“Kitchens,” edited by Encarna Castillo (Harper Collins, $24.95) The author of “MXM: Maximalist Interiors” (2003, $39.95) compiled this classic coffee-table book packed with glossy photos of beautiful kitchens most homeowners only dream about. The book hints at being a design guide, which is why a short write-up and the occasional floor plan introduce each section. But in essence this is kitchen eye candy, like a bound cooking magazine meant to inspire ideas. It is a joy to look at, though not ideal for anyone looking for how-to specifics.
– Antonia Blyth
“Designing Blind” premieres Sunday on A&E (Comcast Channel 41)
The A&E Network hatched the perfect program for couples who have trouble editing out his lumpy chair or her beloved stuffed animals. The new make-over show airing at 3 p.m. Sundays finds couples who have arrived at a decorating crossroads and puts their interior-design fate in the hands of Los Angeles über-decorator Eric Brun-Sanglard, who just happens to be blind. Brun-Sanglard says he “sees” decorating in a different way from other designers because he manages to address the fear, trust and control issues that inevitably surface when two people share space. Actress/photographer Alexandra Hedison is also on hand to help with the home transformation.
– Elana Ashanti Jefferson
