15 Favorite Interior Design Books That Inspire Me Every Day at Home

I live surrounded by books on subjects that interest me.

Some people call "interior design books" coffee table books but interior design books are more than just beautiful pages. They are sources of inspiration, culture, and creative energy.

When you’re passionate about homes and design, especially as the founder of a brand rooted in artisanal craftsmanship, these books become companions in your creative journey.

They open windows to timeless styles, bold ideas, and personal universes that resonate deeply. For a creator, they’re not just references: they nourish the imagination, sharpen the eye, and often spark the next collection.

In a world that moves fast, taking time to turn pages is a way to reconnect with meaning, beauty, and intention. Today, I share with you a list of books, some recent and some not, that always inspire me. The numbers do not correspond to the order of preference, but are simply used to list them.

Feel free to share in the comments the interior design books that inspire you and accompany you in your daily life.

1. Live With the Things You Love: And You'll Live Happily Ever After

by Mary Randolph Carter

This book explores how our interiors reflect our personality and lifestyle, emphasizing the love of antiques and unique finds. Through the interiors of antique dealers, stylists, artists and shop owners, the author shows the importance of living surrounded by treasures that inspire us—whether they are antiques, childhood memories or precious gifts—and shares elegant tips for integrating these pieces in a creative way. A truly inspiring guide, “Live With the Things You Love” invites everyone to transform their home into an authentic reflection of their values and passions.

Why is it interesting?

1. Decor inspiration: It offers a multitude of ideas for decorating your living space with objects that have a history or personal meaning.
   
2. Personal approach: Carter shares his philosophy on the importance of living with the things we love, which makes the book both personal and informative.
   
3. Exploring interiors: The book presents a variety of unique interiors, ranging from an island in Maine to the Rhode Island countryside, each reflecting the style and passions of its occupants.
   

In short, “Live With the Things You Love” is an inspiring guide for those who wish to transform their home into a space that reflects their personality and values.

1. The history of basketry and its contemporary revival with Atelier Vime
   
2. Visits to the founders' homes throughout France (Provence, Brittany, Paris and Normandy)
   
3. Atelier Vime's unique creations, such as the Medici column vase and woven screens
   
4. Personal collections of classical and modern art, antique textiles and Provençal ceramics

I'm going to let you in on a secret: I dream of living the Atelier Vime life! What I mean by that is that I dream of an old house with character that is imperfect but charming. And above all, I dream, just like them, of bringing back a skill that is being lost and having a workshop-boutique on the ground floor!! So there you have it... and I hope to make it happen.

3. Inside Tangier: House & Gardens

by Nicolò Castellini Baldiserra and Guido Taroni

Published in 2019, this book showcases the eclectic interiors and gardens of both long-time residents and a new generation of inhabitants in this white-walled city perched between Morocco and Europe. This book will appeal to those interested in interior design, architecture, and the cultural history of Tangier.

Why it's interesting:

1. Cultural fusion: It highlights how residents blend Moroccan and European influences to create unique interior aesthetics
2. Historical significance: Tangier's reputation as a haven for artistic and literary avant-garde is explored through its architecture and design
3. Exclusive access: The book provides rare glimpses into private homes, including that of the late fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent
4. Diverse perspectives: It showcases a range of styles, from bohemian to luxurious, reflecting Tangier's eclectic character
5. Visual inspiration: The "mouthwateringly beautiful" photographs offer ideas for interior design and garden enthusiasts

This book appeals to those interested in interior design, architecture, and the cultural history of Tangier, offering a unique perspective on this fascinating Moroccan city.
Now living in Portugal and being so close to Morocco, Tangier is a destination that I am particularly fond of.

4. Curate: Inspiration for an Individual Home

by Lynda Gardener and Ali Heath

Curate is an inspiring interiors book that guides readers on how to create a home that reflects their personal story and style. The authors focus on timeless design principles rather than fleeting trends, pointing out the beauty of imperfections, monochrome aesthetics, and the thoughtful integration of vintage and modern elements.
The book is structured around eight key elements—palette, nature, textiles, lighting, old & new combinations, storage, collections, and art—and showcases ten unique homes ranging from historic cottages to converted warehouses.

