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Decorating the Way I See It Hardcover – September 30, 2014

4.6 4.6 out of 5 stars 44 ratings

Known for his ability to work in any design vernacular, Markham Roberts brings a fresh approach to traditional and contemporary styles alike. His work is not defined by signature looks or design trends. Rather, using an inventive combination of layered patterns and color as well as bold juxtapositions of furniture of different styles and periods, custom designs, and works of art from around the world, he creates interiors that have been described as "the very definition of chic."

Roberts structures the book as he would a project, taking readers step-by-step through the design process, beginning with the basic interior elements—floor plan and furniture layout, color palette and fabric schemes, furniture selection, and incorporation of objects and art—and moves on to architecture, landscaping, and gardens, showing the important interrelationship between interior and exterior design. Finally, he puts all of the pieces together, using his own country house, a nineteenth-century gentleman’s farm in the Hudson Valley, as an example.

Illustrated with more than 350 photographs of some forty projects, including New York City apartments large and small, historic estates on Long Island, seaside Florida mansions, stately Southern and Midwestern houses, rustic Montana ski retreats, and modern Puget Sound compounds, Decorating: The Way I See It reveals Markham Roberts’s diversity and sophistication as a decorator. Whether working on private projects or for clients across the country, he infuses interiors with his personal, and exceptionally personable, touch.

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Editorial Reviews

Review

"I just saw an advance copy of Markham Roberts' book. It is going to go NUCLEAR!! It may be the best design book I've EVER seen. WOW!!!"―Alexa Hampton

“A total delight. With inspiring imagery, practical information and some amusing banter, you’ll find yourself fully immersed from page one.”―
Quintessence

"A smorgasbord of design ideas from a designer known for his refreshing approach...examples run the gamut of Hudson Valley gentlemen's farm to Montana ski retreat, each showing his personal attention to detail and exquisite skills."―
Serendipity

"Markham Roberts' comfortable approach to decorating and living is a breath of fresh air, and that's what helps to make his book so inviting. It's a book that you will want to add to your design library."―
The Peak of Chic

"Markham Roberts is a master of timeless American style."―
Vogue.com

"It is easily my favorite design book of 2014 as there is so much to learn and to be inspired by in the gorgeous pages of Markham's first design tome."―
La Dolce Vita

"In this age where every top designer feels compelled to publish a portfolio book,
Markham Roberts: Decorating: The Way I See It is one worth buying. Not only is it filled with gorgeous, inspiring photographs, you will find many a designer secret hidden among its pages."―Decor Arts Now

"The diversity, sophistication and exceptional personable touch he delivers project after project is truly outstanding. . . . I know you will adore this book and fall in love with Roberts' work like I have. It's an absolute must have for any design library. Don't pass on this one!"―
Simplified Bee

"Markham Roberts has written and composed a gorgeous book showcasing his work while incorporating meaningful tips and design details. If you are looking to take your decor to the next level, above well planned, this is the perfect book for you. Alternatively, if you're in the market for a coffee table book that will get your guests talking, this is the book."―
Life in Sketch

"I can't help but fall in love with this beautiful book. . . . Diverse, layered, effortlessly chic, sophisticated and inspiring, what's not to love about his design approach?"―
Mix and Chic

"Consider Markham Roberts'
Decorating: The Way I See It THE textbook for furthering your design education. . . . it is one of the most engaging, inspirational, and instructional books in my (large!) collection."―The Pursuit of Style

"The most anticipated book has been Markham Roberts' new book,
Markham Roberts: Decorating: The Way I See It. . . . This book is absolutely amazing and most definitely the best book of the fall 2014 season."―Mark D. Sikes: Chic People, Glamorous Places, Stylish Things

"Within the gorgeous hardback cover Markham pulls the lid back on the often mysterious world of interiors and reveals his process, his thinking and his sharp-witted humor to do his level best to equip you with as much of his design prowess as possible. . . . I absolutely loved this book and feel Markham has cemented his status as design rockstar by rolling out such a terrific design book."―
Frankie Durbin

"[Roberts] gives readers a delicious peak into his decorating philosophy. As it should be, this 'open me, please' book welcomes readers with well-placed color photographs. . . . By showing his and his partner's two homes in varying states of design, and with his honest assessment of not-ready-for-primetime decorating, Roberts should get applause for his transparency, humor, and great talent.”―
Booklistonline.com

"This is a book of beautiful diverse interiors. . . . This is a tome you will want to revisit again and again as a reference for your own projects."―
Pittsburgh Post-Gazette

“Pulling freely from European, American, and Asian influences, Markham Roberts has earned a reputation for synthesizing distinctly daring combinations of color, pattern, and style.”―
Architectural Digest

Markham Roberts: Decorating The Way I See It reveals the stunning results of the decorator’s efforts. From his considered furniture plans to his careful employment of color and pattern, Roberts’s rooms are always successful.”―Elle Decor

“Quintessential design monograph … Required reading … Classicism with a twist.”―
Veranda

