Interior Design
10 must have interior design books for stunning ideas
By Mohit Chakravorty
May 27 2025
1. Japanese Interiors
Japanese Interiors by Mihoko Iida is a gem for anyone into interior design. This book dives deep into the cool, calming vibes of Japanese home decor, showcasing how simplicity and natural elements can make your space feel serene and stylish.
If you're looking for fresh ideas to transform your home, this book is packed with inspiration. It highlights the beauty of minimalism, showing how less really can be more. You'll see how to use natural materials, create seamless transitions between indoor and outdoor spaces, and arrange your furniture thoughtfully.
What's awesome about "Japanese Interiors" is that it’s not just about making your home look good—it's about creating a peaceful, nurturing environment. The stunning photos and easy-to-understand commentary will make you rethink your own space and inspire you to bring some of that calm, Japanese aesthetic into your home. Whether you're a pro designer or just love decorating, this book is a treasure trove of ideas and inspiration.
Buy on amazon: https://amzn.to/45QbMDD
2. Down to Earth: Laid-back Interiors for Modern Living
Down to Earth: Laid-back Interiors for Modern Living by Lauren Liess is a fantastic read for anyone looking to create a cozy, inviting home. This book is all about making your living space comfortable, stylish, and totally livable.
Lauren Liess has a knack for blending natural elements with a relaxed, modern vibe. Her book is full of beautiful photos and easy-to-follow tips on how to bring a laid-back feel to any room. Whether you're into rustic charm or sleek modern designs, you'll find plenty of inspiration here.
One of the coolest things about "Down to Earth" is how it encourages you to use what you already have. Lauren shows you how to mix and match pieces, use natural textures, and create a space that feels both elegant and lived-in. It’s about making your home a true reflection of you and your lifestyle.
Buy on amazon: https://amzn.to/4eIyUIj
3. The World of Ornament by David Batterham
The World of Ornament by David Batterham is a must-read if you're into design, art, or just love beautiful things. This book is like a treasure chest of stunning patterns and decorations from all over the world.
Why should you read it? Well, it's packed with incredible illustrations that can spark your creativity and give you tons of ideas for your own projects. Whether you're decorating your home, working on an art project, or just looking for some eye candy, this book has got you covered.
What makes it so inspiring is the sheer variety of designs. You'll find everything from intricate ancient motifs to bold, modern patterns. It's a fantastic way to see how different cultures have expressed beauty through ornamentation.
Buy on amazon: https://amzn.to/3L6sCo7
4. Studio Ashby
Studio Ashby: Home, Art, Soul is a book you'll want to dive into if you're all about cozy homes and artistic vibes. It's like peeking into the coolest, most creative spaces and getting a big dose of inspiration.
So, why should you read it? Well, it's full of gorgeous photos that'll make you want to redecorate your whole place. The spaces designed by Studio Ashby are all about mixing art, furniture, and personal touches to create spaces that feel totally unique and welcoming.
What's really inspiring about this book is how it shows you don't need a huge budget to make your home look amazing. Studio Ashby uses a mix of high-end pieces and thrift store finds to create spaces that are stylish and full of personality.
Whether you're into interior design or just love looking at beautiful homes, Studio Ashby is a must-read. It's packed with ideas and inspiration that'll make you want to get creative with your own space. Plus, it's just a fun book to flip through and dream about all the cool things you could do with your home.
Buy on amazon: https://amzn.to/3L9D5zs
5. Walk With Me: New York by Susan Kaufman
Walk With Me: New York by Susan Kaufman is like taking a stroll through the heart of the Big Apple without ever leaving your couch. It's all about capturing the energy, diversity, and spirit of New York City in a way that'll make you fall in love with it all over again.
Why should you read it? Well, if you've ever been to New York or dream of visiting someday, this book is a must-read. It's packed with stunning photos that capture the city's iconic landmarks, bustling streets, and vibrant neighbourhoods. You'll feel like you're right there, soaking in the sights and sounds of the city that never sleeps.
But what's really inspiring about "Walk With Me: New York" is how it celebrates the people and places that make New York so special. From the colourful characters you'll meet on the streets to the hidden gems tucked away in quiet corners, this book is full of stories that'll make you smile, laugh, and maybe even shed a tear or two.