Why it is interesting:

1. Personalized Design: The book encourages readers to embrace their individuality and curate spaces filled with meaningful objects.
2. Timeless Aesthetic: It promotes sustainable and enduring design through a mix of vintage finds and natural materials.
3. Visual Inspiration: Stunning photography by Marnie Hawson captures layered textures, nostalgic details, and soulful interiors.
4. Practical Insights: Each chapter includes Q&A sections with homeowners, offering insights into their creative processes and lifestyles.

Curate is ideal for anyone passionate about creating a home with character, history, and authenticity.
I love the universe and the personality of Lynda Gardener, whom I follow on Instagram. Everything seems simple, yet everything is refined, elegant and monochrome!

5. The Maverick Soul

by Miv Watts

This book is a captivating exploration of 25 authentic bohemian homes belonging to some of the world's most inspirational free spirits. Published in 2017, it offers a glimpse into the lives and living spaces of artists, musicians, writers, actors, stylists, and other creative individuals who have chosen to live life on their own terms.

The book features homes from various locations including Paris, London, Sydney, and New York. Notable subjects such as Marianne Faithfull, Simon Finch, Wendy Whiteley, Griffin Dunne, and Linda Rodin make it an incredibly inspiring book.

Why it's interesting:

1. Unique perspective: The book celebrates individuality and authenticity in home decor and lifestyle choices.
   
2. Diverse subjects: It features a wide range of creative personalities from different fields and backgrounds.
   
3. Visual inspiration: The photographs offer a wealth of ideas for those interested in bohemian and eclectic interior design.
   
4. Cultural insight: It provides a window into the lives of free-spirited individuals who challenge conventional norms.
   
5. Personal stories: The book goes beyond just showcasing interiors, offering insights into the lives and philosophies of its subjects.
   

Personally, I love The Maverick Soul because it is a celebration of uniqueness and self-expression. It is suitable for people who, like me, appreciate unconventional lifestyles and interior design that reflects individual personalities and experiences.

6. Artists at Home

by Susie Hodge

Artists at Home explores the private spaces of renowned artists, showing how their homes reflected and inspired their creative spirit. The book delves into the lives and workspaces of iconic figures such as William Morris, Pablo Picasso, Georgia O'Keeffe and Frida Kahlo, examining the architecture, interiors and environments that shaped their artistic output. Susie Hodge places the importance of the home at the center of each artist's practice, highlighting how these private spaces blur the boundaries between everyday life and creativity. Through vivid descriptions and ideas, readers gain a deeper understanding of how these homes served as both retreats and creative places.

Why is it interesting?

1. An insight into creativity: it reveals how personal spaces influence artistic expression.
2. A historical perspective: the book connects the lives of artists to their work through their environment.
   
3. A visual inspiration: the descriptions of unique interiors offer ideas to design enthusiasts.
4. A cultural exploration: it provides an insight into the lifestyle of some of the most influential artists in history.

I don't know if it's the same for you, but when I appreciate the work of an artist, I love to get to know their studio and their living space. Getting to know the world around them is the same as understanding a little of their creative process.

7. A Year in the French Style, Interiors and Entertaining 

by Vincent Farelly

In fact, you probably wouldn't buy this book if you weren't a fan of Antoinette Poisson.
Antoinette Poisson is a Parisian design team dedicated to the revival of the art of domino paper for interior decoration.

This captivating book offers readers an intimate look at their interior, as it focuses on Maison Lescop, a historic townhouse in Port-Louis, Brittany, which the authors have transformed into their home and creative project. It showcases their signature style, which blends 18th-century-inspired motifs with a modern sensibility.

The main features of the book are as follows:

1. A detailed exploration of domino paper techniques and their application in interior design.
   
2. - Seasonal French recipes inspired by old cookbooks.
   
3. An insight into traditional French craftsmanship and lifestyle, including markets, antique shops and textile dyeing.
4. Stunning photographs by Ruth Ribeaucourt capturing the beauty of French interiors and the French countryside.

Why is it interesting?