“Top New York interior designer Markham Roberts’ Decorating: The Way I See It provides readers with a step-by-step primer of the design process. Everything from how to create a floor plan to demystifying color palettes, fabrics, furniture, lighting and accessories is spelled out. The designer presents a broad diversity of projects in the book, including Manhattan apartments, a ski lodge in Montana and even his own Hudson Valley farmhouse.”―
New York Post

“Hot fall title for your home library.”―
Domino

“Markham Roberts, the high-flying set’s low-key decorator of choice – who recently released his first monograph – creates spaces that are at once modern and traditional, soothing yet stimulating, cozy but cool.”―
Introspective on 1stdibs

“Markham Roberts’ book is a must-see, must have. You will love this book. There is so much education of the eye in here, and with each additional viewing, something new is discovered. This book should be on your list of must reads.”―
Examiner

“Manhattan-based interior designer Markham Roberts is a master at creating modern-yet-traditional rooms. Decorating: The Way I See It is a detailed explanation of his method and design decisions, from floor plans to furniture selection.”―
Manhattan

"It is easily my favorite design book of 2014 as there is so much to learn and to be inspired by in the gorgeous pages of Markham's first design tome."―
La Dolce Vita

“A total delight. With inspiring imagery, practical information and some amusing banter, you’ll find yourself fully immersed from page one.”―
Quintessence

"I just saw an advance copy of Markham Roberts' book. It is going to go NUCLEAR!! It may be the best design book I've EVER seen. WOW!!!"―
Alexa Hampton

“Using a variety of his projects as an example, Roberts helps inspire readers with ideas for their own homes.”―
NY Cottages & Gardens

"A smorgasbord of design ideas from a designer known for his refreshing approach...examples run the gamut of Hudson Valley gentlemen's farm to Montana ski retreat, each showing his personal attention to detail and exquisite skills."―
Serendipity

“What will set Roberts’ book apart from the others is that this is not a book you will want to put up … On the contrary … You will want to display it with the pages open. And each time you walk by it you’ll turn another page to take in such a masterful portfolio reflecting a range of interior design style.”―
Duchess Fare

“It’s just one jaw-dropping beautiful room after another … There’s so much inspiration … I truly can’t get enough … New favorite book!”―
The Zhush

“One of the best design books I have read in years and years HANDS DOWN. I might even say in decades.”―
The Enchanted Home

"In this age where every top designer feels compelled to publish a portfolio book,
Markham Roberts: Decorating: The Way I See It is one worth buying. Not only is it filled with gorgeous, inspiring photographs, you will find many a designer secret hidden among its pages."―Decor Arts Now

"The diversity, sophistication and exceptional personable touch he delivers project after project is truly outstanding. . . . I know you will adore this book and fall in love with Roberts' work like I have. It's an absolute must have for any design library. Don't pass on this one!"―
Simplified Bee

"Markham Roberts has written and composed a gorgeous book showcasing his work while incorporating meaningful tips and design details. If you are looking to take your decor to the next level, above well planned, this is the perfect book for you. Alternatively, if you're in the market for a coffee table book that will get your guests talking, this is the book."―
Life in Sketch

"I can't help but fall in love with this beautiful book. . . . Diverse, layered, effortlessly chic, sophisticated and inspiring, what's not to love about his design approach?"―
Mix and Chic

About the Author

Markham Roberts trained with the renowned decorator Mark Hampton for six years before opening his own firm in 1997. Since then, he has earned the reputation as one of the top decorators of his generation. His work has been published in Architectural Digest, Domino, Elle Decor, House Beautiful, House & Garden, Southern Accents, Town & Country, and the New York Times. He has been named to the AD100.

A leading authority on interior and garden design, Senga Mortimer is Editor at Large at House Beautiful.

Product details

  • Publisher ‏ : ‎ Vendome Press (September 30, 2014)
  • Language ‏ : ‎ English
  • Hardcover ‏ : ‎ 260 pages
  • ISBN-10 ‏ : ‎ 0865653127
  • ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-0865653122
  • Item Weight ‏ : ‎ 4.58 pounds
  • Dimensions ‏ : ‎ 10.25 x 1.25 x 12.35 inches
  • Customer Reviews:
    4.6 4.6 out of 5 stars 44 ratings

Customer reviews

4.6 out of 5 stars
4.6 out of 5
44 global ratings
Inspiring
5 Stars
Inspiring
The cover of the book was just as gorgeous than the interiors inside of the book! Beautiful addition to my coffee table!
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Top reviews from the United States

