The classic English country cottage is both an icon and an archetype. Dozing beneath a heavy thatch and with roses around the door, it seems to epitomize all that is desirable about life in the countryside and to offer the perfect antidote to the stress of the urban grind. In Perfect English Cottage, Ros Byam Shaw takes a fresh look at the decorating and design solutions that make the classic English country cottage as attractive inside as out as well as practical and comfortable to live in. The book is divides into five different chapters that address different facets of the look: Romance, Character, Holiday, Simplicity and Elegance. The featured homes are incredibly varied, from a humble farmworker's cottage with exposed beams to a pared-down Georgian gem, to a picture-perfect cottage with roses round the door — and plenty more adorning the interior. At the end of each chapter there is an invaluable review picking up on ideas and inspiration from the featured homes. At the end of the book there is also a comprehensive directory of sources to help you achieve the English Cottage look in your own home — wherever you may live.

Scandinavian interior design is admired the world over for its unpretentious simplicity and understated elegance. Rooms are typically airy, light and bright. Furnishings are modern design classics from the key names of Scandinavian design (Hans Wegner, Poul Kjaerholm, Arne Jacobsen and Marimekko, to name but a few) mixed with pretty antique and vintage pieces. The beauty of natural materials, especially wood, is celebrated. It's a style that's entirely in tune with our current desire for calm, comfortable and uncluttered spaces to live in. The 20 homes featured in this book are presented as case studies, with chapters including Elegant Simplicity, Vintage-Inspired, Pared-down Modern and Contemporary Rustic. Each home showcases an aspect of Scandinavian interior design and the home owners include architects, fashion and jewellery designers and antique dealers. The accompanying text offers a fascinating insight into each home, describing its design, planning and evolution. Celebrating a way of life that combines elegance and comfort with a strong love of the natural world, 'Simply Scandinavian' offers an abundance of decorative ideas that will work in any setting.

The Bohemian Modern home is a place where creativity, individuality, and a wild mix of colour and pattern meet in a modern environment. Whitewashed walls and polished concrete floors are brought to life by vibrant Moroccan rugs and wall hangings; a cosy chair made from wicker suspended from the ceiling, and a veritable jungle of house plants — clustered in pots, hanging from the ceiling or even growing on the walls. The style certainly gives a nod to '70s chic, with its use of shagpile rugs, Swiss cheese plants, and macrame, but it stands firmly in the present day by boldly contrasting those elements with sleek modern art on the walls and polished concrete worksurfaces. Emily Henson starts by taking a look at the different facets of the look: pattern and colour, textiles, handmade pieces, living with houseplants, and collections and display. She also offers up styling tricks to use at home and ideas for recycling and reuse. Next, a series of case studies take a closer look at freespirited and creative homes and the people who live in them. From a restored barn on the coast of Morocco to a former parking garage in the Netherlands that's been converted into a flexible family live/work space, Emily shows that any home can have Bohemian Modern style.

Sought-after interiors stylist Hilary Robertson celebrates the stylish simplicity of the monochromatic home — elegant interiors in black, white, and every shade of grey in between. In the first chapter, Living in Black and White, Hilary analyzes successful monochrome interiors, providing moodboards for different schemes. Next, In the Mix takes a closer look at the effective tools of texture, light, and scale and pattern and the roles that they have to play. The third chapter, The Dark Room, visits real homes that feature darker monochrome palettes, while, following on, Let there be Light provides examples of homes with a whiter, brighter approach. Finally, in Monochrome Home Hilary Robertson shows how to bring the look right up to date, visiting the fabulously inspiring homes of artists and designers from Europe to the US.

Organised by fish type, Mat's guide to preparing and enjoying fish teaches you how best to cook with all the varieties of this wonderful ingredient. Whether you are cooking with pink, white, raw, smoked, grilled fish; trying clams, mussels, crab or lobster for the first time, he demystifies the art of preparing and cooking with fish. Recipes include Cured Salmon Gravadlax; Wasabi-crusted Tuna Steak; Squid Ink Risotto; Mackerel Ceviche; Anchovy & Potato Gratin; Trout en Papillote; Vietnamese Fried Tilapia with Crispy Seaweed; Plaice Goujons with Tartar Sauce Dip; Brill Pho; Halibut Steak with Cider Cream Sauce; Thai Fish Cakes; Goan Fish Curry; Seafood Gumbo; Haddock with Bubble & Squeak and Poached Eggs; Oysters Rockefeller; Moules Mariniere; Spaghetti Vongole; Stuffed Razor Clams; Scallops with Chorizo; Crab Thermidor; Kashmir Prawn Curry and Lobster Bisque; as well as a selection of recipes for basic stocks and sauces. Also includes information on simple drinks matches to enjoy, step-by-steps explaining how to prepare fish for cooking and an at-a-glance reference of the names of fish internationally.

