The timeless beauty and universal appeal of tile, stone and brick have inspired architects and designers since time immemorial. In today's style-conscious world, these natural materials - infinite in variety and unsurpassed in texture - are reaching new heights of expression in architecture and interior design.

Author Carol Soucek King takes us on a global tour that celebrates the virtuosity of talented architects and designers worldwide. From SoHo to St.

Tropez, Designing with Tile, Stone & Brick: The Creative Touch features an international showcase of stunning homes where classic, sophisticated, cutting-edge design is expressed through an astounding diversity of materials: French limestone, polished granite, rustic fieldstone, earthy terra-cotta and mosaic tile, rugged antique brick, volcanic rock, and even smooth beach stones.