Reviewed in the United States on November 8, 2014
WOW! Markham Roberts really sets a new high bar for interior design books with Decorating The Way I See It. I am an interior design enthusiast, and have collected a library filled the work of the great architects and decorators. This book is an important addition to my collection and any design library. I have followed Roberts' work for many years, and admire his inventive and non-obvious choices with color and pattern, which go beyond trends and really capture the mood of the place. He also really gets furniture, objects and art, all of which are used in new ways that seem unexpected but just right. His interiors age well, and will hold up over time, unlike the work of so many. There is a wide range of projects in the book, from around the country, and many projects that have never been published before. The photography, by Nelson Hancock, is exceptional, with incredibly beautiful and atmospheric lighting that further brings the rooms to life, in contrast to entombed look of so much interior photography. Along with the outstanding photography, the inventive layout of the book is both useful, taking one through the design process; unexpected, unlike the standard Rizzoli formula; and fun. I have read, reread, and re-reread this book so many times, and am still surprised to find something new at every sitting. Well done!
10 people found this helpful
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Reviewed in the United States on October 9, 2014
Decorating The Way I See It by Markham Roberts is an engaging and inspiring look into the mind and creations of one of America's premier designers. The rooms that Markham Roberts chooses to share with us are fascinating - they are both elegant and welcoming. No two projects are the same, so each page brings new opportunities to be studied and admired. The descriptions of each photograph are concise and insightful; indeed, it is as if we were sitting down together intimately discussing his design portfolio. I am especially enjoying and learning much from the introductions of each chapter which are informative and witty. Rather than a how-to, this book is a look into the creative process that goes into beautiful interior and exterior designs. I have already reread this gorgeous book twice and have gleaned new ideas and admiration each time. I am so inspired and eager to share this beautiful gem that I have already begun my holiday shopping - psst don't tell:)
One person found this helpful
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Reviewed in the United States on October 7, 2014
Decorating the Way I See It is an attractive and engaging book, filled with beautiful images of a wide variety of Markham Roberts’ design projects. Each page is more intriguing than the next, showcasing all of the stunning fabrics, furniture, art, and personal collectibles that Roberts’ brings together in his inspiring interiors. Not only is the book appealing to look at, it is also informative and laid out in a fluid way that is easy to understand. Decorating the Way I See It is the perfect addition to one’s design library, or to have as an eye-catching coffee table book that will surely draw attention when you're entertaining!
5 people found this helpful
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Reviewed in the United States on October 29, 2020
The cover of the book was just as gorgeous than the interiors inside of the book! Beautiful addition to my coffee table!
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5.0 out of 5 stars Inspiring
Reviewed in the United States on October 29, 2020
The cover of the book was just as gorgeous than the interiors inside of the book! Beautiful addition to my coffee table!
Images in this review
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Reviewed in the United States on November 8, 2014
It is a beautiful decorating book suitable for the coffee table. Not surprising that Markham Roberts had earlier training at Mark Hampton's (Alexa Hampton's father I presume) decorating company, I see echoes of Alexa style in his. Maybe his installations are not as fine (you may see the fabric wallpaper are not smooth and with wrinkles), and his furniture pieces are not as fine (fabric covered table is to hide cheap material?), but his strength is in mixing various patterned fabric and accessories. There are flowers/chintz, stripes, batik, ikat, Indian prints, African and they are all mixed beautifully. Personally, I think his green paisely with trim armchair are lovely, and blue and white Indian print table cloth are lovely. Batik with Indian trim works well too. So are the flower fabric pendant lamps in bedrooms. He loves various wall treatment like lacquer, suit cloth such as tweed and burlap for the wall; it's one of the kind. Now and then you see that fresh vibrant green in his decor, rustic/rough/ugly accessories (block of wood, tree stump, wild hog figurines) within a collection of fine wooden furniture and plushly upholstered sofa, not my kind of thing. The curly grey mutt is his I presume; it is all over the place. I'm so impressed with his work on prints I'm looking forward to look for suitable print for my worn down sofa and some suit fabric for the bedroom. I'm not a designer, ID is just a hobby and where I'm living, the options are limited, so good luck to me to find fabrics that will work as well as in his book. There's my 5 cent worth of comment. Nice work.
One person found this helpful
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Reviewed in the United States on July 6, 2016
Wow! I am devouring this book. The rooms are stunning, yet meant for living and seem to reflect the client. There's nothing contrived. So many of these room will stand the test of time. This will not only be a go to book for me, but one that is on the top of my list of all time design books.
5 people found this helpful
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Reviewed in the United States on October 14, 2014
"Decorating the Way I See It" is artistically rendered with detailed and provocative never-before-seen photos of Markham Roberts' work. No design book has a more wide-ranging documentation of interiors by one designer. An added bonus? Markham's writing is witty and crisp and further elevates the content --> not just a book of pretty pictures. He brilliantly illuminates his vast portfolio of work in this treasure of a book.
3 people found this helpful
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Reviewed in the United States on October 7, 2014
Wow! The most beautiful, inspiring, and helpful design book out now. This book is filled with fresh and inspiring interiors, each one uniquely sophisticated and perfectly layered. The textured python cover beneath the books jacket make this the most chic coffee table book I have ever seen! Such a great gift.
5 people found this helpful
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Top reviews from other countries

Sheherazade
5.0 out of 5 stars a really good interiour design book
Reviewed in Germany on September 12, 2016
This is actually a very good book. Not only does it Show a very intersting mix of ecclecti, slightly ethnical and traditional styles, but is also very nicely written. I do think one can recognize his style though (some people wrote that it is always completely different), but I think this is a good thing. A designer out to have a signature style and is recognizable, or at least for me. I can recommend the book to all interiour design fans who love the bit unnusal and creative style!