A Review of: Carolyn Westbrook: The French-Inspired Home - Master the Art of French Interior Design

Learn how to master the art of creating sleek, elegant, and chic French interiors with Carolyn Westbrook’s The French-Inspired Home.
“The French Inspired” has become Carolyn’s own signature style. Her stunning plantation house, a sleek urban apartment, and a classically elegant town house showcase a variety of distinct styles that will leave you enamored with all that is French. Whether she has used a distressed and gilded mirror that oozes elegance, or a faded and frayed rug that exudes rustic charm, her ideas are quintessentially “French” in their inspiration. Taking cues from her time growing up in the US, Carolyn infuses her earliest memories into everything she styles. From the chic elegance of New Orleans to the sweeping romance of southern plantation houses, Carolyn always produces the sense of a truly timeless French-inspired interior. Priding herself on these classic and timeless interior designs rather than reflecting the latest trends, she hopes they ignite longevity and a true romance with your own home. The French have mastered the art of this time-worn, yet sophisticated, style of living, and you too will fall in love with the colors, the textures, and the inspiration that is truly French.

[@rosiesalinas9375]

I finally found my style I’m obsessed with vintage objects with old souls

[@anitapopella2153]

This book was just eye opening. I wish we would adopt the philosophy of restoring old buildings in this country like they do in France. It is so inspiring to view the past through these structures. We could learn so much. Thank you for reviewing this lovely book.

[@kayisenberg7475]

I am so visually inspired and my eyes fill my heart with French country style i could not love it more or get enough with Carolyn Westbrook i can fill my eyes with more❤

[@susanhunter1164]

I love decorating books. My home is done French Country and I can't get enough of looking at books with that style. Hope I win and thank you so much.

[@lmjo2980]

She has always been my favorite designer!! Thanks for sharing!!! I love your little witches!!

[@davidshep45]

I can't express how much I am enjoying your channel. The book reviews are invaluable. There is nothing worse than ordering a design book only to be disappointed. It's wonderful to actually see inside a book before purchasing. Your calming voice is like therapy. I also love the diy projects and decor ideas incorporated at the end of each video. Wonderful channel and host.

[@gaslitworldf.melissab2897]

Congratulations. Enjoy. (I agree with the entire comment).

[@suzyzavala6628]

This is the most beautiful esthetic! I would love this book!!

[@priyap1302]

With a voice like yours, you should have your own podcast.....your voice makes me happily cry for some reason 💞💓❤

[@suejoegiachero2199]

I thoroughly enjoyed your review of Carolyn Westbrook’s book! The adorable witches were a treat!

[@ambercochrane5594]

Oh the french inspired home ,makes all my worries go away. I think that is why l love decorating so much, it is an escape from the world

[@pattiburke867]

This book speaks to my soul. I was finally able to visit France at age 70 and have styled my home to reflect my love of French decor

[@MaryKayAbblett]

Love Carolyn Westbrook and her books and especially her cookbook. I am French and her style is my style.

[@cindym6065]

Your videos bring so much happiness to my life. I love books and have always enjoyed designing. Your channel is perfect for me. Each of your videos is a wonderful gift. Thank you.

[@pamcornelius9122]

My favorite part of this video was your stories about Halloween and the glimpse of your beautiful house at the end. I live in Georgia so I’m definitely looking forward to your next video!

[@phyllisgehringer5445]

I enjoy all your videos. Your voice as you do the reviews of the books is always at the perfect pitch. I love your book choices. Thank you for choosing to do this. It is a pleasure to listen while I drink a cup of tea. Have a sweet day💐

[@debrahalcrow1933]

Carolyn Westbrook designs are full of texture and feeling of French Style. Style is intriguing. Thanks for sharing this book and designer with us.