In Keep it Simple, Atlanta Bartlett and David Coote present a practical and inspirational guide to creating ahappy and relaxed home that works perfectly for everyone who lives in it. They start at the very beginning, explaining the key elements at the heart of their own unique decorating philosophy, The Simple Mindset, which appreciates good, honest design, values quality not quantity and advocates rediscovering the simplepleasures of life. In Chapter 2: Making it Happen, Atlanta and Dave focus on design essentials such asworking with existing architecture and choosing colour, furniture, fabrics, accessories and details. Finally, inLiving the Dream, they take a tour through every room in the home, from attic to cellar, revealing how easyand enjoyable it can be to put together rooms that are practical yet personal and beautiful, and to create ahome that's easy to live in and easy on the eye.

Be inspired by Igigi's unique textures and natural palette to create your own haven of calm Zoe Ellison and Alex Legendre have created a beautiful shopping and interiors experience with their unique store i gigi — a haven of beautiful gifts and unique pieces for your home. The muted, earthy colour palette is chic and modern and yet utterly timeless, allowing their pieces to fit seamlessly into any home. In this, their first book, they share their secrets and open their hearts as they describe the journey they have taken, what makes them tick, their philosophy, their friendship, their inspirations, ideas and interiors. i gigi is a destination store, selling the idea of a beautiful yet practical and achievable lifestyle. Their interiors feature reclaimed and revamped pieces and rooms that have been created on a shoestring. With stunning photography throughout, this is a truly fascinating look into their world.

Blenheim Palace is one of the most important buildings in Europe, and the only palace in England that is still lived in as a family home. Yet controversy and conflict seethed around the Palace from its very start, thanks to two strong-minded women: Sarah, the wilful first Duchess, who wanted a home fit for a hero, and Queen Anne, who envisaged a glorious monument to England herself and a palace to rival Versailles. As a palace and monument, Blenheim is spectacularly successful. It is one of the finest examples of English Baroque architecture, decorated and furnished to an equally lavish standard, housing works of art from all over Europe. Blenheim, which attracts around half a million visitors from all over the world each year, is one of Britain's most magnificent houses — as George III enviously remarked 'we have nothing to equal this.' But the real story of Blenheim lies with my family, who have lived in it for the past 300 years, and theirs is a story as turbulent, fascinating and momentous as the conflicts that surrounded its origins. The first book about Blenheim ever written by one of the Spencer-Churchill family, Blenheim and the Churchill Family is filled with anecdotes, gossip, and intrigue, tracing the story of a glamorous dynasty from 1700 to modern times. This is the inside story, pieced together from the family archives, showing how the personalities of each Duke and Duchess influenced the progress of the great house through the centuries.

«This invaluable guide will solve the perennial «What to wear?» problem for women everywhere. Starting with the design classic the LBD, with tips on how to wear it and how to adapt it, Tracy Martin ensures you will look the part with Audrey Hepburn perfection. Read on to discover how to wear all your wardrobe well — from all styles of dresses, to suits, skirts and shirts, and even underwear. Choose the right handbags and jewellery to accessorise with flawless precision and finish off every outfit with the right pair of shoes. Whatever the occasion — from workwear to weddings — and whatever your mood, you can put together an outfit with confidence and ease, knowing you have just the right picture-perfect look. This is a must-have guide for every woman, which will enable her to perfect her wardrobe and dress with confidence and style.»

This new stationery range features beautiful photography of vintage bikes. Celebrate the romance and utilitarian chic of life on two wheels with notecards in a tin, paperback journals, flip-top mini notebooks and a mini flexi notebook.

