Relaxed Elegance: Rooms for Living Well

I was stuck between a 4 and 5 star rating, but ultimately went with 5 as the book provided an idea which we have already applied to our home. We wanted to paint our kitchen window to cover the worn oak trim, and neither of the main cabinet colors seemed right (warm white or sage grey). However, after seeing one of Bromley's houses where a window was painted black, it occurred to me that our kitchen island is a grayish black and we went with that color. As mentioned in the book, black does perfectly frame the view and draws the eyes outside to admire the garden, hydrangeas, birds and small animals in our back yard. In our case, the black window is like an extension of our black travertine backslash and granite counters.Otherwise, there are 8 chapters in the book, each representing a different project. Some of the photos have a museum quality to them, making it seem less welcoming, which was why I debated on the 4 point score. Otherwise, the photos are beautiful and the homes are stunning. There are 3-4 pages describing each project, plus an additional page for a specific topic (e.g. mixing pattern, black as an accent, unusual wall finishes, powerful powder rooms, etc.).

Brittany Bromley is such a unique and impressive talent! She truly has an amazing eye for interior design and decor. I would never think to match some of the colors and patterns she does so effortlessly. I’ve been waiting for her book for months, and to say it does not disappoint would be an understatement! I love seeing her style, and with the hundreds of gorgeous, glossy, full page photos, it gives me some really great ideas. It’s also filled with incredible insights to her background, and thought and design process as well. Already can’t wait for her next book!

One of my absolute FAVORITE design books! This is the perfect mix of palm beach and sophisticated New England charm! I’ve purchase many design books over the years and believe me when I say this is one of my favorites that I reach for over and over again

Relaxed Elegance is a stunning visual journey through beautifully designed homes, offering both inspiration and practical ideas for interior decorating. The book is filled with breathtaking photography that captures the essence of stylish, well-curated spaces, making it a joy to flip through.Whether you’re a design enthusiast or simply looking for fresh ideas to elevate your own space, this book serves as a perfect source of inspiration , as well as a gorgeous coffee table book.

I bought this book after seeing a YouTube of Bromley's own house. In particular I wanted to be reminded of the yellow attic bedroom. But each of the several different design projects featured has much to offer in the way of layered colors, textures, furnishings and lighting. Bromley's rooms are beautiful and daring, luxurious and comfortable. The book is both a pleasure and an instruction, worthy of serious study.

As soon as I opened the book, I could see a a style that resonated with my own tastes.Elegant yet not stuffy, floral patterns, lovely photography. I wanted to give this book a 5 but was very disturbed and disgusted to see a pair of tusks being proudly displayed on a fireplace mantel.I’m very surprised the photographer didn’t make a suggestion that they be removed at least for the photo. I am a retired professional photographer and know it’s important to bring up items that may be inappropriate. Maybe this designer stubbornly would have refused. In either event , it’s the designer, not the photographer who is proudly displaying them.What a horrible statement to make.I’m not sure exactly what animal these tusks were from but does it matter? They’re ugly when not on the animal God intended for them to be on.I stopped looking at this book after spotting them but can say I believe I would have really liked what was in it.Why? These tusks don’t look good and look completely out of place because this book is filled with beautiful photos ( I DID look at the rest of the book) and besides the tusks, I love her style.

Bromley’s design style is pure magic—elegant, warm, and effortlessly chic. She has this incredible way of making traditional design feel fresh and exciting, mixing bold colors, rich patterns, and classic pieces in a way that feels both timeless and totally livable. Every space she creates has this inviting, layered beauty—like a home you’d never want to leave. Flipping through this book feels like stepping into a world of comfort, charm, and a little bit of glamour. If you love interiors that feel personal, polished, and full of joy, this book is an absolute must-have!

This is my favorite. A really great and inspiring book. This woman has taste and it’s timeless. I have spent hours paging through it.

Love this book for its beautiful pictures and great style and design. One of my best design books (and I have many).

It’s very nice. I love the images. Closest to me ever getting to see such beauty. Better than nothing :)

Not only is the cover absolutely stunning, but it tells you the exact design style you’ll find inside. Very eclectic and whimsical interiors! A beautiful break from the traditional white boxes you see in some other coffee table books. This feels like more than a book and provides some great inspiration for those wanting to style their home, or even just one room, a little bit outside of their comfort zone and take some calculated risks.