[@vintagewidow]

I LOVE those witches! I’ve seen the ghosts in the past…but this is the first time I’ve seen witches. Now I know what to do with a HUGE amount of black tulle I have leftover from a sewing project years ago…🧙‍♀️ My youngest daughter was born on Halloween…and as she told her kindergarten class she’s a “punkin” not a “witch” 😉

[@esimon8901]

I am so glad I found your videos ! Your presentation of The French Inspired Home had me humming La Vie en Rose ! What a treasure this book is. Thank you for a taste of the French style that I adore. Cannot wait for your next video ! Best, Eileen 🌸

[@cynthiajones823]

This book is classy, inspiring, and relaxing all in one. The combination of the old and collected creates an atmosphere of calm, which is easy to live with. Thank you for reviewing this work of beauty.

[@rondagrow5762]

What a beautifully done book of inspiration, I absolutely love it.

[@gingergaubert5039]

Mary, thank you for reviewing The French Inspired Home. I have enjoyed all of your book reviews, but this one was especially interesting to me because I like to think of our own home as a French Inspired Home. My husband and I are both of French decent and we both grew up in Southwest Louisiana which is steeped in French culture and traditions. 40 years ago my husband’s job took us far from home. This southern girl brought her love for the south and especially all things French with our family through 5 states and 8 homes! I love design and enjoy your book reviews so much. I love to get a cup of coffee or tea and sit quietly to watch them. I tell my husband that I’m going to Dreamland. Listening to your sweet voice and watching the beautiful images brings me a little slice of peace and joy! I really appreciate your personal messages following each review. Thank you for sharing the books and a little bit of your personal life with all of us!

[@ginajones1535]

Vintage French style has a very elegant and warm feeling to me. It is classic. Carolyn's book is full of interesting and beautiful Vintage French decor. I love it! Thank you for another wonderful video! I look forward to each one! 😊

[@gwynrosser459]

What a wonderful book. I’ve watched this video a few times now just to soak it all up.

[@ricosuaveon2]

Of all the books you've reviewed, this one is my favorite. It truly speaks to my soul.

[@christinecarroll543]

I’ve greatly enjoyed your channel as I’m an avid collector of decor and design books. On occasion I buy one online and am disappointed in the content. Your channel has allowed me to enjoy a comprehensive review so that I can be confident when I purchase the book. I appreciate your efforts on our behalf.

[@anacrowe5366]

I would have to admit I am old soul and so appreciate items that are handmade and stand the test of time. We must be kindred spirits on the scary Halloween as I don’t like anything scary. Here in Florida we have the most enormous Skeltons (some almost 2 stories tall ) appearing everywhere.

[@judithallen8091]

Having always been a francophile (majored in it in college almost 60 years ago), I luxuriated in your images and review. I am 3 weeks out of hospital having had the first of two total hip replacements - next one in three months, coming back to life and binge-watching your vlogs. Like your content and your effervescent spirit. Age is a style, a wisdom-factor, but after all, only a number. btw, you look great in shorts!

[@jomcdivitt9303]

Aunt Dee Lafayette transformed a little Mississippi niece into a Francophile at twelve years young. Due to her tender love and devotion, I left 7.5 narrow footprints all around France when I flew in the golden age of flying as a stewardess. Before I hop into my threadbare Porthault sheets in my 1850 Carpenter Gothic home in a small Miss. town~Merci Beaucoup for your review and Bonne Nuit, Jo

[@kathyblatchford3608]

Beautiful and calming …perfect in our fast paced world. So comforting and inspiring.

[@gracedouglas9601]

I enjoy your videos. This one moves “travel to France” up on my bucket list.

[@anitarodriguez-rudell2211]

Your six (6) little hand held witches are classy and classic, as time honored decorating.

[@kimgoranson9954]

I have helped my mom decorate Country French since I was 16. Mom passed away 4 yrs. Ago. With $$ she left me we retired & bought outstanding E. Faye Jones home. Restoration Hardware furnished home & it was like living in a museum. I am 62 now. 2 yrs later we were offered a LOT of $$ for historic home. WE COULD NOT BUY ANOTHER OLD TUTOR HOME FAST ENOUGH! We can’t wait to live Country French decor again! It feels like home💝. I need that book to decorate new home. 🙏🏻. My majolica & transferware collections are coming out of storage!

