House Beautiful: Country with a Twist

Oh, what would the public library be without its 747 section, filled with those gorgeous books showcasing beautiful kitchens, living rooms, bathrooms, attic spaces, and bedrooms? Though not really too useful in terms of "how-to-do-it," these books have nonetheless been the springboard to new-home design and redecoration since Dolly Madison started thinking about the White House. Hosted by Donna Hanover, this episode of A&E's House Beautiful series visits a handful of glamorous homes, including that of actress Teri Garr, offering several tips and tricks that "help bring a breath of fresh country air into any home." But when these people say their homes are "country," they do not refer to gingham prints, wooden geese on the wall, or rustic clutter; rather, they mean museum-quality folk art, Scandinavian design, and/or spare, minimalist backdrops to showcase early Americana. Or, in Teri Garr's case, an eclectic, cozy mix of styles that resists definition; she was told in no uncertain terms that the checkerboard tile border on her bathroom wall could not be used with the cottage-rose wallpaper in that room, but I loved it (you go, Teri!). Interesting and well produced, this tape is, as I say, not all that practical for the homegrown, one-time designer, but that small detail has certainly never stopped this type of material from circulating with the greatest of regularity. Recommended. Aud: P. (K. Glaser)