Author Description

Two design styles perfectly embrace tidiness. One was developed in the United States in the 18th century by a devout sect of Quakers who had emigrated from England, the other was formed over thousands of years on the islands of Japan. Although they have no historical link, the Shaker aesthetic, and that of the Japanese Zen style, have much in common. For them both furniture is kept to minimum, objects are hidden away in carefully designed storage spaces, rooms are kept empty with the focus on a few design elements on the walls, natural materials are emphasised both in the construction of rooms and furniture. Here, for the first time, photographer and author Michael Freeman has brought together numerous examples of rooms from both Shaker and Japanese homes to demonstrate how home owners can be inspired by these two remarkable design styles. Divided into chapters on Lessening, Harmonizing, Containing and Storing, the book guides the reader on a journey of beautiful tidiness. Specially designed cut edges to the book and a removable bellyband give the finishing touches to this little gem of a book. A perfect publication to inspire designers and home owners to bring calm to their interior spaces.