by Mollie Magill

Beat the heat with these books devoted to American design.

Two Become One
Design writer Eva Hagberg’s newest book, Nature Framed: At Home in the Landscape, features a round-up of contemporary homes that blur man-made spaces with good ole’ American countryside, including Connecticut, Arizona, Washington, Vermont, and Southern California.  The over 200 color photos may encourage you to fundamentally question man’s relationship with the land he inhabits, or they may simply provide soothing eye candy.  Either way, Nature Framed does what any good book should: transports.  $50, Monacelli Press, Nature Framed: At Home in the Landscape.

Pretty Little Things
Jewelry aficionados will burn the midnight oil devouring the photo-filled pages of Judith Ripka by Judith Ripka, featuring baubles from her eponymous line, as well as personal photos and stories.  Known as a pioneer for bringing haute jewelry designs to the masses – Ripka’s designs sparkle on the red carpet and QVC alike – she shares how she turned her at-home business into a global brand with mass appeal.  $65,
Assouline.