[@margueriteryan3550]

I adore French Country decorating!! My house is decorated in French Country and most pieces of furniture and decor come from thrift stores, garage sales and estate sales. I have painted quite a few pieces too. I’m so excited that French Country is back in style!!

[@tinafehr8394]

I’m so inspired by the French way of decorating. I too love the old, patina metals, books and vintage linens. Love a collected home, with items that tell a story. Love your channel.

[@loridiveglia565]

Oh my goodness, I LOVE the hand holding witches!!

[@elviscobb5922]

I have visited France many years ago. I do enjoy the French style of decorating mainly outside my home in the garden areas. Attempting to decorate in the French style inside the home appears simple and straight forward until you actually attempt to do it. I can see how referring to this book before you embrace this style of decorating as you need a trained eye in order to pull off the look without making areas of your home appear shabby.

[@rustygatecottage9061]

I dream of seeing France some day. I love the French style and have been collecting and studying their design for awhile now. This book would be such an inspiration and great to have.

[@dartlanddunbar5842]

Your little witches are adorable! I prefer happy Halloween. Never have I liked haunted houses or scary movies, cinema, since we're admiring French style. I lived in Lyon in my twenties and loved everything she had to offer. 🙋‍♀️

[@vcgreer]

Wonderful review! I have this book and a couple of others by Carolyn. I had to retrieve this volume from my bookcase to peruse immediately after listening to your review. I love this niche you have created of reviewing design books. So far we have very similar book purchases.

[@lisaoloughlin6476]

I love your witches holding hands, very precious, but I bet they are spooky!!!! Love understated style and book! Thank you

[@gaslitworldf.melissab2897]

This year, I decided to build a small collection of decor books for a makeshift library in my one bedroom apartment. I've only been to France once, but fell in love with Monet's rural estate, not Paris, not even Versailles. So this book speaks to me. I've been dreaming of Monet's kitchen since 2000 or so. Best of luck to everyone. Fingers crossed.

[@cherylmccorkle9715]

I love your channel! My book collection has really grown since I started watching! I think The French Inspired Home will be my next purchase!

[@andreaward1382]

Carolyn's French style exudes class & charm. Her book would be a most welcomed addition to my collection of design books. LOVE the 6 little witches holding hands!!!

[@Jecaisa]

I absolutely love French design!

[@teabibber]

Thank you for giving us a peek at your own house and decorating along with the book reviews. You have great taste and I love the little witches

[@karenpelizzari4404]

I would love to go to France, being raised by my grandparents you see very old things, tattered and worn but with such a lovely patina. It has caused me to see the beauty in old antiques. France is filled with them, you are blessed that you got to go! Love your channel! You are warm and not stuffy, and give us a chance to experience the greatest books, most of us can't run out and buy so we enjoy them because you are doing this. I look forward to watching your channel every day. I am convinced we could be great friends lol. Thanks for working so hard on it. Loved this book!!

[@crowquilltarot]

Another beautiful tome...thank you for your sharing. Every home needs a little French, whether it's the main design aesthetic or an accent here and there, as it is in my home. And I have always said that I don't like Halloween decorations, but I do like your sweet little witches! Like French Country decor, they add a mysterious feminine comfort.

[@marybethbennett5787]

Oh my gosh!! I ♥️ this inspirational book! I’m so fortunate to have recently found your videos. Please continue highlighting these wonderful treasures!

[@dianakrinke3962]

My eyes were opened to the textural elements of French design. Thank you!

[@shirleyprescott1528]

My mother was a French war bride. Now that I live in the country I am always looking for ways to decorate with a French Flair.! Your videos put a pitter patter in my heart! Thank you for making these videos!.... They are All an inspiration in my Life!

[@britori1481]

I enjoyed this video- such beautiful pictures. I haven’t heard of Carolyn Westbrook so it was a nice introduction. Loved the witches in your yard. I decorate for fall but not for Halloween now that the kids are grown. You’ve inspired me to at least do a little.

[@DLynne222]

I think I already have this book (I know I have some of her books) so don't consider me for the drawing. Just wanted to say I enjoyed the review very much. I truly love the '"casual elegance" of French style. Thank you!

