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Blink 3 of 8 - The 5 AM Club
by Robin Sharma
The New Elegance summary
Timothy Corrigan
Brief summary
The New Elegance by Timothy Corrigan is a captivating design book that offers expert tips on achieving timeless elegance in home decor. With beautiful illustrations and insightful advice, it inspires readers to create stylish and sophisticated living spaces.
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Table of Contents
The New Elegance
Summary of key ideas
Exploring the Essence of Elegance
In The New Elegance, Timothy Corrigan, a renowned interior designer, takes us on a journey through the essence of elegance in interior design. He begins by defining elegance as a quality that transcends style, a timeless attribute that can be found in any era or culture. Corrigan emphasizes that elegance is not about wealth or luxury, but about creating spaces that are comfortable, beautiful, and functional.
Corrigan then delves into the historical roots of elegance, exploring the design principles of iconic figures such as Elsie de Wolfe, Syrie Maugham, and Jean-Michel Frank. He highlights their innovative approaches to interior design, which focused on simplicity, comfort, and a sense of ease. Corrigan argues that these principles are as relevant today as they were in the past.
Layering and Detailing for Elegance
Next, Corrigan introduces us to his signature approach to design, which he describes as 'layering and detailing.' He explains that layering involves adding depth and richness to a space by incorporating various elements such as textiles, furniture, and accessories. Detailing, on the other hand, involves paying attention to the small, often overlooked aspects of a room, such as trim, hardware, and finishes.
Corrigan illustrates his approach with examples from his own projects, showcasing how he uses layering and detailing to create elegant, yet livable spaces. He emphasizes the importance of balance and restraint, cautioning against over-decorating and cluttering a room with unnecessary items.
Creating Comfortable Luxury
One of the key themes in The New Elegance is the idea that elegance and comfort are not mutually exclusive. Corrigan argues that true luxury is not about ostentation, but about creating spaces that make people feel at ease. He shares his strategies for achieving this balance, such as using sumptuous fabrics, incorporating comfortable seating, and paying attention to lighting and acoustics.
Corrigan also discusses the role of technology in modern interiors, advocating for its seamless integration rather than its conspicuous display. He believes that technology should enhance, rather than detract from, a room's elegance and comfort.
Adapting Elegance to Modern Lifestyles
In the latter part of the book, Corrigan addresses the challenge of adapting traditional elegance to modern lifestyles. He acknowledges that today's homes often need to serve multiple functions, from workspaces to entertainment areas. However, he maintains that the principles of elegance can still be applied, albeit in a more flexible and practical manner.
Corrigan offers practical advice on how to achieve this, such as creating multifunctional rooms, incorporating smart storage solutions, and using durable, family-friendly materials. He also stresses the importance of personalization, encouraging readers to infuse their homes with their own unique style and personality.
Embracing Elegance in Everyday Life
In conclusion, The New Elegance is not just a guide to interior design, but a philosophy for living. Corrigan encourages us to embrace elegance in all aspects of our lives, from the way we dress to the way we entertain. He reminds us that elegance is not a rigid set of rules, but a mindset that values quality, authenticity, and the pursuit of beauty.
Ultimately, Corrigan's message is that elegance is not a luxury reserved for the few, but a quality that can be cultivated and enjoyed by anyone. By understanding and applying the principles of elegance, we can create homes that are not only beautiful, but also nurturing and inspiring.
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What is The New Elegance about?
The New Elegance by Timothy Corrigan is a captivating book that explores the timeless appeal of elegant interior design. Filled with stunning photographs and insightful commentary, Corrigan takes readers on a journey through exquisite homes around the world, showcasing the beauty of classic design principles and luxurious decor. From grand chateaus to stylish city apartments, this book is a celebration of sophistication and refinement in interior design.
The New Elegance Review
The New Elegance by Timothy Corrigan (2021) explores the timeless principles of classical interior design and reveals how to infuse elegance into modern spaces. Here's why this book is worth reading:
- It offers practical tips and techniques for creating sophisticated, stylish interiors that stand the test of time.
- By mixing historical references, personal experiences, and stunning visuals, the book paints a vivid picture of the transformative power of elegance.
- With its attention to detail and emphasis on quality, the book captures the essence of refinement, making it a captivating read for design enthusiasts.
Who should read The New Elegance?
- Those interested in understanding the principles of elegant interior design
- Interior decorators looking for inspiration and techniques to elevate their work
- Homeowners who want to create a more luxurious and sophisticated living environment
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The New Elegance FAQs
What is the main message of The New Elegance?
The main message of The New Elegance is the importance of creating timeless and harmonious spaces that reflect your personal style and enhance your wellbeing.
How long does it take to read The New Elegance?
The reading time for The New Elegance varies depending on the reader's speed, but it typically takes several hours. However, the Blinkist summary can be read in just 15 minutes.
Is The New Elegance a good book? Is it worth reading?
The New Elegance is worth reading because it offers inspiring ideas and practical tips to bring elegance and sophistication into your home. It's a valuable resource for anyone interested in interior design and creating a beautiful living space.
Who is the author of The New Elegance?
The author of The New Elegance is Timothy Corrigan.
What to read after The New Elegance?
If you're wondering what to read next after The New Elegance, here are some recommendations we suggest:
- Happiness by Richard Layard
- The Art of Happiness by Dalai Lama
- Positivity by Barbara L. Fredrickson
- The Happiness Project by Gretchen Rubin
- The Power of Now by Eckhart Tolle
- Savor by Thich Nhat Hanh and Lilian Cheung
- The Antidote by Oliver Burkeman
- Focus by Daniel Goleman
- The Happiness Hypothesis by Jonathan Haidt
- Flow by Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi