Book Review: Tom Scheerer Decorates

One of my favorite perks of being a design blogger is the fact that every now and then, I’ll get an advance copy of a book I am eagerly anticipating. This happened most recently when Vendome Press sent me a copy of Tom Scheerer’s new design tome, Tom Scheerer Decorates by Mimi Read with photography by Francesco Lagnese. I had heard that this title would be available in September and was really looking forward to it. Then, the September issue of House Beautiful came out with the feature on one of Tom’s recent projects and by then, I was officially dying to get my hands on the book! Luckily, I wouldn’t have to wait long.

They say you shouldn’t judge a book by it’s cover, but in the case of Tom Scheerer Decorates, you absolutely should. When I lifted the jacket of the book, I was delighted to find this stunning cane pattern underneath. So chic! As fabulous as the cover might be, the book itself is fantastic as well. Divided into three sections—City, Country, and Tropics, Tom Scheerer Decorates takes us into Manhattan high-rises, seaside country homes, and beachside cottages that exemplify the style Tom has come to be known for. Sophisticated yet relaxed; bold yet restrained, modern yet timeless, each of the homes featured is beautiful and inspiring. I think Miles Redd may have best described Tom’s style when he said “The thing I love best about Tom’s work is its wonderful polarities. It’s spirited and reserved. It’s exuberant and quiet. It’s never, ever vulgar, thanks to his Yankee understatement, but you always notice it.”

  {The Glamorous Lyford Cay}

{This bathroom features one of Tom’s signatures—Quadrille wallpaper.}

{A Dramatic Hallway Swathed in Quadrille Wallpaper}

{Stunning Staricase Landing covered in Clarence House’s “The Vase”; Part of the Scheerer-Designed Home featured in the September 2013 issue of House Beautiful}

{Modern and Chic}

{You’ll often find a bentwood chair or two in Tom’s projects.}

{Cuban Floor Tiles used as a Backsplash in this Kitchen make a Bold Statement}

{A Beautiful Example of “Modern Traditional” Style—The classic architecture of the room is met with gorgeous chocolate grasscloth walls, traditional upholstered chairs, a mix of modern furniture and art, along with floating bookshelves. It’s such a great combination!}

{Another Example of Floating Bookshelves, this time in a more Relaxed Island Setting}

{A Chic Bedroom}