25 Coffee Table Books to Covet
One thing I think most great homes have in common is some kind of book collection.
We grow up with books. Beginning with picture books, we advance to textbooks, then move on to a wide variety of books we read for pleasure. One thing that never goes out of style is a great coffee table book!
One thing that never goes out of style is a great coffee table book!
Regardless of what your interests are, you are pretty much guaranteed to find a coffee table book to suit your passion. Whether that’s gardening, travel, photography, sports, animals, art, there’s a book out there for you. In addition to having lots of informative text, they are filled with inspiring images to illustrate the topic.
For Interior Designers, books are a great styling tool. In a previous post The Beginners Guide to Home Decor Accessories I share some styling tips on the many ways to use books to decorate your home.
Books can be used to complement or emphasize a color story, whether you’re adding a pop of color or toning down a busy vignette. They’re also a great base to elevate or highlight a unique or favorite accessory. We can’t forget the wonderful texture and warmth they bring to a space!
As much fun as it is to use books in unique ways, I love when books reflect the personality and interests of the homeowner. A book collection can offer some insight into a person’s individuality that you may not have previously known about. After all, the home should showcase the special aspects of those who live there.
I think it will come as no surprise to any of you that my favorite style of coffee table books are design-related. It’s like a double dose of inspiration!
It was difficult to narrow down which ones I wanted to highlight, but I was able to manage. Here are my top picks for design, travel, and inspirational coffee table books.
1.The Art of Outdoor Living: Gardens for Entertaining Family and Friends by Scott Shrader, Lisa Romerien
Don’t forget to consider your outdoor spaces as a potential additional living space.
2. Timeless: Classic American Architecture for Contemporary Living by Patrick Ahearn
For some breathtaking architectural inspiration let me introduce you to Mr. Patrick Ahearn.
3. Fallingwater by Lynda Waggoner, Christopher Little
For those of us who are lucky enough to live in Western Pennsylvania, this is a true work of art. It’s one of my favorite places to visit!
4. Poetry of Place: The New Architecture and Interiors of McAlpine by Bobby McAlpine, Susan Sully
Familiarize yourself with McAlpine, you will not be disappointed!
5. A Place to Call Home: Tradition, Style, and Memory in the New American House by Gil Schafer III, Eric Piasecki
Timeless & Classic Architecture
6. The Design Hotels Book: Edition 2016 by Design HotelsTM
As a travel lover, I enjoy discovering beautifully designed hotels as much as exploring new locations.
7. Beth Webb: An Eye for Beauty: Rooms That Speak to the Senses by Beth Webb, Judith Nastir
An Atlanta designer I discovered recently who has a stunning aesthetic.
8. Thomas Pheasant: Simply Serene by Thomas Pheasant, Durston Saylor
Ditto! ^
9. Steven Gambrel: Perspective by Steven Gambrel, Eric Piasecki
A friend introduced me to Steven Gambrel’s work and I’ve been a fan ever since
10. Ray Booth: Evocative Interiors by Ray Booth, Judith Nasatir, Bobby McAlpine (forward)
A member of the McAlpine firm, so you know it’s going to be good!
11. Creating Home: Design for Living by Keith Summerour, Marc Kristal
Some serious interior eye candy.
12. Natural Elegance: Luxurious Mountain Living by Rush Jenkins, Klaus Baer
Swoon-worthy interiors set amongst gorgeous landscapes
13. Atmosphere: The Seven Elements of Great Design by James Howard
I recently picked this up for a client, my only mistake was not grabbing myself a copy!
14. Victoria Hagan: Interior Portraits by Victoria Hagan
The cover alone has me intrigued
15. Habitat: The Field Guide to Decorating by Lauren Liess
Lauren Liess always has such a good mix of texture and a great example of how to bring the outdoors in!
16. Down to Earth: Laid-back Interiors for Modern Living by Lauren Liess
Another by Ms. Liess, I appreciate her laid back sophisticated vibe!
17. Nancy Braithwaite: Simplicity by Nancy Braithwaite, Dara Caponigro
An eye-catching cover that has me wanting to simplify everything I own.
18. This Is Home: The Art of Simple Living by Natalie Walton, Chris Warnes
Home is what it’s all about.
19. Once in a Lifetime: Places to Go for Travel and Leisure by Clara Le Fort, R. Klanten
I’ll buy this for the cover alone. #hotairballoons <3
20. Travel Home: Design with a Global Spirit by Caitlin Flemming, Julie Goebel
Two of my favorite things: Design & Travel. What could be better?!
21. Pacific Natural: Simple Seasonal Entertaining by Jenni Kayne, Martha Stewart
Great for the hostess who has everything!
22. Eat, Drink, Nap: Bringing the House Home by Soho House
The title says it all!
23. Living with Pattern: Color, Texture, and Print at Home by Rebecca Atwood
I’ve followed Rebecca’s work for years, and while I tend to stay with a more neutral color palette, her patterns and textures are amazing!
24. The House that Pinterest Built by Diane Keaton, Lisa Romerein
Who doesn’t love Diane Keaton, she’s got style for days!
25. Homebody: A Guide to Creating Spaces You Never Want to Leave by Joanna Gaines
I think we all know Ms. Joanna Gaines and her modern farmhouse style!
I could have easily gotten carried away and doubled this selection. Seriously, I could spend a fortune on design books!
While we’re all familiar with the obvious places to shop for books, here are a few other locations I like to hit up; Homegoods, Half-Priced Books, antique/vintage stores, Goodwill, small boutiques, garage sales, flea markets.
Last-minute tip: We all have that hard-to-shop-for person in our lives. Next time you’re stuck for ideas on a gift maybe consider a coffee table book tailored to their interests! I know that’s what I’d want!
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