While jumping right into design and getting your hands dirty is thrilling, we can’t forget the multitude of seriously helpful interior design books out there. In preparation for the release of Havenly’s upcoming design guidebook, Design the Home You Love (which we encourage you to pre-order ASAP), we chatted with Shelby Girard, Havenly’s VP of Creative & Design, about the best interior design books.
The Newcomer
Design the Home You Love by Lee Mayer and Emily Motayed
Please excuse our fangirling over the soon-to-be-released Havenly home design book by none other than Havenly founders Lee Mayer and Emily Motayed. Design the Home You Love is a home design book that provides an “accessible approach to discovering your unique style and implementing it at home.” We’re looking forward to actionable, expert tips and achievable style from Mayer and Motayed that will for sure make this your new favorite interior design book.
The Grows-with-You Pick
Made for Living by Amber Lewis
Amber Lewis’ interior design book, Made for Living takes you from decorating beginner to design master with her tips and tricks on textile layering, perfect paint shades, and everything in-between (it’s also a stunning coffee table must-have). “We’re big fans of Amber Lewis’ warm aesthetic,” Shelby says, “and this book is full of inspiring spaces from her portfolio.”
The Boho Book
Jungalow: Decorate Wild by Justina Blakeney
Lovers of Bohemian and globally inspired styles will appreciate this lively and colorful home design book from Justina Blakeney — it’s just what the doctor ordered when your home needs a little shaking up. “We loved Justina’s New Bohemian books and are anxiously awaiting her new release, which we know will provide even more inspiration around using bold colors and patterns in our homes,” Shelby says.
For Eclectic, Artful Inspo
Golden Light: The Interior Design of Nicky Kehoe by Todd Nickey and Amy Kehoe
You’ve probably heard of the adored Nickey Kehoe design firm, but if you haven’t, you’re in for a treat. When it comes to interior design books that leave you feeling both cozy and inspired, Golden Light is top-tier, Shelby says. This home design book enchants with photos of beautiful spaces that feel lived-in, personal, and completely unique. The pair are also masters at creating eclectic, artful spaces that aren’t busy or fussy. You’ll have a whole new arsenal of design and styling ideas at your fingertips.
The Design Resource
Live Beautiful by Athena Calderone
Intertwining the concepts of beauty, practicality, and truly elevated living seems effortless after reading Athena Calderon’s Live Beautiful. This exceptional interior design resource showcases Calderone’s stunning home, as well as the homes of her friends (all designers and tastemakers, of course) while also providing tips on how to bring the essence of style into your own space.
The Minimalist Pick
This is Home by Natalie Walton
Whether you’re feeling a need for cleansing your space or simply love the idea of more minimalist living, Natalie Walton’s home design book, This is Home, guides you through easy-to-navigate styling and the beauty of simple design. “This book is full of simple spaces that prove you don’t need a huge budget to make your home beautiful,” Shelby shares. “I love the pared-down aesthetic embraced by Walton’s designer guidebook.”
The Intentional Pick
Still: The Slow Home by Natalie Walton
Another favorite by designer Natalie Walton, Still: The Slow Home is all about honoring how design relates to its greater surroundings. With a focus on the SLOW movement (Sustainable, Local, Organic, and Whole), Walton’s home design book is “full of inspiration on creating a home that is not only sustainable but also allows you to slow down and reflect.” Added bonus: Chris Warnes has us swooning over his photography yet again.
With so many books, you might just need to design a library. We can help with that… get started with our style quiz.