An elegant presentation of interiors for introverts, placing the memorable work of London architect William Smalley alongside buildings around the world that have inspired his practice.
The interiors in Quiet Spaces were made for private contemplation: calm places in which to read a book, listen to music, or have dinner with friends. Showcasing the possibilities of sophisticated, low-key luxury design,this book presents the work of William Smalley alongside a selection of inspirational spaces across the globe that have influenced his practice.
This timely publication speaks to the growing trend for slow and calm living, boosted by a return to focusing on home life thanks to the pandemic. Organized into four themed chapters—Space, Silence, Shadows, and Life—Quiet Spaces reveals the importance of key design concepts in creating quiet equilibrium in Smalley’s practice, as well as in homes, interiors, and architecture more generally. Projects range from Smalley’s work—including his own Bloomsbury apartment and several private residences, frequently in old houses—to inspiring buildings around the world, such as Mexico City’s Casa Luis Barragán, Villa Saraceno in Italy, and Kettle’s Yard in Cambridge.
Newly commissioned photography and interviews with the owners give fresh insights into the experience of living in these exquisite spaces, brought together in an elegant and covetable package that will inspire designers, architects, and anyone with a love of restrained and refined design.
Reviews
British architect Smalley's elegant debut showcases spaces that embody his 'quiet' style… Smalley's minimal commentary, constituting a few brief paragraphs per location, complements the spare designs and leaves the emphasis on the attractive spreads. Despite the muted tone, this makes an impression.
— Publishers Weekly
Smalley's way of treating his inspirations in the book with equal weight to his own work is refreshing and illuminating, revealing shared qualities but also Smalley's enduring fascination with beautiful design regardless of the who, when, or where… The mix results in a monograph that is surprisingly cohesive regardless of the various voices and times, reinforcing the timeless quality of Smalley's architecture.
— A Weekly Dose of Architecture Books
Showcases the work of London architect William Smalley as well as peaceful interiors around the world by other architects who inspire him.
— Detroit News
Contributors
William Smalley
Author
William Smalley is a British architect known for his distinctive design language, which integrates a reverence for tradition with uncompromising refinement. Included in House & Garden's current Top 100 and described in The Times as “one of the hottest architects in the world right now,” Smalley's current work includes projects in the United Kingdom, New York, and the French Alps.
Edmund de Waal
Foreword By
Edmund de Waal is a distinguished potter, with work in many private and public collections. He teaches, lectures, and writes regularly on ceramics.
Harry Crowder
Photographs By
Harry Crowder is a British photographer who has worked with John Pawson, the Financial Times, Zara Home, and Rose Uniacke, among others.
Hélène Binet
Photographs By
