Design books are not only a must-have for scholars but also for those willing to redecorate or brush up on their design knowledge. Stocking up Design books is never a loss deal for anyone, be it a non-designer, reading one will always bring some knowledge and kindle curiosity to know more. Reading such books carves the foundation for any beginner or strengthens the knowledge structure of any designer.
Listed are a few books that should be on every reader’s shelves –
1) On Decorating by Mark Hampton
This design book crafted with the author’s watercolor drawings is a design Bible for amateurs and decorators. The book by Mark Hampton – a celebrated American decorator, inspires and encourages with rich design history and wisdom. It does not entail a fixed method to redecorate a space but indeed transforms the perspective of the reader of looking at a particular space and understanding design from that very point of view.
2) The Secret Lives Of Color by Kassia St. Clair
It is a design book that elucidates the social and cultural history of colors. It reveals the significance of every color and brings to the limelight each of their personalities. It is a source of inspiration for experimenting with varying tones and hues while designing any space. It takes you on a journey of exploring the world of colors. Isn’t that exciting!
3) The House in Good Taste: Design Advice From America’s First Interior Decorator by Elsie de Wolfe
The first lady interior decorator of America – Elsie de Wolfe, pens down her experiences and wisdom for the budding designers to enhance their sense of designing and elevate their taste with her advice. This 1913 design book explains how to decorate a space to make it aesthetically pleasing and livable in a very friendly tone. The book documents the author’s approach to designing and decorating spaces and narrates her philosophies and principles.Â
4) Interiors: The Greatest Rooms of the Century by Phaidon editors
This one is a collection of around 400 spaces from around the world by some 300 inspirational artists whose knowledge is imparted through their works featured in the book. It embraces interior decor and designers on a global level by discussing beach houses to tiny apartments and narrating the design ideas incorporated in each by their respective eminent designers. This design book is for all those who care about space and are even a bit interested in designing.
5) The Decoration of Houses by Edith Wharton and Ogden Codman Jr.
This is an interior design guide published by Edith Wharton along with an architect Ogden Codman in 1897 for the first time. The design book talks about interior decor with overstuffed furniture and heavy window curtains, the Victorian kind in simpler terms. This one does not discuss the decor ideas but argues about the heavy decor incorporated at the expense of planning and advice to keep it minimalist and simple. The author’s advice to date resonates with many of us and it is a must-have for minimal design lovers.
