The Best Books on Interior Design for Every Style

A beautifully curated home is as much about knowledge and inspiration as it is about the pieces within it. The finest interiors are not simply decorated—they are considered, layered, and deeply personal. A well-chosen collection of design books is an essential part of this process, offering insight, history, and endless inspiration.

Whether placed on a coffee table for daily browsing, stacked on a console for an elegant display, or referenced in moments of creative refinement, a great interior design book is both a guide and an object of beauty.

Classic Interior Design Books

These books are foundational—timeless references that every design lover should own. They offer a deep understanding of the principles of interiors, from balance and proportion to the art of curation.

• "The Decoration of Houses" by Edith Wharton & Ogden Codman Jr. – A design classic that lays the groundwork for timeless interiors.
• "The House in Good Taste" by Elsie de Wolfe – One of the first great American design books, filled with lessons on elegance.
• "Billy Baldwin Decorates" by Billy Baldwin – A masterclass in refined yet comfortable living, from the designer who defined understated glamour.
• "Mark Hampton on Decorating" by Mark Hampton – A beautifully illustrated guide to timeless interiors, filled with the wisdom of a design icon.
• "A Pattern Language" by Christopher Alexander – Less about style, more about the way spaces make us feel—an insightful study on how we interact with design.

Books for Traditional and Classic Interiors

For those drawn to interiors that honor history, craftsmanship, and timeless elegance, these books explore the beauty of classical design.

• "Bunny Williams: A House by the Sea" – An intimate look at the legendary designer’s personal retreat and philosophy.
• "Charlotte Moss Entertains" – A celebration of refined hospitality, style, and elegant living.
• "The Life of an Interior Decorator" by Sister Parish – A glimpse into the work of one of America’s most influential decorators.
• "Robert Kime" – A beautifully detailed study of the British designer’s layered, storied interiors.
• "Inspired by Tradition: The Architecture of Norman Davenport Askins" – A tribute to classical architecture and timeless beauty.

Books on Modern and Minimalist Interiors

For those who appreciate clean lines, refined simplicity, and effortless sophistication, these books highlight the power of restraint.

• "John Pawson: Anatomy of Minimum" – A masterful study of minimalism, proving that simplicity is anything but stark.
• "Axel Vervoordt: Wabi Inspirations" – A poetic look at interiors inspired by wabi-sabi philosophy, celebrating imperfection and authenticity.
• "Interiors: The Greatest Rooms of the Century" – A definitive survey of influential interiors, from modernist masterpieces to contemporary icons.
• "The Kinfolk Home" – A guide to slow, intentional living through design.
• "Vincent Van Duysen: Works 2009-2018" – A striking collection of architectural and interior projects defined by purity and restraint.

Books for Collected and Eclectic Interiors

For those who love layered, storied spaces filled with personality and charm, these books celebrate the art of mixing and curating.

• "A House in Maine" by Nina Campbell – A glimpse into the richly layered world of one of Britain’s most beloved designers.
• "Rattan: A World of Elegance and Charm" – A visual delight, showcasing the timeless appeal of woven textures.
• "Soane Britain: The Art of Elegant Design" – A beautifully illustrated book on craftsmanship and decorative arts.
• "An Entertaining Life" by Paolo Moschino & Philip Vergeylen – A look at grand, yet inviting spaces that celebrate life and style.
• "More is More: Tony Duquette" – A study in maximalism, color, and over-the-top beauty.

Books for French and European Interiors

For those who admire Parisian apartments, English country houses, and Italian villas, these books explore the effortless elegance of European style.

• "Jacques Grange: Recent Work" – A look at the luxurious yet livable interiors of the famed French designer.
• "French House Chic" by Jane Webster – A beautifully curated look at the most stylish French homes.
• "A Certain Style" by Tricia Guild – A celebration of color, pattern, and bold interiors.
• "The Private House" by Rose Tarlow – A study of sophisticated, timeless European-inspired design.
• "English Eccentric" by Ros Byam Shaw – A look at the charm and whimsy of quintessentially British interiors.

The Beauty of a Well-Chosen Design Library

A home should be a reflection of taste, history, and personal style—and the same is true of a library. Whether stacked elegantly on a coffee table, arranged on bookshelves, or kept as reference guides, these books serve as both tools for inspiration and decorative objects in their own right.

A beautifully curated collection of interior design books is more than just a source of knowledge—it is a testament to a lifelong love of beauty, craftsmanship, and the art of living well.

Reminders

• Select books that align with your design philosophy, whether classic, modern, or eclectic.
• Style your design books on coffee tables, consoles, or bookshelves, allowing them to serve as both inspiration and decor.
• Take time to browse, study, and absorb the wisdom of great designers—it refines the eye and deepens appreciation.
• Invest in timeless titles that remain relevant year after year, rather than fleeting trend-driven books.
• Treat design books as part of the home—objects that add beauty, knowledge, and quiet luxury to everyday life.

I Am Grateful for Today

1. The endless inspiration found within the pages of a well-chosen book.
2. The ability to refine personal taste through the wisdom of great designers.
3. The beauty of interiors that tell a story—collected, layered, and deeply lived in.

From Our House to Yours,
Mrs. Mayfair