Two talented designers combine their creative visions--resulting in a magnificent fusion of classic and contemporary styles. How do they achieve this incredible synthesis of the old and new, something so free-flowing and organic, with vibrant touches of ethnic and modern? Here are their inspirations and philosophy, and an intimate view of their process of creation. Watch Ashley's furniture and Allegra's textiles as they evolve in the studio, and how the couple brings together different elements, balances contrasting features, and introduces color, form, and texture. Finally, see the completed rooms and how they fit the needs of individual clients, from a maisonette in London to a large villa in Turin. The challenges of six problem rooms are analyzed and met. The results: sophisticated, enduring looks for the timeless interior and a unique portrait of a very special partnership. Ashley Hicks, son of the late British interior designer David Hicks, and his wife, Allegra, have become a popular and successful design team in their own right. In this book, they examine the historical and cultural influences on their design and show examples of their work with explanations of their approach. The chapter that explains the process and evolution of some of their furniture and textiles makes this book a great addition to academic interior design collections. Copyright 2002 Cahners Business Information, Inc. Used Book in Good Condition