A Review: ABOUT DECORATING: The Remarkable Rooms of Richard Keith Langham & A Walk to the Waterfront

Join me on Instagram @the.tartan.topiary
This first book on the esteemed decorator and tastemaker, known for beautiful interiors that are replete with tradition, saturated color, elegance, and Southern flair, will inspire and delight readers.
Richard Keith Langham’s all-American interiors unite a traditional approach with dashes of whimsy, beautiful tailoring, and an exuberant color palette. In this book, Langham charms and inspires with a selection of city and country projects-waterside estates on Maryland’s Eastern Shore and Florida’s Jupiter Island, gracious country houses in Pennsylvania and Connecticut, a grand townhouse in New Orleans, and city residences in New York, Washington, D.C., and Memphis. Langham conjures his own brand of design magic by approaching his clients’ rooms with the rigors of classicism, paired with an innate Southern predilection for pared-down elegance. Signature touches include custom-painted murals, curious antiques, and couture fabrics-motifs that are uniquely Langham’s but that also echo his early influences from working with design legends Mark Hampton and Keith Irvine.
Langham has decorated for a glamorous clientele, including Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis, Pat Buckley, and Hilary Swank. This volume presents his captivating, lush interiors-classic American with a vibrant and pattern-friendly flair-that will inspire design aficionados and fellow interior designers.
Published by Rizzoli - September 26, 2017
Music by: Epidemicsound

[@moinature803]

Just a few seconds of my time to tell you how much I appreciate your videos. They are always a nice escape.

[@thetartantopiary]

You don't know how much that means to me. I'm glad you took the time to let me know!

[@prettylady995]

Love this video and it’s organized and creative approach. Love the opening as we get ready to view another exciting decorating experience….. inviting us to have coffee and a sweet with you and afterwards taking us on a lovely walk of the outdoors beautiful homes and breezes on the water!

[@thetartantopiary]

Thank you for joining me for coffee, treats and a walk. I appreciate your comments, always!

[@karenreiter533]

Mary, I so look forward to the wonderful surprise you provide for us all on Saturdays. You elevate my life every week. Today’s beautiful walk and book review were especially delightful. Thank you. 💕

[@thetartantopiary]

Karen, that is a very thoughtful comment and I appreciate it more than you know.

[@cooperwesley1536]

Watching those stunning rooms flash across my screen reminded me of why I don't watch a lot of "design" channels here on KZbin and why I don't watch HGTV. It seems that most "designers" have forgotten how to design in this modern world... and that really is a sad place to be when you think about it. Again, thanks for another great video that's packed with inspirational photos and ideas. Cheers!

[@thetartantopiary]

Cheers to you, Cooper. Thanks for watching.

[@sherrycatanese4312]

Oh my I’d do more walking if I had such gorgeous places to walk by! The sights & sounds were a wonderful comfort! Blessings!

[@thetartantopiary]

Thank you, I must say, it is a great motivator to have those historic houses and beautiful gardens on my route.

[@mjef3695]

Find lovely places in your area. Nature is beautiful. Go to a neighborhood you’ve never been to and walk around. (Safely).

[@kimberlyperrotis8962]

I enjoy your videos and your cat greeting you at the door made them even better. It’s not a home without at least one cat!

[@thetartantopiary]

I agree. The cat that greets me in the introduction is Roscoe and he is a much cherished addition to the household! Thanks for watching.

[@vickeypierce293]

Loved the book review and the walk was gorgeous

[@thetartantopiary]

Glad you enjoyed it, thanks for watching.

[@MariaReyes-te7lk]

Beautiful decor and awesome walk to see nature at it best.Thank you for your video

[@thetartantopiary]

Thank you, Maria- I always appreciate your comments.

[@robertwessels9827]

Loved this review! Great designer! Beautiful walk!

[@thetartantopiary]

Thank you, Robert!

[@rosariopaiz6158]

Thank you for your time , your garden its looking beautiful.

[@thetartantopiary]

Thank you, I appreciate that. ❤️

[@lindahopkins2381]

Always look forward to your videos! Looking forward to your next video on the book The Art of Outdoor Living! Love any book that captures beautiful gardens!

[@thetartantopiary]

Thank you, I appreciate that. I love a good garden book as well!

[@beckid5107]

Love your weekly vlog!

[@thetartantopiary]

I'm so glad. I appreciate the encouragement.