[@joymoore7934]

Hello again Mary, I have just watched this lovely review again. My daughter will be in France in a few weeks to visit the Somme where my grandfather fought in WW1; this is her second visit to France, this time she will leave the last red poppy bought by my late brother on the ANZAC memorial as a tribute to the Kiwi soldiers . As you page through the book, there are a number of vignettes that seem familiar, as I have embraced their essence in my home, placing cherished pieces inherited from my late grandmother, mother and brother. This is one of my most favourite reviews and TTT certainly a most looked forward to weekly treat. Thank you for your thoughtful presentations, your kindness shines through each one. God bless you Mary for the peaceful moments we watchers enjoy in a very rapidly changing world, Joy

[@thetartantopiary]

You made my day and I thank you for the very thoughtful comment!

[@virginiagallegos1379]

Good morning from IL. I always get so inspired from all the beautiful books you tell us about. Whether they are contemporary, traditional, modern. However today with the georgous book by Carol Westbrook was the show stopper for me. I've always been a huge fan of the French decor, especially country French. Carol with her latest book has knocked it right out of the box for me. Just when I thought I had my home done exactly the way I wanted she prove me wrong with all her beautifully illustrated pages in her book. However what really made my day was those adorable witches you placed in your yard. May I ask how you came about them ? Totally in love with them.

[@susanhonkoski7706]

You and I feel the same about the scary aspects of Halloween!!! But I do love your witches!!!! As always, I so enjoy your channel and wish you all the best!!! 🙋🏻‍♀️🌼🫖🎃

[@karlam7253]

I have followed Carolyn Westbrook and love her design styles. Living with aged finds makes a home feel cozy and welcoming.

[@doreenthomas4042]

I really enjoy watching your videos of all the beautiful books you review. I’ve purchased some of the books and love them. Thank you for doing what you do.

[@lindawatts5260]

Omg❤ this is my favorite book by far. Beautiful style I want in my home . It’s on my wish list for sure . Love your voice it’s so calming along with the music . Can’t wait for the “not so scary gardens” video. Maybe you will choose me for this book give away? 🙏😍

[@meridabowes3796]

I recognized a clock that I have in our home in one of the picutes. My great grandmother was French but I don't think the clock was hers but now I am curious about it. Great video! Thank you for sharing your library with us! 🇨🇵

[@shirleystarling7300]

French provincial and country is my favourite design. I love that you can add to it very easily, thrift shopping is a thing I love to do and can find objects that fit right in. What a wonderful book. Can’t wait for the next one.❤

[@robbinstephensyork8864]

What a Beautifully Inspiring Book.....LOVE it.....I would Love if Humans had a Deep Affection and Appreciation for each other as We age...like those of us that feel that way about aged objects........sharing bits and bobs of your childhood memories is really enjoyable for Me....I adore sharing and hearing sweet Memories.....I am not one to decorate for Halloween...it has never been a Day I liked in the least....but, I LOVE your little coven of witches with the pumpkin.....now, I may consider creating a coven of my own to put out every year...start a new Tradition....and give the Coven a very Humorous name for all to see......Thank You for doing this video....AND for the inspiration .....✌️💜💋

[@beverlyw5011]

I am a true lover of all things French. Reading and collecting to bring the beauty of France into my home. Thank you for taking me on a special guided tour with the help of the talented Carolyn Westbrook.❤️

[@jillianhardie70]

Stunning love the authentic ageless beauty the french have in every form thank you

[@DianaFlores-xu2em]

I love the French style , thanks for this review. And let me tell you that your voice is so soft and pleasant.

[@sherrycatanese4312]

What a beautiful book. One of the pictures had the same toile fabric I used in my living room & it thrilled me as I watched the book unfold. Like the French, Italians also value the old buildings & artifacts. That’s what causes an ease to their decor that invites us to look & enjoy & feel the comfort of a time passed. Another “gracious living” book…many thanks!

[@karenthesheepgirl1909]

I live in a 30 year old mobile home in central Florida. I have tried to decorate it in the french country style and I'm getting there. We just had a major hurricane come through and that kind of got me down and not too motivated but then... I found this video. Ideas on every page. So beautiful. Thank you for all the beautiful images.

