Designer Kathryn Ireland shares her favorite homes in new book

For her fifth book, Inspired By ..., (Gibbs Smith, $45) acclaimed English-born interior designer Kathryn Ireland did something unusual in a world where branding is king: She chose not to highlight homes she herself designed, but those of friends and colleagues. It was so much fun -- I felt like an editor! she said. And these really are houses that I love, that inspire me. I could happily live in each and every one of them.

Ireland, a mother of three sons who oversees a thriving business that includes fabrics, wallpaper and furniture (and whose client list includes Steve Martin and Julia Louis-Dreyfus), grew up in London and Scotland, lives in a Santa Monica Spanish Colonial Revival and vacations at her vintage farmhouse in southwestern France. In other words, its lucky that she happened to be home on a recent Saturday, packing for a trip to New York but enjoying a glass of rose while fielding questions.

There are certainly enough homes and rooms to suit everyones style in the book, but, some, like your friend Lady Annabel Goldsmiths grand home in England, might be considered dated or even old lady-ish. What do you love about it?

Its so comfortable. I dont think it looks dated at all -- I think its classic and timeless. Ive stayed in that house and I actually did a few rooms. Ive learned so much from Annabel; you know, the way shell include her childrens art with old masters. Its formal in an informal way, comfy and cozy, but with an air of grandeur. And I absolutely love that its always full of kids and friends and laughter.

Barry Dixons home in Virginia is one of the books highlights and his dark, antiques-filled library is the epitome of charm. Have you spent time there?

Yes! My boys and I spent last Christmas there and the whole house is absolutely ravishing. Its like a stage set, but in an approachable way. No one knows how to layer better than Barry or has a better sense of color. I think hes probably one of the most talented interior designers alive. Geniusly good. And that library is just extraordinary, you just want to curl up in it. Plus, hes got great books!

Obviously, not everyone can afford to live in the homes featured in the book. Lets say Im tired of my living room but moneys an issue. What can I do to change it up?

I always think throws and new pillow covers. And you can make the pillow covers -- who cant sew a square? And you can get old textiles and fabrics at a flea market and cover the furniture. And a lampshade made out of a print or a color makes things look different. And move things around -- houses and rooms need to be freshened up from time to time. Dont be afraid to move your artwork around to different rooms. Fresh flowers are a given -- fresh flowers and tidying up can do wonders.

Are there any staples that you never tire of, that youve used over and over again?

Lloyd Loom wicker chairs - you can put them anywhere, in the kitchen, in a sunroom, and they always look good. Another staple is an AGA cooker. [Laughs] But certainly not if youre on a budget! Growing up in England, we always had one, so I associate it with that warm, cozy feeling. Theyre gorgeous and theyre everything in one -- they cook, they bake, they keep things warm -- they do everything.

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Designer Kathryn Ireland shares her favorite homes in new book