«The New York Times called the late decorator Mark Hampton (1940-98) «an icon of American Style» and he was indeed one of the most famous and admired interior designers of the twentieth century, highly regarded for both his versatile design work and his own eloquence and flair. A classic American success story, Hampton grew up in small-town Indiana and went on to worldwide fame. He began his career working for the some of the greatest interior designers of the age — David Hicks, Parish-Hadley, McMillen, Inc. — and later went on to found Mark Hampton, Inc. Known for the tremendous depth and breadth of his knowledge, Hampton refused to be pi into a trademark style, moving effortlessly from sleek modernism to English country and back again. A highly popular lecturer who drew crowds, Hampton was the author of two books on design, as well as a designer of both furniture and fabrics. The book begins with a personal essay on Hampton's life and legacy, which is followed by a comprehensive portfolio of his most important decorating commissions for such clients as Estee Lauder, the Henry Grunwalds, the John Heinzes, the John Kerrys, the Carter Burdens, the Saul Steinbergs, the Prentis Cobb Hales, among others, in milieus as diverse as a Southern plantation, an Irish castle, and a Manhattan penthouse. Also documented is Hampton's work on the White House, Blair House, New York City's mayoral residence Gracie Mansion, and the American Academy in Rome. Rich with original materials, including Hampton's watercolors and gouaches, impeccably researched and intimately written by his widow, Duane Hampton, this is a visual feast for all interiors fans as well as an important addition to the history of interior design.»