[@barryhonsel4992]

💁🏾I love that book: The French style has always inspired me. Ann Honsel

[@deathcouchma3025]

I love your little witches, so cute and innovative❤ In England we’re only just getting in to decorating and dressing up for Halloween ( probably for the last 20 /30 years😂) but definitely getting more into trick or treating. When I was a child we used to do duck apple with apples hung on strings from the doorway or in the kitchen sink. We carved swedes (turnips) into lanterns, I’d never seen a real pumpkin except on b/w tv, and my older sister and brother told scary stories by candle light and hold a torch under their chin. 🤣 My children had or went to parties but never to different houses for trick or treat. Now I look like and old witch with my long grey hair, I think they’d be too scared to knock at my door😅. Now even though I’m knocking on a bit, I still love French decor, suits my style, old and distressed! The book is fabulous, I’m going to look it up on amazon Uk. Thanks for the reviews 😊. Btw, I love your voice and accent ❤. Best wishes, Phyl x

[@silvergirl7810]

I hate to say it but I’m starting to look like an old witch too- it happens. Here in America my dad used to make a huge bonfire with the other neighborhood kids and dance around it like banshees chanting who knows what in their costumes they hand made- they also would receive things like cupcakes, fruit, cider when they’d trick or treat- that was back in the 40’s- they’d never do that now but he has fond memories of it. I love Halloween but I seriously couldn’t afford to buy candy this year and pass it out as it was like 12 dollars a bag thanks to Biden 🙄

[@thetartantopiary]

Thank you, I appreciate your comment and the shared memories!

[@tandyflynn5646]

I enjoy all ur videos. Thanks for the great interpretations of these beautiful books 😘

[@lorrainelabonne-storch9197]

Another inspiring review. Thank you so much for featuring these very talented designers. The French have a reverence for history and understand that structures and places and objects can have a story to tell. We should all develop such an appreciation.

[@ValentinaStJohn-cv6fu]

All of your videos are so thoughtfully done and so much appreciated.💗

[@hhess2975]

Love love this book! What a great view of French and Southern living.. lots of these looks in Alabama Homes…

[@janm9855]

Hi. I’ll soon be purchasing a 25 year old house. The bones are great, but already I have started to sketch ideas on how to make this home more me. Bookcases, shutters, time worn furniture and tons of candlesticks. This book represents the feeling I’m drawn to. The warmth and casualness engulfs me. The old world and French have a way of saying I’m home. ❤ I would truly appreciate being considered to receive this copy.

[@Beautiful131313]

I Luv All your book reviews and would luv to buy each and every book‼️💜💜💜

[@mechesteinhauer7347]

I really enjoy your blog ! What a wonderful book

[@paularay658]

Stunning Artistry, luv the book. After reading all the comments of passionate lovers of French Country living, I thought how amazing it would be to be able to tour each of these ladies homes, too. When I was growing up, our town would have an annual home tour of our grandest home in town. What a privilege that would be!!!! Just the thought makes my heart sing.🤩❤🌹

[@mkultra11]

I look forward to watching each and every one of your videos with the calming sound of your soft beautiful voice . You help me escape after a long work day and the hectic daily pressures. Your videos bring calm ,serenity , hope ,and beauty in these dark ugly times of our scary world . Thank you for your inspiring videos that are full of ideas that I can incorporate in my sanctuary.

[@wjm6749]

This book is very special. I just started watching the chateaus in France renovations and how they furnish them. Thank you for the video.

[@emelless5365]

Thank you so much for showing the french intreriors in this book.The style is timeless and relaxed, but never boring.I am drawn to french style,it is so elegant.

[@teamarshall1009]

I absolutely love your channel. I love interior design books so we are a perfect fit. This book is so inspiring. Keep up the good work and I wish you well and great success. Tea

[@emiliebova]

Love French country style.

[@vivienmcnaul109]

I enjoyed yet again. Sweet memories shared. I'm not fond of horror either. Love the witches, simply fun for the season.

