How different are American homes from European ones? While I remain a devoted fan of American decorating and American decorative arts, I have to admit that I often look at European interiors with a twinge of envy. And this issue, which focuses on homes in Ireland, England, and France (and one as far afield as Morocco, although even that has a distinctly Gallic air), has provoked more than a couple of jealous thoughts.
The most immediate difference, of course, is architecture. American homes tend to lack the sweeping high ceilings, paneling, ornate plasterwork, enfilades of rooms, and striking patterned tile floors that are signature elements of so many of the homes we feature this month. But these homes, and their owners, provide lessons and inspirations that can apply anywhere. They…
