Coffee table books are great conversation starters and a stylish way to elevate the look of any living space. From fashion and design to art and culture, these books serve as a reflection of your personal interests and tastes.
We’ve curated a list of the best photography books and coffee table picture books for your home. Whether you’re looking for breathtaking landscapes or inspirational home décor ideas, there’s something for everyone. Our list covers photography books on travel, fashion and food to picture books featuring the art of Yayoi Kusama. These titles are aesthetically pleasing and also packed with valuable insights and inspiration that will last a lifetime.
How to decorate with coffee table books
- Start with a focal point: Choose a coffee table book you love and use it as the centerpiece of your table. This will set the tone for the rest of your decor.
- Mix and match: Don’t be afraid to mix and match different sizes, colours and styles of coffee table books. This will create a dynamic and interesting display. Tip: stick to odd number groupings. Three is an ideal number.
- Use bookends: Bookends can help to keep your books in place and add to the overall aesthetic. Choose bookends that complement the style and colour scheme of your room.
- Stack and layer: Use different heights and shapes to create a layered and interesting display. You can stack books on top of each other or use them to create a base for other decorative items.
- Add other decorative elements: Layer up and add decorative accessories, such as flowers, candles, a tray or vase. Use these items to create a cohesive and visually pleasing display.
Some stylish books to buy (2023)
Accidentally Wes Anderson
$42.68 $70.62 39% off
If you love: Kitsch and travel
A beautiful tribute to filmmaker Anderson’s unique style and the joy of discovering unexpected and visually striking places. It’s a great choice for fans of Wes Anderson’s films or anyone who appreciates colourful and whimsical design. The photographs in the book are accompanied by information about the location and its history, making it an interesting and informative read as well.
Kinfolk Islands
$41 $77.04 47% off
If you love: Beautiful travel photography
This collection of 18 travel stories takes you on a journey to islands big and small, including unexpected destinations like Hormux, off the coast of Iran, and the psychedelic scenery and bohemian spirit of Italy’s sun-soaked Ponza. Filled with vibrant photography, practical guidance and thoughtful reflections, Kinfolk Islands is the perfect choice for those seeking inspiration for their next escape.
Hayao Miyazake
$64.20
If you love: Studio Ghibli films
This book is a treasure trove of Miyazaki’s sketches, storyboards and stills from his films. It also covers his early days as an animator, the founding of Studio Ghibli and the creation of some of his most beloved films, such as My Neighbour Totoro, Spirited Away and Princess Mononoke.
Architectural Digest at 100: A Century of Style
$128.51
If you love: Aspirational interior design
Celebrating the 100th anniversary of the renowned design and architecture magazine Architectural Digest, the photography book features a curated selection of the magazine’s most iconic interiors, including historic estates, contemporary spaces, and celebrity homes. It includes over 400 photographs and essays from design experts and celebrities who have been featured in the magazine over the years.
Pantone: The Twentieth Century in Colour
$48.85
If you love: Colour theory and design
This is a visual exploration of colour through the 20th century, with each decade represented by its own colour palette. The book includes a range of images, from advertising and fashion to film and art, each accompanied by a description of the colours used and the historical context of the image.
Yayoi Kusama
from $106
If you love: Bright colours in art
Yayoi Kusama’s art is well loved by many, thanks to the popularity of her exhibitions and Louis Vuitton collaboration. This coffee table book is an explosion of colour, looking at her entire career as an artist. It also contains reproductions of Kusama’s works in full colour.
Plant Tribe: Living Happily Ever After With Plants
$28.85 $59.92 52% off
If you love: Plants (green thumbs not necessary)
The book is written by the founders of the popular blog and online community “Urban Jungle Bloggers”, which is dedicated to all things green and stylish. Plant Tribe is beautifully designed and illustrated, with gorgeous photographs of plant-filled homes and spaces.
Domino: The Book of Decorating
$35.01 $57.95 40% off
If you love: Practical ways to decorate your home
Not only does this book showcase inspiring photographs of real homes, it also includes easy-to-follow tips and tricks to decorating your home in a way that reflects your personal style. It was written by the editors of the popular home design magazine Domino and is based on their philosophy that everyone can have a beautiful, comfortable, and functional home, regardless of budget or size.
Tom Ford
$160.03
If you love: Fashion
Lavishly illustrated, this stunning book features the iconic designer’s work in fashion, film, and photography. Authored by Tom Ford himself, with contributions from fashion editors and personalities like Graydon Carter and Anna Wintour, this book chronicles Ford’s meteoric rise in the fashion industry, from his early days to his time at Gucci and his current eponymous fashion and beauty brand.
Singapore Through 19th Century Photographs
$48.60
If you love: History and old-school photography
With over 200 photographs, many of which have never been published before, this book provides a unique glimpse into the early history and development of Singapore. The photographs capture a wide range of subjects, including people, architecture, landscapes, and street scenes. Flip the pages and see if you can trace any familiar sights over the last 200 years.
Singapore Sketchbook: An Island Observed
$35 $45 22% off
If you love: Watercolour illustrations
For a more contemporary look at Singapore, this pretty book covers the city’s bustling streets, landmarks and quiet parks. Author and illustrator Graham Byfield’s sketches capture the essence of Singapore’s diverse and vibrant culture, and is a lovely tribute to our city’s unique character and charm.
Al Fresco: Inspired Ideas For Outdoor Living
$49.09 $60.46 19% off
If you love: Aesthetic food
Gorgeous photos of delicious food abound in this joyful book. Al Fresco is a guide to creating beautiful and functional outdoor spaces that are perfect for entertaining, relaxing and enjoying the great outdoors. You’ll find inspiring ideas and practical tips on how to create an outdoor space of your own, even if all you have is a small balcony.
Eat, Drink, Nap
$57.05
If you love: Hotel-style design and the Soho House style
Soho House is a global collection of private members’ clubs, and are well known for their stylish interiors and unique experiences. Beautifully designed and illustrated, the book is organised into three sections “Eat”, “Drink” and “Nap”, covering topics from menus and table settings to cocktail recipes and bedroom design. Also included are stunning photographs of Soho House properties around the world, and tips and advice for creating a stylish and comfortable home.
Letters of Note: Correspondence Deserving of a Wider Audience
$44.08
If you love: Historical personalities and reading
With reproductions of the original letters and notes providing context and insight, Letters of Note is a wonderful journey looking at some of the most famous figures in history. By reading their letters, you get a glimpse into their personal lives and thoughts through their correspondence. Famous figures include musicians, artists, authors, politicians and scientists such as Leonardo da Vinci, Albert Einstein and Elvis Presley. The letters range from heartfelt love letters to humorous notes and even angry letters. A great conversation starter, as well as providing colour and interest to your coffee table.
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