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Literary Friday: Patina Style

Friday, July 22, 2011

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This week I read Patina Style by Brooke Giannetti & Steve Giannetti.  I usually check-out home decorating books from the library before purchasing them, but I ordered a copy of Patina Style  from Giannetti Home because I knew I would not be disappointed.  I have followed Brooke's blog, Velvet & Linen, for a very long time.  At first I was a "lurker" because I really did not understand blogging, but eventually I became a public follower.

I first discovered Brooke & Steve while reading Country Living Gardener several years ago, and I instantly fell in love with their home.  I thought it was so pretty, and the beauty of their home did not end with the walls; it extended out into the garden and pool area.  You could tell from the article that the family enjoyed blurring the boundaries between inside and outside.  Their cottage style mixed subtle garden hues, exterior elements, and pretty, soft florals.  Although they have redecorated most rooms since it was printed, it has been fun seeing how their lovely home has evolved.

Patina Style illustrates the Giannettis' definitive style through gorgeous photographs and well-written prose (yes, I am one of those readers who actually reads home decorating books).  I like the way the book is organized into chapters featuring elements of their design philosophy; "Embracing Imperfections," "Architectural Elements," and "Indoor Outdoor" were three of my favorite chapters. "Embracing Imperfections" taught me how a gorgeously painted accent wall can be sanded to achieve an aged patina.  In "Architectural Elements," I was drawn to the creative displays of old doors and shutters. "Indoor Outdoor" is my very favorite chapter. Architectural features are also used outside to define outdoor rooms.  I love the photo of an outdoor garden room that is anchored with weathered shutters. Pots and a painting are hanging from them adding to the coziness of the room.  The sitting area also features a heavy metal industrial shelving unit filled with gorgeous succulents planted in a variety of pots.  This chapter also features indoor rooms with stone tables and other outdoor elements.  The indoor and outdoor rooms are linked through casually opened, lovely French doors. This blend of the indoor and outdoor is definitely my favorite design element of patina style.

The Giannettis love shopping at antiques fairs and flea markets.  They believe rooms should have a combination of old and new, vintage and practical.  A pretty antique always has a story behind it; family pieces always remind the owners of their history.  Acquired pieces are fun, too, especially when found on fantastic trips out of the country, or fun outings to the local flea market.  Either way, memories and stories associated with antiques make a home unique, and I love how Brooke and Steve mix antiques with new upholstery and streamlined industrial pieces.

Brooke and Steve are in the planning stages of building their dream home, Patina Farm. Brooke is keeping her blog readers updated on their progress, and I hope that each step is documented because it would also make a great book.  I hope the Giannettis take the hint!

I love this book, and I look forward to reading it again over the weekend.  I know this book will make my Best Home Decorating Book List of 2011, and I highly recommend it.  If you would like to see which books made the cut in 2010, here is the link.

Until next time...

Happy Reading!
Ricki Jill


8 comments

  1. This looks like a book I need to order!

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  2. I think this one is something I will enjoy. Thanks Ricki.

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  3. If your its on your list of must haves I'm sure its a great book. I'll check it out.
    Hope your weekend is off to a great start.

    ~Emily
    The French Hutch

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  4. Great review. Don't you agree with the "combination of old and new, vintage and practical?" I have loved her blog for a long time too. Have a great weekend.

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  5. Good review, As you are a great home decorator I was wondering if you are a follower of Sarah at Modern Country Style? If not I think you might enjoy her blog Ricki Jill.
    http://moderncountrystyle.blogspot.com/
    Have a good weekend.

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  6. Thank you so much for this glowing review Ricki Jill!
    I'm so thrilled that you are enjoying Patina Style!

    xo xo
    Brooke

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  7. I just got her book too! LOVE LOVE LOVE it and love her! What a sweet and gracious woman!

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Hello!

I'm Ricki Jill. Welcome! I'm honored that you're reading my blog. I enjoy sharing my creative lifestyle @ The Bookish Dilettante. For more information about my blog, please read the Start Here page. Thank-you for stopping by, and I hope you'll consider following me via email.

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