www.pacificdesigncenter.com

Pacific Design Center

As the website states, "The Pacific Design Center is the West Coast's leading resource for fine traditional and contemporary residential and contract furnishings, fabrics, floor coverings, architectural products, wall coverings, lighting, kitchen and bath products, and accessories." Designed by architect Cesar Pelli, FAIA, the PDC is an award-winning, multi-use facility in West Hollywood with 130 showrooms that display and sell interior product lines to professional interior designers, architects, and dealers.

The website features an alphabetical listing of the showrooms housed within the PDC's impressive walls and is very complete, with the showroom name, phone number, fax number, suite number and the website address. Other features include event and program information, design services, concierge, and amenities, which gives detailed descriptions of the offerings within the PDC campus, such as The Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCA), The Wolfgang Puck Restaurant, and the Silver Screen Theater, to name just a few.

The Pacific Design Center has been remodeled and improved over the last few years, and the website obviously reflects this newness as well. Its resources are many, its problems are few, and any design professional (or student) can easily get an overview of the immense offerings of this blue, green and red design center in the heart of Los Angeles. Browse the site, purchase a PDC Showroom Directory, or better yet, visit the concierge on your next visit to the PDC and purchase a copy for $10.00.

Reviewed by Library Staff Member - Cynthia Aaron

Anglomania: Tradition and Transgression In British Fashion is at its core a catalog adapted from the popular Metropolitan Museum of Art exhibition titled Anglomania. This popular attraction was conceived in conjunction with the museum's famous Costume Institute to pay homage to the rich tradition and history of British costume and fashion through the ages.

The book is a well-illustrated record of the exhibition itself. Looking through the 81 gorgeous color photographs you almost feel as if you are there walking through the exhibit and enjoying it in real life. Such iconic British designers such as Philip Treacy, Alexander McQueen, Christopher Bailey (Burberry), Stella McCartney, John Galliano and Vivienne Westwood are all glowingly represented. The most fantastic thing about this book is that the garments and accessories are frequently photographed close-up so that you can appreciate the fine details. Anglomania is also careful to reference English period rooms and interiors as well so that you can appreciate the full context in which this retrospective was staged. Truly a feast for the eyes and one that will make you want to travel to the British isles. Bon voyage!

Reviewed by Library Staff Member - Monika Earle