Aromatic, fragrant and spicy, the flavours of the middle east are steeped in a fascinating history of ancient empires and dynasties, wars and diverse religions, and the east-west trade routes, all of which have had a lasting influence on the culinary cultures of this vast and turbulent region. This exciting new book chronicles the essential dishes that you would encounter should you travel these ancient lands — they are the recipes that have truly stood the test of time. Mezze, Salads and Soups start the feast; enjoy Hot Hummus with Samna and Pine Nuts or Broad Beans with Eggs and Dukkah. Meat and Poultry Main Courses include Roasted Meat-stuffed Onions with Honey and Tamarind, while Poached Fish with Saffron Rice is an option for a Fish and Shellfish Main Course. Vegetables and Preserves include Turmeric Potatoes with Chillies, Lime, and Coriander, while Sweet Dishes, Conserves, and Drinks features Quinces Poached in Clove Syrup. With feature spreads profiling the essential ingredients and more than 60 authentic recipes, Flavours of the Middle East makes it easy to prepare an exciting aromatic feast at home.

In her gorgeous new book, sought-after interiors stylist Hilary Robertson reveals a multitude of different ways to style and display the 'stuff of life' — the flotsam and jetsam of possessions, from pictures and ornaments to hats and bicycles, that we all gradually accumulate. In the first chapter, How to Arrange your Stuff, Hilary identifies and illustrates four different approaches to arrangements and shows how each one can be achieved. Chapter 2, Where to Arrange It, considers the variety of display locations available and how to make the most of them, from blank walls to windowsills and tabletops. Finally, in Stories Told by Real Homes, Hilary shares knowledge drawn from the experience of creating interiors that fall into four different styles — Neatnik, Bohemian, Sculpture Vulture and Noble Salvage. Some people are magpies — they love stuff; finding, collecting, and displaying it, while their opposite, the minimalists, are on a mission to contain or tame it. The ideas in this book will appeal to both magpies and minimalists and everyone in between.

Be inspired by this new stationery range featuring Rachel Ashwell's signature eye for detail and her commitment to beauty and comfortable interiors. Photography from Rachel Ashwell: Couture Prairie and Fleamarket Treasures adorns notecards and a notebook, adding the perfect elegant touch to your own home, while helping you stay organized and in touch with friends.

Megan's is a place for all seasons. A cafe and restaurant in London's Chelsea, it could just as easily be in New York's Upper East Side, Beverly Hills or a Mediterranean enclave. Take this magical ambience home with Meet Me at Megan's, a relaxed recipe collection whether you're entertaining a group or a special someone. Just because you're feeling summery and relaxed doesn't mean that your taste buds have gone on holiday. The weather shouldn't be an excuse for throwing any old thing together: it should be the reason why you take extra care so the meal can be a memorable one, so try Lunch Alfresco offerings like grilled squid, chorizo and asparagus salad. Cooking for two lets you really push the culinary boat out, so when Two's Company, get the pans out, light the candles and snub yet another TV dinner watching Traffic Cops! Choose from an irresistible pot-cooked beef fillet with pea puree and hasselback potatoes. Eating is a communal activity, so easy sharing plates like falafel with tzatziki mean that the More the Merrier. Finally, catch up with greedy friends and sit down to a banana and chocolate cake or a plate of honey and oat Anzac cookies at Teatime.

One of the pleasures of married life is enjoying time together at home, cooking good food for yourselves and for loved ones, whether it's friends or members of your recently extended family. If you are both new to cooking, the idea of eating and entertaining together in your new life can be a little daunting. Here is the ultimate helping hand in the form of a truly comprehensive collection of essential recipes. Early Starts and Lazy Mornings provides breakfast and brunch options, while Light Bites and Appetizers are perfect for snacks or whetting appetites before a meal — try Mini Crab Cakes with Chilli Lime Mayo. Just the Two of Us are meals to enjoy together, many of which are speedy to make and so perfect for weekday suppers, such as Beef Chow Mein. Jamaican Jerk Chicken and Deep-dish Meatball Pizza Pie are perfect for feeding a hungry group when you spend fun Weekends with Friends, while for less casual entertaining try recipes from Food to Impress such as Spiced Red Snapper with Chermoula or Fillet of Beef en Croute. Family Gatherings features more traditional dishes that will be enjoyed by all generations — from classic roasts to bites the kids will love. Happy Endings suggests ideas for perfect desserts — from New York Cheesecake to Rose Jelly with Vanilla Cream — while more delicious sweet and savoury treats can be found in Baking Days. The perfect thirst quenchers can be found in Delicious Drinks, while Recipe Basics provides a reference section of essential recipes, such as simple sauces and pastry. Whatever the occasion, this invaluable book will make cooking a pleasure time and time again and its sumptuous production means it will adorn any coffee table or kitchen countertop for years to come.