Buy on amazon: https://amzn.to/3zpJO5L
6. Home: The Foundations of Enduring Spaces
Home: The Foundations of Enduring Spaces by Ellen S. Fisher is like having a chat with your wise, design-savvy friend who knows all the secrets to creating a cozy, lasting home. It's the ultimate guidebook for anyone who wants to make their space feel welcoming and timeless.
Why should you read it? Well, for starters, it's packed with practical tips and insights that'll help you transform your home into a haven. Ellen Fisher breaks down the essentials of good design in a way that's easy to understand and apply, whether you're a total newbie or a seasoned decorator.
But what really makes this book inspiring is how it celebrates the idea of home as more than just a place—it's a feeling. Through beautiful photos and heartfelt stories, Fisher shows how to infuse your space with personality, warmth, and a sense of belonging.
Buy on amazon: https://amzn.to/45Qi06n
7. Interiors: The Greatest Rooms of the Century
Interiors: The Greatest Rooms of the Century by Phaidon Editors is like flipping through a giant, gorgeous scrapbook of the most jaw-dropping rooms from the past hundred years. It's the ultimate coffee table book for anyone who loves interior design or just appreciates beautiful spaces.
Why should you read it? Well, first off, it's packed with stunning photos that'll make you want to redecorate every room in your house. From sleek modern lofts to cosy vintage cottages, there's something here to inspire every taste and style.
But what really makes this book special is the stories behind the rooms. Each photo is accompanied by a little blurb that gives you the inside scoop on the design, the designer, and the history behind the space. It's like getting a backstage pass to some of the most iconic interiors of all time.
Whether you're a design nerd or just love ogling beautiful homes, "Interiors: The Greatest Rooms of the Century" is a must-read. It's packed with ideas, inspiration, and eye candy that'll make you see your own space in a whole new light.
Buy on amazon: https://amzn.to/45MyVXs
8. Interiors Oasis
Interiors Oasis: Modern Desert Homes Around the World by iO Tillett Wright is like taking a road trip through the coolest desert homes you never knew existed. It's the ultimate guide for anyone who's ever dreamed of living in a stylish oasis under the sun.
So, why should you read it? Well, first off, it's packed with drool-worthy photos that'll make you want to pack your bags and move to the desert ASAP. From sleek, modern pads to cozy, bohemian retreats, there's something here to inspire every desert dweller wannabe.
But what really sets this book apart is the stories behind the homes. iO Tillett Wright takes you inside some of the most unique and stunning desert dwellings around the world, sharing the design secrets, the challenges, and the magic that makes each one special.
Buy on amazon: https://amzn.to/3zoaJPc
9. Karl Lagerfeld: A Life in Houses
Karl Lagerfeld: A Life in Houses is like getting an exclusive peek into the fabulous world of one of fashion's biggest icons. It's a must-read for anyone who's ever been curious about the man behind the sunglasses and the genius behind the designs.
So, why should you read it? Well, for starters, it's packed with juicy details about Lagerfeld's incredible life and career. From his early days as a design prodigy to his reign as the creative director of Chanel, this book gives you the inside scoop on all the glitz, glamour, and drama that defined his legendary career.
But what really makes this book inspiring is the insight into Lagerfeld's personal style and taste. Through stunning photos and intimate anecdotes, you'll get a sense of his love for beauty, art, and all things chic. It's like getting a masterclass in how to live life with style and sophistication.
Whether you're a die-hard fashionista or just love a good celebrity memoir, "Karl Lagerfeld: A Life in Houses" is a must-read. It's packed with inspiration, intrigue, and a healthy dose of fashion fantasy that'll make you see the world through Lagerfeld's iconic sunglasses.
Buy on amazon: https://amzn.to/4cGZ3p6
10. Interaction of Colour: 50th Anniversary Edition
Interaction of Colour: 50th Anniversary Edition by Josef Albers is like getting a crash course in the magic of colour. It's a must-read for anyone who's ever been curious about how colours work together and why they make us feel the way they do.
So, why should you read it? Well, for starters, it's packed with mind-blowing exercises and experiments that'll change the way you see colour forever. Albers breaks down the principles of colour theory in a way that's easy to understand, even if you're not an art nerd.
But what really makes this book inspiring is how it challenges you to think differently about colour. Through hands-on activities and thought-provoking commentary, you'll learn to see colour not just as something pretty to look at, but as a powerful tool for expression and communication.
Buy on amazon: https://amzn.to/4cJ4RhT