Folly de Grandeur: Romance and revival in an English country house

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Review ------ ‘This is a pleasurable book about pleasure. The literary style is mellifluous and intelligent. For those not lucky enough to know this wonderfully engaging man, this book about his equally engaging house is the next best thing.’ 'In one of England's most entrancing little buildings, King Henry's Hunting Lodge, we are treated here to a mere fraction of the Haslam decorating vision. Photographer Simon Upton has visited in all seasons, his sympathetic lens resting on this and that of note; Nicky's text and explanatory captions accompany, the touches of DIY included. The result is a compelling room-by-room tour.' 'This book examines in lingering close-up the beguiling dream world he has created, faithful to what survived of Fowler's post-war schemes, embellished with his own bravura flourishes, a sophisticated Lilliputian elegance he dismisses airily as 'hodgepodge'. This celebration of a much-loved house includes titbits of decorating advice. For all its practical inspiration, however, this book is unabashedly escapist - and all the better for it.' 'This book examines in lingering close-up the beguiling dream world he has created, faithful to what survived of Fowler's post-war schemes, embellished with his own bravura flourishes, a sophisticated Lilliputian elegance he dismisses airily as 'hodgepodge'. This celebration of a much-loved house includes titbits of decorating advice. For all its practical inspiration, however, this book is unabashedly escapist - and all the better for it.' 'In one of England's most entrancing little buildings, King Henry's Hunting Lodge, we are treated here to a mere fraction of the Haslam decorating vision. Photographer Simon Upton has visited in all seasons, his sympathetic lens resting on this and that of note; Nicky's text and explanatory captions accompany, the touches of DIY included. The result is a compelling room-by-room tour.' ‘ This is a pleasurable book about pleasure. The literary style is mellifluous and intelligent. For those not lucky enough to know this wonderfully engaging man, this book about his equally engaging house is the next best thing.’ About the Author ---------------- NICKY HASLAM is one of the UK’s most celebrated interior designers. Since 1972 he has transformed homes and spaces for high-profile clientele including Rod Stewart, Ringo Starr, Charles Saatchi and Rupert Everett, as well as designed some of the ritziest parties, including events for the Prince of Wales. His decorating ethos of traditional comfort lends exquisite elegance to interiors, and all the hallmarks of his style are evident in his own country home. Simon Upton is a photographer speing in interiors and portrait photography. He has contributed to many books and his work appears in Vogue, Tatler, World of Interiors, Harpers and Queen, House and Garden and other publications.