La Vita e Bella is the perfect gift for all those with a passion for all things Italian and the finer things of life — beautiful architecture, centuries of tradition and fine food and wine. This glorious celebration and distillation of the heart and soul of Italy provides a glimpse inside 15 ravishing Italian homes, from castles to farmhouses, as well as the regions in which they are set. La Vita e Bella also features insightful essays on many of the traditions and characteristics of Italian life, including festivals and customs, regional food and drink specialities, and more. Interspersed throughout the book are recipes for favourite Italian dishes, including risotto, pizza and gnocchi as well as a variety of sweet treats. Also included are quotations from great writers and philosophers, designed to immerse you in the delightful culture and ambience of Bella Italia!

A brilliant book for design-conscious parents and kids alike! Children's Spaces helps you to plan all the practical aspects of children's rooms and provides plenty of affordable ideas and inspiration when it comes to their design and decoration. Judith Wilson looks at rooms for children between birth and ten years old, with chapters on babies' rooms, rooms for girls, rooms for boys, and shared bedrooms. There are also chapters on sensible storage and areas that children and adults share — bathrooms, play areas, eating areas and outside space. Children's Spaces contains a wealth of inspiration drawn from the homes of real families, with real kids, which amply proves that children and great design can happily co-exist without compromising on style.

What better way to unwind after a long week at work than getting together with family and friends for a fun-filled movie night? Choose a theme for the evening, put on your comfiest pjs or most stylish loungewear, prepare some delicious snacks and treats and have fun selecting your best-loved movies. Dinner and a Movie is the ultimate guide to help you enjoy the big screen in the comfort of your own home. With 12 themed movie nights to choose from, this brilliant book is packed with great ideas for hosting the most awesome movie night ever! Each theme includes a list of recommended movies and a matching menu with delicious recipes for popcorns, snacks, dinners, treats and drinks to serve with your movie selection. Enjoy the elegance of the Silver Screen and serve up some delicious classic canapes and cocktails. Give yourself a shock with some Ghostly Cupcakes on Fright Night. Tuck into a some Babyback Ribs with Smoky Barbecue Sauce while you watch your favourite Western movie. Serve up the Godfather's Spaghetti and Meatballs for Gangsters' Paradise. Sip a Perfect Martini along with James Bond and turn up the heat with a Beef Madras on Bollywood night.

From the quirky to the classic, the sweet to the chic, this gorgeous collection of adorable bite-sized treats is a feast for the eyes as well as the taste buds. Whether your favourite is a sophisticated French macaron or a gooey brownie, a whimsical whoopie pie or a melt-in-the-mouth pastry, there is something for everyone amongst these delightful home bakes. Cakes & Mini Bakes features French Fancies in pretty pastel shades, moreish Madeleines, and cute Cake Pops, while a chapter on Cookies & Brownies offers up elegant Lavender Shortbread and sweetly-spiced Gingerbread, as well as an exciting selection of brownies — from Mint Chocolate Chip to Cherry and Coconut. Devilishly decadent Doughnuts & Whoopie Pies add a touch of fun, while Tartlets & Pastries feature classics such as Eclairs, Millefeuilles and Little Maids of Honour. Mouthwatering Macarons & Meringues have a crisp sugar coating with a soft chewy centre; discover flavours such as Apricot and Almond, Salted Caramel and Chocolate and Passion Fruit. And finally, in Marshmallows & Candies find inspiration for cute confections that make perfect gifts, from exotic Turkish Delight to sumptuous Heather Honey Truffles. Easy-to-follow recipes and beautiful photography will inspire you to make the most tempting of tiny treats for any occasion.

The French have a legendary sense of style. French Home explores the elements that combine to create spaces that have an identifiably French feel; showing the architectural details that enhance the framework of each room, the textures and the colour palette that flatter various styles of furniture, and exploring the options for lighting, mirrors and paintings. By exploring real homes that deftly synthesize these elements, French Home examines the sophisticated alchemy of a look that can be either lush and complex, or simple and pared-down.