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Roomscapes: The Decorative Architecture of Renzo Mongiardino
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Product Description
This handsome monograph, the first complete presentation of Mongiardino's work, explores his philosophy of space, design, and life itself. Extraordinary color photographs illustrate the brilliant arrangements of objects, art, and antiques and the rich array of textiles and painted effects-- faux wood, marble, and other materials, extravagant full-scale trompe l'oeils-- that epitomize his style. Mongiardino draws from sources that range from ancient Greek, Roman, and Etruscan artifacts to the work of the Renaissance and baroque masters Michelangelo, Palladio, Bernini, and Borromini and to antique fabrics, carpets, and objets; he also adds poetic recollections of important personal and historical spaces and incorporates his view of nature as a collaborator in the design process. Equally important is his ability to reflect the personality and lifestyle of his distinguished clients, whether in New York, London, Milan, Rome, or Paris. The resulting interior landscapes transform rooms into evocative surroundings of startling beauty.
Practical considerations of design are discussed in Mongiardino's own words. He shares his insights into particular spaces-- small or large, study or grand gallery-- and traces the solutions he originated to create them. Through early sketches, impressionistic drawings and watercolors, and detailed photographs, he unfolds the story of each space, highlighting both its particular challenges and the lessons to be learned from its ultimate success as a stunning environment for living.
Product Details
- Amazon Sales Rank: #772012 in Books
- Published on: 2001-05-11
- Released on: 2001-05-11
- Original language: English
- Number of items: 1
- Binding: Paperback
- 208 pages
Editorial Reviews
From Library Journal
"Everything in our lives takes place within a space that surrounds us, therefore within architecture," writes Mongiardino. Thus, the title Roomscapes aptly describes the work of this Italian architect and interior designer, internationally renowned for the creation of dramatic, theatrical interior landscapes. The first monograph devoted exclusively to Mongiardino's work and ideas, this book combines sketches, drawings, watercolors, and photographs of finished interior environments with the author's very readable exposition of his work's philosophical and practical underpinnings. The photography and layout are superb, and even though Mongiardino designs principally for the rich and famous, there is much to be learned here by anyone wishing to explore his approach to design. An indispensable purchase for academic and large public libraries.
- Janice Zlendich, California State Univ. Lib., Fullerton
Copyright 1994 Reed Business Information, Inc.
Customer Reviews
Brilliant Classic Interior Design
The interior architecture and furnishings by this 20th century master are beyond compare by standards of lavish classical design. Mongiardino's background in architecture and stage design are evident in the projects for the rich in Europe and northeastern US. Clients are not named, but all are rich and most are titled, captains of business, acclaimed fashionistas, or leaders of international society. Although the text is in a somewhat stilted English, perhaps a translation from Italian, the drawings and photos tell the story with no detail going unstudied. Mongiardino's influence can be seen today in the work of former assistant Stephen Sills, U.S. collaborator Peter Marino, and devotee architect John Tackett. Highly recommended for those who like classical interiors with an added layer of luxurious decoration.
