Flower arrangements don’t stand alone. They should always been seen as an integral part of an interior decorating scheme. With that in mind, here are reviews of two books that will be of help to floral designers.

Cecil Hayes is among the most influential interior designers today. She has written a number of books. One of my favorites is “Art of Decorative Details-Creative Ways to Design the Home of Your Dreams” was released by Watson-Guptill.

In Hayes’ view, the lifestyle of the owner should be the determining factor in interior design. As the title indicates, the home should be the place where one can live one’s dreams, and that is only possible when the dwelling fulfills our needs. This book is invaluable whether you expect to carry out your own interior design project or work with a professional. This book covers all the basics that you need for a successful project. Hayes devotes a chapter to each type of furnishing or detail.

Floral designers have much to learn from this book. Hayes makes generous use of floral displays for all sorts of purposes. There are numerous examples for every room and area of the home from hallways and baths to bedrooms, living rooms, kitchens, and entertainment areas.

This title is beautifully illustrated with lush color photos. Readers can learn how to choose floral displays that reflect the style of the room and its furnishings.

John Fowler (1901-1997) was by far the most influential designer of the 20th century. With his partners in the firm Colefax and Fowler, he is credited with creating the English country house style. Frances Lincoln has released the ultimate guide to Fowler and his work. “John Fowler-Prince of Decorators” by Martin Wood features 400 lush color photos and watercolors as well as historic black and white photos. This is the very first book devoted to Fowler. It presents lots of material that has never been published before about his projects.

The author explores the influences that shaped Fowler’s life and career. Readers will find in-depth details on each of the individual projects. The profiled projects serve to document the evolution of his signature style over his lifetime. Following his retirement from the firm, he focused primarily on his work for the National Trust. He created designs that provided a feeling of comfort of security that have stood the test of time. The appendix has a list of his published projects.

Fresh flowers and floral designs of all sorts, including topiaries, were one of the features that were used throughout Fowler’s designs. One look at the cover of this book shows that to be the case. Flowers are a signature feature of the English country style. These are used in every type of room from club rooms to libraries and entertainment areas.