Jungalow

Starred review from April 5, 2021
Designer Blakeney (The New Bohemians Handbook) offers uplifting inspiration in this combo of memoir, DIY instruction, and interior design philosophy. “A home is like a garden,” Blakeney reminds; “it must be cultivated to create the conditions for healthy growth.” From this foundation, she builds on her idea of “Jungalow,” a mash-up of “jungle” and “bungalow” that features a lush, island aesthetic. She invites readers to find inspiration in nature and approach their homes as “places for growing.” To accomplish that, she shows how to spark creativity in the home: she encourages “foraging for color” (which consists of walking through one’s neighborhood and snapping photos for ideas), making a mood board (mixing and matching colors, finishes, and textures), and visiting a flea market to find quirky decorative pieces. Alongside the advice, Blakeney dispenses instructions for such decorative crafts as painted tessellations and decoupage wallpaper. She also shares memorable takes on her life story, specifically the marriage of her Jewish mother and Black father, the connection with “mixed-ness” she felt upon visiting Morocco, and her travel agent grandmother, who shared tales of her globe-trotting adventures with Blakeney and inspired her to travel. Blakeney’s bold tips are sure to leave readers eager to find inspiration in the world, and to bring bright color into their homes. Agent: Kate Woodrow, Present Perfect Literary.