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In her new book, internationally renowned design and style authority Melissa Penfold turns her attention from the basics of interior decorating to demonstrating what a powerful force design can be in boosting our physical and emotional well-being. Each chapter is devoted to an aspect of healthy, life-enhancing design, including “Ease,” “Flow,” “Light,” “Nature,” “Timelessness,” and “Awe.” All underscore the importance of introducing lots of natural light; using natural, non-toxic materials (clay plaster, timber, stone); incorporating nature into our homes, whether through views of the outside world or by filling our interior with plants; creating lots of storage (mess is stress); and recognizing the power that color has on our state of mind. Illustrating each chapter are photographs of beautiful rooms in homes around the world by top creatives like Steven Gambrel, Veere Grenney, Victoria Hagan, Peter Marino, Daniel Romualdez, Bunny Williams, and many more that embody the salutory properties of Natural Living By Design.
A longtime design columnist for the Sydney Morning Herald, former interiors editor for Belle magazine, and contributor to major publications, including Vogue Living, House & Garden, Marie Claire, and Harper’s Bazaar, Melissa Penfold has been crowned “Queen of Style” by the Australian media. With more than 30 years of published work to her credit, her trusted voice has made her one the most influential interior names on instagram, with a hugely popular website, (melissapenfold.com), and newsletter. Her first book, Vendome’s Living Well by Design, has been widely acclaimed. She lives in Sydney, Australia.