1. Cultural immersion: the book offers a deep dive into the French art de vivre, appealing to both Francophiles and design aficionados
   
2. Unique perspective on design: it presents the revival of 18th-century craftsmanship in a contemporary context
   
3. Lifestyle inspiration: readers discover how to create a home that reflects their personal style and history
4. Seasonal approach: the book follows the rhythm of French life throughout the year, offering a holistic vision of the French art of living
   
5. Expert contributions: it includes creative ideas from personalities such as John Derian and Clara Luciani.

This book is particularly appealing to me - coming from a French education - and those interested in French interior design, traditional craftsmanship and elegant art de vivre.

8. Maison - Parisian chic at home 

by Inès de La Fressange, Marin Montagut

The book explores 15 Parisian apartments, including those of the authors themselves. It celebrates the eclectic charm of Parisian interiors, mixing vintage and contemporary styles with personal touches such as flea market finds, family heirlooms and travel souvenirs. Each home reflects the personality and lifestyle of its owner, offering a blend of elegance, creativity and warmth.

The main features are as follows:

• Superb photographs and watercolor illustrations by Marin Montagut.
  
• Practical decorating tips and mood boards to inspire readers.
  
• A guide to Parisian boutiques for vintage decorating enthusiasts.
  

Why is it interesting?

1. Authentic Parisian style: it offers an intimate look at real homes that embody the natural chic of Parisian life.
2. Creative inspiration: the book provides practical ideas for mixing old and new elements in interior design.
3. Artistic presentation: superb visuals make it as much a work of art as a guide.
   
4. Cultural immersion: readers discover the Parisian art of living through its interiors.

There are several interiors that I love, including the homes of Inês and Marin, even though they have both since moved out. I recommend this book to design enthusiasts looking for inspiration in the timeless elegance of Parisian homes.

9. The Poetry of Spaces: A Guide To Creating Meaningful Interiors

by Sarah Andrews

The book explores Sarah Andrews' approach to creating beautiful and meaningful interiors. It focuses on five fundamental themes: light, life, instrument, matter and meaning. She shares examples of how these elements are used in homes around the world, offering readers a deeper understanding of interior style.

Why it's interesting:

1. A unique perspective: Andrews favors authenticity over trends, encouraging readers to create spaces that reflect their personal history.
2. Visual inspiration: The book features beautiful images of a variety of interiors.
   
3. Practical advice: It offers concrete tips that readers can apply to their own homes.
4. Cultural perspectives: The book explores how different spaces reflect the personality and lifestyle of their inhabitants.

This book is for those interested in interior design and looking to create meaningful and personalized living spaces.

10. Karl Lagerfeld: A Life in Houses 

by Patrick Mauriès and Marie Kalt

This book is a comprehensive exploration of the iconic fashion designer's various residences throughout his lifetime. It showcases Lagerfeld's eclectic taste in interior design, spanning from Art Deco to ultramodern styles.

Key features of the book include:

• Detailed looks at Lagerfeld's homes in Paris, Biarritz, Rome, and Hamburg
• Rare photographs of his early addresses from the 1960s and 1970s
• Insights into his design philosophy and collecting habits
• Introductions to each home by Marie Kalt, providing historical context and identifying key designers and pieces

Why it's interesting:

1. Unique perspective: The book offers a glimpse into Lagerfeld's private life through his living spaces, revealing a lesser-known side of the designer.
2. Design inspiration: It serves as a rich source of inspiration for interior design enthusiasts, showcasing a wide range of styles and eras.
3. Cultural significance: The homes reflect Lagerfeld's evolving tastes and his impact on both fashion and interior design over half a century.
4. Visual appeal: Presented in a large, elegant format with stunning photography, the book is as much an art piece as it is a design reference.
5. Historical value: It documents Lagerfeld's residences chronologically, providing insight into his personal and professional evolution.

Of course, the book will only appeal to Karl Lagerfeld fans and interior design enthusiasts. It is also very inspirational for those interested in the intersection of fashion and interior design, like me.

11. The Private World of Yves Saint Laurent & Pierre Bergé

by Robert Murphy

Like the previous book, this book offers an intimate look into the extraordinary homes of the legendary fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent and his lifelong partner, Pierre Bergé.

The book showcases eight stunning residences, including their Parisian apartment on Rue de Babylone, the Villa Majorelle in Marrakech, and Château Gabriel in Normandy. These homes are celebrated for their unparalleled collections of art, furniture, and décor, ranging from Renaissance masterpieces to Art Deco treasures.