[@lorimeidinger3752]

Thank you for sharing this wonderful book! Your witches are adorable.

[@theresabyrd4122]

Another great review. I've never heard the French style described this well before. Very inspiring and somehow relaxing. Thank you!

[@dn5582]

Another great review and love the style so much. It is hard to mimic but I do get inspiration from it. Love the sneak peek into your home also. Love your channel.

[@christyrussell596]

Bonjour! I visited Paris a few years ago and I am still enamored of the architecture and culture. I’m trying to learn French too, as I am determined to go again!! I feel so lucky to have been able to see Notre Dame before it burned down. The detail on that structure was indescribable and there is no way they will be able to recreate it in my lifetime. I’m just a housewife outside of Nashville, TN but I’ve never been in awe as I was in France! Thank you for giving me another glimpse of French decor. Delicious!

[@arlenecal]

Your channel Charolotte is all inspiring and beautiful at every frame. How lucky we all are to have this to enjoy while at the comfort of our own homes as we sip our morning coffee, tea or evening cocktail. I thank you with sincere appreciation for all you to do to teach us that it is within all our budgets to make our homes truly beautiful.

[@theenthusiasticgardenerind3490]

I love French inspired living because of the mix of both old and new. Someday, I hope to travel to France and see all the magnificent homes and gardens.

[@mrodgers518]

I so love your postings. They bring me peace, design inspiration, and expand my knowledge of architecture and design. It warms my heart to know others appreciate my passion. Thank you.

[@Yolie1961]

Aah yes ❤️❤️❤️ the beauty of French country! It’s such a timeless & calming array of decor that is so pleasing to the eyes and so warm to my soul. It’s so comfortable, elegant & so refined. I’m so intrigued by it , and so inspired by Carolyn to continue my journey in transforming my home. It’s hard work & I’ve only just begun, but now after this video I am even more inspired by her! I want the French ambiance in my own home, so that I can feel what I feel when I watch this video. The decor makes me feel gorgeous & calm. I want to open all my windows and feel the fresh air, or go and catch butterflies in a field filled with tall flowers! I want to be home and embrace my loved ones & cook a wonderful meal & play soft music, or even light the candles and embrace my husband! This decor is so romantic! Oh I’m dreaming again!! This video took me away to France, and one day, I will experience it, Either in my own home, or France!🤗❤️❤️ Hug to all!

[@hikingwiththedog6078]

Those hand-holding witches are adorable...I hope I can manage to make my own version of them in time for Halloween this year. Thanks for the great reviews and all your great ideas!

[@melaniemorris7757]

What a lovely book! Hope to make the visit one day!

[@barbaradobson9298]

Recently I’ve fallen in love with a French designs. Love how these rooms are elegant but not stuffy. I look forward to your videos and these decorators are influencing my purchases for home and my decorating. Thanks for inspiring and renewing m interest in my home.

[@mrsb9966]

Another good review! I've bought some books that you have reviewed. Looking forward to owning more! Thank you.

[@Gardeninggirl4316]

I love your channel. On Halloween, we ate hamburger buns with spaghetti sauce spread on them with a slice of cheese melted on top that had had a spooky jack o lantern face cut out! I love traditions!

[@susanlamb5139]

Such elegance and beauty in the French inspired home. I could listen to your sweet voice describe these lovely homes all day. Thank you for doing what you do. You do it well💕

[@karenschrantz2307]

This is my favorite book and video that you have done so far! I just discovered your channel recently and have passed it on to several of my friends. And yes I agree with the author, you must go and see French living for yourself. I was lucky enough to go with my French and art class for my senior year in 1992. I have so many memories and photographs that I will just never forget how in awe I was and always will be.

[@mjef3695]

Love, love, this this lady’s work. Thank you for featuring her. Also thank you for sharing part of your story.❤

[@anne7441]

Thanks for the giveaway. I love decorating books and have quite a few that you've reviewed. Your home is lovely!

[@carolynwestbrook8709]

Love Carolyn’s taste of French antique’s My name is also Carolyn Westbrook we met in Caron Tx. I always refer to her book for different ideas for my home.