I sort of have a thing for interior design books. I have a shamefully large collection. Which works out because I think beautiful books are some of the best decor themselves. I have them scattered around all over the house... Beneath lamps, on coffee tables, stacked on bookshelves, next to beds, etc. I just love looking at them.
Not to mention they also make pretty awesome gifts. To me, the perfect gift is a pretty book. Write a heartfelt sentiment on the inside cover and you're good to go. The recipient will have it forever.
Ok so on to the actual details of my favorites... I narrowed it down (pretty easily actually) to my 9 best. I was going to make it a round 10, but these were truly what stood out. I feel like no matter your actual decorating style, you can easily enjoy all of these and get inspiration from any of them for your particular space.
So here we go, (maybe in some particular order).
First, a few books by Suzanne Kasler: Timeless Style and Inspired Interiors.
The two of these are super hard to compare, so I'm grouping them together. I think together, they contain so much inspiration and ideas, it's crazy. I love how they contain tons of beautiful, large images, while also providing a lot of actual useful info and thoughtful ideas.
When I think of these two books (and her style in general), I think of a good mix of styles. While at first glance her style comes off very classic and some pieces are very traditional, she mixes it up with more modern and eclectic pieces here and there which is what I really like decor-wise.
These books have so many great ideas for decorating with collections (without feeling cluttered), wall (gallery) groupings, and table arrangements. They really have something for everyone.
Also, if it's actual architecture of spaces that you like, you'll love both of these books.
Next, Domino: The Book of Decorating.
First off, the book itself is so darn pretty...
Inside is a good mix of practical advice and guides on different types of furniture to fit your particular space and style...
...mixed with some really fun and easy (sometimes out-of-the-box) ideas and eye candy galore.
This one would be perfect for someone just getting started with their first space.
This next one I could probably look through every single day and feel inspired by something different each time: Black and White (and a bit in between).
Seriously so many fun ideas for adding black and white into your space. But don't let the name fool you... There's actually a surprising use of color in this one.
Next one (with my favorite cover), Glamorous Rooms.
You can see in the widget image above, it has a pretty jacket. But when I saw the actual cover, I ditched it. You can totally see why, right??
This one contains exactly what the name implies... Photo after photo of glamorous rooms. Tons of inspiration in this one as well. Plus, the book is glam and decorative on it's own which is always a plus.
Next, A Passion for Blue and White.
I got this book years and years ago, probably before I really even started collecting blue and white ceramics, now that I think of it. This was probably the first interior decor book I owned.
Your house and taste definitely doesn't have to be an explosion of blue and white to appreciate this book, though. It contains just as much floral inspiration as well and is full of interesting tablescapes.
Next, In with the Old: Classic Decor from A to Z.
This is a sweet little book, although much more "wordy" than the others.
It's set up truly from A to Z. Discussing decor themes and key pieces all the way through the alphabet.
Finally, my last two... A few "shabby chic" books by Rachel Ashwell: Shabby Chic and Shabby Chic Interiors.
While "shabby chic" isn't how I'd define 100% of my style (I like a mix of a ton of different things), I can definitely get inspiration from this book. These are probably the only true "niche" decor books I have that truly focus on one type of decor style, but like I said previously, even if your style isn't defined as "shabby chic", you can probably be inspired from a thing or two in these. From the gorgeous antique chandeliers, to Ashwell's advice on flea market picking for unique finds and her practical thoughts on slipcovered furnishings, I think anyone could find interest in a thing or two.
On the other hand, if shabby chic is 100% your thing, any of Rachel Ashwell's books would be worth checking out.
Whew. So that's it for my favorites! There are SO many decor books out there in a variety of styles, but I really think that these would appeal to anyone. What are some of your favorite decor books?? I love finding new ones!!
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