Text by Margaret Zainey Roux
Photography by Max Kim-Bee, Erica George Dines
There is more to the word “atmosphere” than its scientific definition—just ask James “Jim” Howard. In his recently published book, Atmosphere: The Seven Elements of Great Design (Abrams, 2019), the Jacksonville-based interior and furniture designer explores the artistry involved in creating an atmosphere of beauty and tranquility inside the home.
“I’ve written this book to convey what I’ve learned about crafting atmosphere at home, wherever that home may be, whatever aesthetic it might have,” says Howard, who co-founded Mr. and Mrs. Howard with his wife, interior designer Phoebe Howard. “Doing so isn’t a matter of rules or formulas, but there is a science to it as much as an art. It requires knowledge, passionate research, and travel, but also a willingness to think inventively, creatively, and in multiple dimensions.”
In its 270-plus pages, the book marries captivating photos, dreamy watercolors, and detailed architectural renderings with well-organized information and thoughtful insight that Howard gained during his design school days at Parsons in New York City. It was there that he discovered the seven key elements of great design: style, scale and proportion, rhythm, light, color, texture, and sound.
Today, after decades of practical experience and at the peak of his professional career, Howard re-examines each of these elements on its own—both in the abstract and in actual rooms—and then all together across several unique residences, including an elegant Lutyens-inspired estate, a sophisticated modern farmhouse, and a refined coastal cottage.
He also delves into matters of style and dissects the details that define well-appointed rooms such as art, rugs, fabrics, furnishings, and accessories. According to Howard, no component is too small to escape notice, and therefore, every detail demands attention.
“Like the elements themselves, the details can add up to more than the sum of their parts,” Howard says. “The quality and execution of each one is important, but so, too, is authenticity and ingenuity. Details will enhance, refine, and serve as the ‘eye candy’ of the overall design, the icing on the cake, and the essential finish to any successful space.”
