I’ve rounded up the best home design books that I own at home. I have a lot of home design books and have selected my favorite ones based on their content, imagery, and inspiration. Of course I haven’t reviewed every home design book that exists, but I’m sharing the books I know and love. These books are not only pretty on the outside (that’s important), they have substance on the inside. If you’re renovating your home, building a new home, decorating, or just want something for your coffee table, I recommend these home design books for ideas and inspiration.
If these home design books inspire you to decorate spaces in your home, you might be interested in these posts where I found home decor dupes of some of my favorite items: Pottery Barn Looks for Less on Amazon and Restoration Hardware Decor Dupes on Amazon
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Best Home Decor Books
Recently released, The Art of Home, by Shea McGee is a new favorite home decor book of mine. I just bought it a week ago and I’m swooning over all the gorgeously styled rooms.
Shea McGee, co-founder of the interior design firm Studio McGee, offers insights, tips, and inspiration for decorating a home to reflect your own unique style and personality. In The Art of Home, McGee emphasizes the importance of creating spaces that are not only visually appealing but also functional and comfortable for everyday living.
The home design book is filled with stunning photographs that showcase McGee’s own design projects. McGee takes us through every room of a house, including entryways, living rooms, kitchens, offices, kids’ rooms, and even utility rooms. From impeccably styled living rooms to cozy bedrooms and inviting kitchens, each photographed space is a source of inspiration. The book concludes with detailed guides on home design that are also very useful. The Art of Home is a must have for anyone looking for home design inspiration.
Habitat by Lauren Leiss is a home decor book on how to to bring harmony to your home by drawing inspiration from the outdoors.
Habitat by Lauren Leiss is a home decor book on how to to bring harmony to your home by drawing inspiration from the outdoors. Interior designer, Lauren Leiss offers practical advice for designing spaces that are both stylish and sustainable. She discusses how natural elements such as wood, stone, and greenery can infuse homes with a sense of tranquility and serenity.
One of the book’s most compelling aspects is its emphasis on simplicity and authenticity. Leiss advocates for a minimalist approach to design–oneIn that allows the innate beauty of natural materials to shine. All of the spaces Leiss designs are beautiful but also livable and comfortable. Whether you’re a professional designer or someone seeking simplicity at home, Habitat will leave you feeling inspired.
Best Interior Design Books
The Interior Design Handbook by Frida Ramstadt is an invaluable resource for anyone interested in learning the art and science of interior design.
The Interior Design Handbook is exactly what the title says–it’s an informative book about all of the concepts of interior design. Don’t expect a book filled with photographs of well designed spaces. Rather, the book includes illustrations, infographics, and sketches that help explain the design concepts. It’s really refreshing to read because it’s so informative and clear.
Every single page has objective and useful information. Ramstadt covers all aspects of the interior design process, from understanding design principles to practical considerations such as space planning, lighting, and color theory. Each topic is explored in depth, with clear explanations and examples.
The Interior Design Handbook is a must-have resource for anyone passionate about home design. Whether you’re a beginner looking to learn the basics or an experienced designer seeking inspiration, this book has something to offer.
If you like The Interior Design Handbook, look out for Frida Ramstadt’s upcoming book, The Furniture Handbook, releasing in May. I know I’m going to pre-order it!
shop The Interior Design Handbook, $18
Best Architectural Home Design Books
Finding Home by acclaimed architect Ken Pursley is an architectual design book that inspires any reader to appreciate thoughtful design.
Ken Pursley shares 15 stunning houses in three distinct styles: rustic mountain escapes, dreamy retreats by the water, and elegant houses in town. Pursley’s keen eye for detail and his deep appreciation for timeless design principles shine through in every page of this beautifully crafted book.
One of the most compelling aspects of the book is Pursley’s emphasis on the essence of home and what it means to us on a deeper level. He discusses how each home reflects the values and background of it’s owners. Pursley recognizes that architecture has the power to evoke emotion, stir the imagination, and foster a sense of connection with nature. If you appreciate design and craftsmanship, Finding Home will surely leave a lasting impression.
The Nature of Home by Jeffrey Dungan invites readers on a journey to rediscover the essence of home in harmony with nature.
Renowned architect Jeffrey Dungan shares his advice and insight for creating forever homes in The Nature of Home. Throughout the book, Dungan shares examples of his own projects, from cozy cabins nestled in the woods to sleek modern homes with breathtaking views. Each design is carefully crafted to integrate with their natural surroundings. All of his work speaks of authenticity, timelessness, and attention to detail.
With its jaw-dropping photography and thoughtful commentary, is sure to resonate with anyone who shares Dungan’s belief that homes and nature can enrich our lives and nourish our souls. The Nature of Home is an inspiring book that will leave readers with a newfound appreciation for the beauty and power of architecture. If you’re like me who loves to dream about the ideal home, this home design book is sure to inspire you.
Poetry of Place by Bobby McAlpine is a captivating book that takes readers on a visual journey through the world of architecture.
McAlpine, a talented architect, shares his passion for creating homes that feel like poetry in physical form. Poetry of Place is filled with stunning photographs of McAlpine’s designs, from cozy cottages to grand estates. Each image is accompanied by thoughtful commentary that explains McAlpine’s inspiration behind the design.
McAlpine reveals his deep respect for tradition and craftsmanship in his designs. His distinctive architectural style seamlessly blends traditional elements with modern designs. The juxtaposition of old and new, traditional and modern, gives McAlpine’s work a distinctive aesthetic. Poetry of Place is a book that anyone appreciating classic yet modern architecture will enjoy.
