightful tribute to traditional American style. We also love that the author has restored his own 19th century home. He knows what he's talking about!

Mario Buatta: Fifty Years of American Interior Decoration

I guess that a designer who created interiors for Blair House, the official state guest house of the President of the United States, is something of an expert on American style! Mario Buatta has also been the décor guru for clients including Barbara Walters, Malcolm Forbes, and Mariah Carey. He's famous for his comfortably luxurious and traditional design schemes. Many of his interiors feature antiques (of course!) as an essential part of creating that elegant mood. He's also known for his fabulous color schemes. The book is rather expensive – it's definitely a collector's item.

House Proud: Unique Home Design, Louisiana

Focusing on the unique American style to be found in Louisiana, this new book gives a tour of some of the most impressive homes in the state. Rich in personality and creative décor, the homes range from pre-Civil war grandeur to a charming Creole cottage. The author, New Orleans interior designer Valorie Hart, also writes for The Visual Vamp. She shares the stories of each homeowner and how they restored and designed the houses featured in the book. They certainly are house proud, and they have every reason to feel that way!

What do you think is an essential element of true American style? Tell us in the comment box below.