[@psin0373]

OMG! Not a trend followed--ever! Love that! I'm drooling over these rooms. Your reviews make me want to embrace color more than ever. That incredible orange room featured in the book, comes to mind, for example. Clear that Spring has sprung for y'all. Adore the fuchsia azaleas and the stunning walk to the water. Thanks a million & excited for next week's review & pool drama. All the best!

[@thetartantopiary]

Thank you, the orange appeals to me also, and the funny thing is, I have never been drawn to that color until recently. Thanks so much for watching!

[@psin0373]

@@thetartantopiary Laurel Bern is a fabulous blogger/designer & has some outstanding posts about orange. I, too, am not naturally drawn to orange but after today's video by you and after having read Laurel's thoughts and viewed the images she uses to back up her point, I'm beginning to see the beauty in it. Think Hermes.

[@buickinvicta288]

Lovely as always. You know that I've been watching your bracelets since you began. I collect jewelry. You gave me a good inspiration with your coral. Perhaps do a segment about your bracelets, my favorite. Loved the walk. We have to wait until May for azaleas. It snowed here this morning.

[@thetartantopiary]

I do love all jewelry, but bracelets are my favorite. That is a great suggestion, thank you! May is just around the corner- past the intersection of March and April.😁 Your azaleas will be popping before you know it!

[@elizabethlara4070]

❤ the book review but I especially thank you for sharing your walk. Such gorgeous estates and beautiful gardens! The trees!!!❤ See you on the next review!

[@thetartantopiary]

Thank you, I always appreciate your feedback and comments. The oak trees were covered in resurrection ferns. They grow on the limbs and look dead until a rain and then they unroll themselves like a luscious green carpet.

[@jenh9361]

​@@thetartantopiary I absolutely adore the delights of nature 😊 I patiently await the migration of the Robins... love, love love! I have my mini crew of them who nest and then give the babies their flying lessons, and stay throughout the warm seasons...They are always patiently waiting in the wings when I turn on the sprinkler, in hopes of snagging a plump, juicy worm or two...Oh, the simplest pleasures, bring the most wonderful joys... 😊 I was in Williamsburg last weekend... thought of you as we strolled around the town! Springs a bit early this year...many of our cherry blossoms are in their full regalia! As well as the plethora of Daffodils along the river.

[@prettylady995]

@@jenh9361 How I miss Williamsburg… was married at Bruton and had many visits there…. Love the smells the gardens and especially the museums. I understand the craft house closed….. I hope it still has kept the traditions. I also noticed when they redecorated the Inn they removed some of the most gorgeous furniture and fabrics, colors and drapery only to replace it with more ordinary and modern pieces. I guess everyone has their nostalgia and Williamsburg is mine…. Have been reading some reviews of the Inn’s service and some of the special elegant traditions of serving has been removed. I also have fond memories of the Lodge and huge buffets best food and service wonderful cozy bar room however years ago saw the remodeling and those were eliminated as well. I still need to return, so glad you could enjoy your walk only if I could for a moment!❤️

[@jenh9361]

@@prettylady995 Yes, the Craft House has closed. But, they have a similar experience in what is now called the Brick & Vine, which is located about a half block down on the opposite side of the same street. It's a larger space, that if I had to take a guess, is a combination of the Craft House and the furniture store that was in the rear square. It's all there, just different... I love the past traditions of The Inn... BUT, unfortunately, times have changed to accommodate those less interested in traditional elegance! Sa LA Vie...

[@sheilabarnes8430]

I just ordered this book. Thanks so much! I love your channel and your home is absolutely to die for. Orange kitty is adorable as well.

[@thetartantopiary]

Thank you, that kitty is Roscoe. He is a sneaky little sweetheart! I appreciate your comment.

[@sheilabarnes8430]

@@thetartantopiary Just saw your reply. Roscoe is an adorable name for an adorable kitty. My house is getting full from all the decorating books I'm buying thanks to your channel. You present them so beautifully. I know it's a lot of hard work and you manage to make it look effortless. Thank you!

[@marvellabrown8249]

Your videos are so soothing. I believe your voice plays a huge part. Keep doing what you do.

[@mjef3695]

Love color. What a great book.

[@thetartantopiary]

I love this book too, and I while I can enjoy a trend, I appreciate that Langham doesn't follow them.

