Hints on Household Taste: The Classic Handbook of Victorian Interior Decoration Book

Although they are largely forgotten now, in their lifetimes Eastlake and his wife were the premier arbiters of interior decoration. They were probably more widely influential than was the more intellectual Ruskin, as they addressed the needs of those of modest means and education as well as elites. This is a very accessible, easy-to-understand guide that any person could follow to create an attractive and tasteful home. It was novel for the time both in addressing issues of economy and in discouraging faddishness. Eastlake shared William Morris' insistence on sturdy, timeless workmanship and his aversion to the prevailing heavy, cluttered style of Victorian homes. 1st published 1868.

*note: the author is the nephew of the artist Sir Charles Eastlake (1793-1865), who also published his opinions on art. Check pub dates to keep them straight.