Interior design isn’t learned solely through practice — it’s also shaped by theory, reading, and visual inspiration.
Whether you’re just starting out or have years of experience, this selection of books will help you refine your style, better understand your clients, and strengthen your design concepts and execution.
Here are 10 essential books for any interior designer, architect, or furniture design professional:
1. Interior Design Illustrated
Author: Francis D.K. Ching
Publisher: Wiley
First Edition: 1987
Summary:
A true classic. This book explains the fundamentals of interior design through clear illustrations and accessible technical concepts. Ideal for students and professionals looking to reinforce the structural foundation of their designs.
2. The Interior Design Handbook
Author: Frida Ramstedt
Publisher: Clarkson Potter
First Edition: 2020
Summary:
A Scandinavian bestseller that offers a guide without photos — focusing on the core principles that make a space work. Proportions, light, flow, and emotional experience are explained with clarity and practicality.
3. Domino: The Book of Decorating
Authors: Deborah Needleman, Sara Ruffin Costello & Dara Caponigro
Publisher: Simon & Schuster
First Edition: 2008
Summary:
Visual, inspiring, and practical. This book blends creative ideas with step-by-step guidance for every type of space. Perfect for those looking to combine personal style with functionality.
4. Interior Design Since 1900
Author: Anne Massey
Publisher: Thames & Hudson
First Edition: 1990
Summary:
A historical overview of the major movements in interior design throughout the 20th century. A must-read to understand how styles have evolved and how they influence today’s projects.
5. Made for Living
Author: Amber Lewis
Publisher: Clarkson Potter
First Edition: 2020
Summary:
Amber Lewis, a popular designer on social media, shares her vision of warm, lived-in homes. While highly visual, her narrative is grounded in practical, real-world applications.
6. A Frame for Life
Author: Ilse Crawford
Publisher: Rizzoli
First Edition: 2014
Summary:
Crawford offers an emotional and sensory approach to interior design. Her spaces are not only beautiful — they feel right. This book is more of a design philosophy than just a collection of projects.
7. Designing Interiors
Authors: Rosemary Kilmer & W. Otie Kilmer
Publisher: Wiley
First Edition: 2003
Summary:
More academic and technical. Ideal for those who want to dive deep into ergonomics, space planning, user needs analysis, and the foundations of professional interior design.
8. The Perfectly Imperfect Home
Author: Deborah Needleman
Publisher: Potter Style
First Edition: 2011
Summary:
A more editorial, romantic take on design. Though it has a lifestyle feel, it’s filled with practical tips on how to inject personality into a space without following strict rules.
9. Elements of Style: Designing a Home & a Life
Author: Erin Gates
Publisher: Atria Books
First Edition: 2014
Summary:
A design book with a personal narrative. Erin Gates combines real design lessons with personal anecdotes, making it both inspirational and practical.
10. The Architecture of Happiness
Author: Alain de Botton
Publisher: Penguin
First Edition: 2006
Summary:
Not a technical manual, but a philosophical essay on how spaces affect our emotions and behavior. A must-read for designers who believe in the transformative power of environments.
Our Professional Opinion
Specialized reading not only deepens your technical knowledge — it also sharpens your critical and aesthetic vision. Whether you’re seeking to better understand your clients, evolve your approach, or simply enjoy design from a new perspective, these books will be your best allies.
