I recently read Jonathan Adler’s design book, My Prescription for Anti-Depressive Living.  Say what you will about his mismatched prints, loud colors, and anti-formalism. Adler's vision isn’t just a style, it's a lifestyle.  While I can’t agree with all of his ideas – mixing bold patterns just gives me the willies – I think there are some good ideas to glean from the book.  For example, I love the splashes of whimsy and color Adler prescribes for spaces.  It makes it easier to update a room and is a boon to thrift store treasure hunters like me.

Keep in mind that this book is not a step-by-step book about technique or do-it-yourself tricks or theories.  It’s a fun book about one man’s style that is meant to be subjective and inspiring.  My favorite idea from it: Making silhouettes of the people who live in a home on colored paper, labeling them with the person’s name and then writing a one-sentence description.  Frame and hang up for all to see.  Adler included his dog’s silhouette with the phrase, “Won’t poo in the rain.”  This is clearly a man who appreciates some of the things I appreciate!

Check out My Prescription for Anti-Depressive Living at a bookstore near you or hit up the library.