In this beautiful, lavishly illustrated 400-page volume, Christine Lemieux covers the traditions, tools, and major players in the home-goods industries so that homeowners learn how to identify the hallmarks of timeless, heirloom-quality pieces.

Christiane and dozens of other home-design experts also offer advice on how to live well with these pieces. A visual timeline shows the history of artisan tile, a studio visit goes behind the scenes with the high-end wallpaper company de Gournay, and tastemakers' interiors dripping with style and luxury give timeless decorating ideas.