[@DLynne222]

Oh yeah right, "just a stroll down to the river." What!! A stroll down to the water near me--while beautiful in its own right--requires snake boots and mosquito spray, even in January!! And "keeping up with the Joneses" takes on a whole different meaning in your neighborhood! WOW! Mansions and yachts, oh my! 😄 I'm just jealous. Beautiful walk, thank you!! I really miss living in "THE South," with all the magnolias, azaleas, redbuds and dogwoods blooming in the spring. You are truly blessed. I am too, just differently. I loved the book too. My library is really growing. Again, I very much appreciate you reviewing wonderful books which are not "hot off the press," but which have proven to remain relevant and interesting for long time. Thank you!!

[@thetartantopiary]

I did take the scenic route, but you've got me on the snake boots...thank goodness they weren't necessary! The first house belonged to the sister of Mary Lily Flagler (Standard Oil Company). Hopefully they will have a garden tour and I'll share that! Thanks for watching and I'm glad you appreciate the older books, as do I.

[@marthahoffmann8674]

Interesting book review. Thank you for showing Camellias and magnificent early Rhododendrons in bloom and absolutely breathtaking pink magnolias !!

[@thetartantopiary]

Thanks for joining me.

[@maureenabray7660]

Your review of decorators and designers books combined with your calm voice has put me in a trance. I'm in St Marys, GA and hope that even the tiniest bit of influence rubs off on me. I enjoyed your videos tremendously.

[@thetartantopiary]

That is a very encouraging comment and I thank you for taking the time to let me know you enjoy my videos.

[@pilarantelo9555]

Exactly what I wanted to tell you. Beautiful and calming. Love your voice and accent. Plus the love of flowers. Thank you.

[@carolpipher4839]

🌱~Beautiful tour! 🌟😉🌱

[@thetartantopiary]

Thanks for joining me!

[@TheFiown]

I just received my MM Post book after watching your video, this one is next on my list ! Many thanks, you do put a lot of work into your videos ! xxx

[@thetartantopiary]

You will love the book about MMP and her collections. It offers a lot of history and insight into her desire and interest for collecting, as well as her business prowess. I loved it. Stay well my friend!

[@missmurrydesign7115]

Enchanting...

[@nancyyonce2906]

Awesome video and best decorating I have seen. I have watched it twice and will again ~!~! Thank you !!!!

[@hergebreaux57]

👀💕 What a treat to see these rooms. I was VERY surprised to see some of the items I also own !

[@sharonchilds3871]

Great book review! Love the serene walk and tranquil water

[@thetartantopiary]

Thank you, this is a lovely book. I'm glad you enjoyed it.

[@traceygartrell3419]

Thank you for your inspiration

[@robertwessels9827]

Magical!

[@JJ33438]

Thank you so much for this video. love the design book and thank you for the scenic tour!

[@willothewispl]

Lovely.

[@marialinares7809]

❤❤❤❤❤ beautiful thanks

[@dulcerush735]

Beautiful book, ❤ Beautiful video ❤ Looking forward to next week.😊 I love your taste in jewelry.

[@thetartantopiary]

Thank you, I do love a bracelet. They always fit, no matter my waist size. 😁

[@lindaortolano7837]

Hello Mary, I so enjoyed today's book review. I could live very comfortably in any one of Mr. Langham's beautifully designed rooms! What a beautiful and peaceful walk to the waterfront. I loved hearing the birds chirping and the waterfront was beautiful. What a charming neighborhood. Thank you for taking us along and I will talk to you in the next one! Have a beautiful day! Hugs! :)

[@thetartantopiary]

Thank you Linda, I'm glad I took the walk when I did because the weather has changed dramatically. It's cold and rainy now. A good day for soup and warm bread. The first house I passed was built by Sarah Kenan, the sister of Mary Lily Flagler (Standard Oil Company). I would LOVE to tour that one! Thanks for taking the walk with me and you have a beautiful day too.

[@rickdejean4649]

Love all your videos, so well done

[@thetartantopiary]

That means a lot, thank you.

[@williama.hovestreydt6623]

Lovely videos I thoroughly enjoy! Thank you of this labor of love your sharing!!

[@thetartantopiary]

Thank you for letting me know. I appreciate your comment.

[@teresavaughan3588]

Enjoyed this so much!

[@thetartantopiary]

I'm glad you did, thanks for letting me know.

