There's something magical about walking into a space that feels just right—where every object has purpose, every color complements, and every texture invites you to stay. That's the feeling Athena Calderone captures in Live Beautiful, a book that goes beyond surface-level design to explore how our surroundings shape our lives.
Many of us struggle to create homes that feel authentically ours. We're drawn to beautiful rooms in magazines but don't know how to translate those ideas into our own spaces. Live Beautiful solves this by taking you on an intimate journey through the personal residences of creative professionals—from interior designers to fashion tastemakers. Each chapter reveals the initial spark that ignited their design journey and shows how they've crafted spaces that reflect their unique personalities.
What makes this book special is its dual nature: it's both a stunning visual showcase and a practical guide. Calderone doesn't just present beautiful spaces—she deconstructs them. You'll learn why certain combinations work, how to layer textures thoughtfully, and how to create vignettes that tell your personal story. The book includes Calderone's own residences, giving you an insider's look at how she applies her design philosophy to real life.
Each design concept comes with "why it works" insights and resource suggestions, making it easy to apply professional techniques to your own space. Whether you're looking to refresh a single room or undertake a complete transformation, you'll find concrete ideas that respect your budget and lifestyle. The photography by Nicole Franzen beautifully captures the essence of each space while Calderone's writing provides the context that makes these concepts accessible.
At its core, Live Beautiful is about more than just decorating—it's about creating environments that nourish your spirit and enhance your daily living. When your surroundings reflect your values and aesthetic sensibilities, you naturally feel more comfortable, inspired, and at peace. This book helps you understand that beautiful design isn't about perfection; it's about intention and authenticity.
Whether you're a design enthusiast or simply someone who wants to create a home that feels like a true sanctuary, Live Beautiful offers both inspiration and practical guidance. It's the kind of book you'll return to again and again, each time discovering new ways to make your space uniquely yours.
