I bought this book on the strength of the reviews...and found it to be a bit of a disappointment. The interiors presented in the book seemed more stark and cold (with a preponderence of blue and little colour for warmth.) There are a few interesting ideas, but not enough for me to recommend it. It was as if the interiors had been shot on the set of an Ingmar Bergman film in the middle of a grey winter day...a bit melancholic and not inspiring. As a contrast, after buying this book (and feeling brave) I bought Ros Byam Shaw's --Perfect English Cottage-- which was an utter delight! Filled to the brim with warm interiors...all very cozy, clean lines here and a bit of quirkiness there-- and filled with gorgeous photos to stir the creative imagination. If you are looking for an inspiring cottage decorating book, I'd go with Shaw's.