The Inspired Home: Interiors Of Deep Beauty

Karen Lehrman Bloch explores the soulful side of interior decoration

CJ Dellatore InspiredHome_JKT_FINAL

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Every once in a while the fruits of an author’s labor brings forth a uniquely substantive and fresh approach to how we view and, therefore, interpret interior design.  Karen Lehrman Bloch, Editorial Director of Grafia Books, has achieved this in her newly released book ‘The Inspired Home‘.

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CJ Dellatore KarenLehrman_photo courtesy of author

Karen Lehrman Bloch

From the moment I first opened my e-book version I was captivated and enthralled by the seemingly unconventional interiors that I was looking at – certainly not the prevailing uber-trends.

When I approached Karen and asked what brought her to pursue such an esoteric perspective on the role of interior design this is what she very simply told me;

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“About 10 years ago I began to pay more attention to the effects certain pieces of art and design would have on me – listening to pieces of music, walking through museums or cathedrals.  These works would affect me not intellectually but emotionally, and sometimes spiritually.  I began to call these works of art and design “deep beauty,” and realized that they all had similar underlying principles, mirroring the essential principles of nature.  I thought, what if we were to create entire homes of deep beauty – imagine the effects on our psyches?!

Thus began a search to find 25 homes, from all over the world – each with a unique aesthetic – that for me felt like an interior of deep beauty, an interior with soul.”

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CJ Dellatore Inspired Home_pg.56-57_courtesy ofVincente Wolf
Designer Cathy Vandewalle’s home in Bangkok, Thailand.  Photo by Vicente Wolf
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With a foreword written by Donna Karan, herself a soulful spirit, we are taken on a journey through many cultures and ethnic styles – both exotic and comfortably familiar.  The focus here is on individuality and serenity.  The homes featured are places of repose, with a true connection to sensuous references in their materials and artistic treasures.
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This very special book elevates us both emotionally and spiritually toward a greater appreciation for a truly humane environment, and not one of artifice and obligatory appointments which can strongly compete with the basic needs that our homes should be providing.
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CJ Dellatore Inspired Home_pg. 136_courtesy of Vincente Wolf
Interiors by Vicente Wolf for a home in Taos, New Mexico
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This volume rejoices in the sensibility of ‘undecorated’ spaces, those that are truly built on personality with an appreciation for the artisanal, and a global awareness of artistry and cultural artifacts.
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CJDellatore Inspired Home_pg.112_courtesy of Nathalie Krag&Taverne Agency
Designer Leoni Smit’s home in Capetown, South Africa.  Photo by Nathalie Krag/Taverne Agency
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Refreshing and uplifting, The Inspired Home is a must have for the discerning individual who can see the forest through the trees.  It illustrates that there is elegance in simplicity, and beauty in everyday objects.

It will make a handsome addition to your design library.

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Written by Carl Lana
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