[@valescafalqueto5547]

Hi Tartan. I love your videos. Thank you!

[@thetartantopiary]

Hello-I’m Mary and I so appreciate you saying hello and letting me know you are enjoying the channel!

[@2atthemill190]

It's so nice to know someone is enjoying spring. Thank you for giving us a glimpse of what we will be seeing in several weeks. Always look forward to a new book review. Wish we could see even more of each tome.

[@thetartantopiary]

The temps have dropped here, no snow, but we are supposed to have freezing temps the next couple of days. This is March in the south; hot, cold, warm, cold... Thanks for watching!

[@suzieq2493]

We still have snow in the north east so I really appreciate the nature walk!

[@thetartantopiary]

I am seeing video of snow on the news. We are expecting freezing temps next week and I am worried about the buds that are trying to open. Stay warm!

[@suzieq2493]

@@thetartantopiary hopefully all will be well

[@cakebitch58]

We bought this book several years ago at the Historic Charleston Preservation Antiques Show. He was the Chair. We ate good food, saw the Holy City, and bought too many antiques. It was my birthday so whatever,😅.

[@janicekeisler9225]

Hi Mary, So enjoyed this review but especially the walk-the peaceful sounds of nature along with hints of spring color. Your hanging baskets with the deep pink cyclamen and moss are gorgeous! How long do they bloom in your area? Thanks for another informative and relaxing segment.

[@thetartantopiary]

I do love cyclamen. Mine usually bloom well until June. ( I do dead head them, which encourages more blooms) June is when they begin to show stress from the heat. I move them to the shade and stop watering them to induce dormancy. Most of them will begin to bloom again mid-February.

[@winnysneece694]

❤

[@CharlotteFairchild]

I finally made the British Cake! It was easier than I imagined! Could you tell us a decor book with chair and furniture styles? I have hoof legs, Edwardian, Queen Anne, cabriole legs. The oldest furniture is the Dutch hoof legged furniture. I am so curious about my family furniture.

[@thetartantopiary]

Sotheby’s has published several books on furniture identification. Joseph Butler’s “A Field Guide to American Antiques” is good. Those have helped me. Many of the books that extensively cover this topic are grouped by the century in which the pieces were produced or the country of origin and oddly enough the most thorough of these books were published prior to 1980 and often sold as “design reference”. If you can search for a book that highlights Edwardian, Queen Anne or Dutch furniture that may help to narrow your search. Also, a quick “google photo search” or an inquiry to a friendly antique dealer has guided me on valuable information.

[@CharlotteFairchild]

Thank you. I will look for the books you mentioned!

[@AnnaP-qk4qm]

Lovely presentation. Gorgeous book; but I wonder what state you're in, the neighborhood is beautiful.

[@thetartantopiary]

Thank you for watching - I am in Wilmington, North Carolina.

[@AnnaP-qk4qm]

@@thetartantopiary Seems to be just as beautiful as S. Carolina. I've been sharing your podcasts, they are a breath of fresh air, so to speak, and I think the activities and tours are also a nice finishing touch. All the best.

[@judithpresgrove739]

Where do you live? I think you said, Virginia? It is so very beautiful. Thank you for sharing....❤from Georgia 🙂

[@thetartantopiary]

Hi Judith, I am in Wilmington, NC. How are the azaleas doing in Georgia?

[@kimberlyperrotis8962]

In which city is The Walk to the Water filmed? It’s lovely.

[@thetartantopiary]

I am in Wilmington, NC.

[@kimberlyperrotis8962]

I don’t like the faux wood-graining in that one room, if that’s what it is. If it really is the natural wood grain, I would paint it, I don’t think it’s very attractive. The rest is gorgeous, I love the art and other objets d’art he selected.

[@kimberlyperrotis8962]

I love these fresh, but classic rooms from his book. I’ll have to buy a copy, but I need to budget for decorating books, the last one I bought, The English Drawing Room, set me back over $100, they add up fast. My own, Victorian, home is in the English Country Style, and I have a huge collection of books on this style by English designers and decorators. I like this style because it is classic but flexible, so it can incorporate items from different eras. I don’t have anything post-war in my home, MCM is horribly inharmonious with its architecture.

[@thetartantopiary]

Books can be expensive. I often buy slightly used books if I can. They very often are in like new condition but less than half the original price. Thriftbooks, Amazon and Abebooks are good websites to visit.