The photographs capture the couple's refined taste and their ability to transform each residence into a story-filled sanctuary.

Why it's interesting:

1. Cultural significance: The book highlights the duo's influence not only in fashion but also in art and interior design.
2. Visual splendor: Ivan Terestchenko's photographs provide a rare glimpse into these luxurious spaces, showcasing their curated collections.
3. Historical insight: It documents the couple's passion for collecting and their role as tastemakers of the 20th century.
4. Inspirational design: The diversity of styles across their homes offers rich inspiration for interior enthusiasts.
5. Legacy of elegance: The book stands as a testament to Saint Laurent and Bergé's shared vision of beauty and connoisseurship.

This volume is ideal for admirers of Yves Saint Laurent, art collectors, and anyone fascinated by the intersection of fashion, art, and interior design.

12. Cabana Anthology

by Martina Mondadori Sartogo

Cabana Anthology is a luxurious coffee table book celebrating the 10 years anniversary of Cabana magazine, founded in 2014 by Martina Mondadori Sartogo.
The book features over 350 stunning photographs showcasing exquisite interiors, art, and design from around the world. But also interviews, profiles, and features from renowned contributors in the design world.
It is a mix of topics covering interior design, lifestyle, architecture, and luxury

Why it's interesting:

1. Visual splendor: The book offers exceptional production values and photography, reminiscent of the legendary Flair magazine from the 1950s.
2. Cultural exploration: It takes readers on a global journey, featuring spaces from London to remote villages in Algeria.
3. Unique perspective: The anthology celebrates the "intellectual and emotional intimacy with buildings and their surroundings," focusing on interiors that reflect personal history and soul.
4. Inspiration: It provides a fresh take on design, moving away from typical modern aesthetics to showcase pattern-filled, historically rich spaces.
5. Collector's item: With its limited edition status and high-quality production, the book is considered a must-have for design enthusiasts and Cabana magazine subscribers alike.

As I am already a fan of their magazine, I was attracted by the idea of having the contents compiled in a book, but I admit that as the price was high, I bought mine second-hand!

13. British Designers At Home

by Jenny Rose-Innes

For those who know me a little and follow me on Instagram, it's no secret that I'm passionate about English interiors. The reason? Their affirmation through color and wallpaper combined with a mix of eras in their furniture and decoration. So I couldn't miss this book!
This is a visually captivating book that profiles over 20 of the most prominent names in British design and decoration, showcasing their personal living spaces.

Why it's interesting:

1. Unique perspective: It provides a rare glimpse into the private spaces of renowned designers, revealing how they apply their expertise to their own homes.
2. Diverse styles: The book showcases a wide range of interior styles, from classic British looks to unexpected designs.
3. Personal insights: Each designer shares details about their working life, design philosophy, and the thinking behind their home's decoration.
4. Visual inspiration: With over 350 pages of stunning photography, it serves as a rich source of ideas for interior design enthusiasts.
5. Practical information: The book includes references to fabrics, paints, and furniture featured in the photographs, making it a valuable resource for readers looking to apply similar styles in their own homes.
6. Cultural significance: It offers a comprehensive look at contemporary British interior design, highlighting the evolution of styles and tastes in the field.

Those who follow me on Instagram will already have realized that I am fascinated by English interiors. I love their use of color and wallpaper as well as the mix of periods in their furniture.

14. Axel Vervoodt: wabi inspirations 

by Axel Vervoodt

This book by Belgian designer Axel Vervoordt explores the Japanese philosophy of Wabi, which values simplicity, authenticity, and the beauty of imperfection. Collaborating with Japanese architect Tatsuro Miki, Vervoordt applies these principles to his interior designs, creating serene and timeless spaces that harmonize natural materials, aged objects, and minimalist aesthetics.

The book is filled with stunning photography by Laziz Hamani, showcasing interiors from Japan, Korea, Belgium, and Switzerland.

Why it's interesting:

1. Unique philosophy: It introduces readers to the concept of Wabi and its application in modern design.
2. Visual inspiration: The photographs offer breathtaking examples of calm, harmonious interiors.
3. Cultural synthesis: Vervoordt blends Eastern and Western design traditions in a way that feels both timeless and innovative.
4. Practical takeaways: It inspires readers to embrace simplicity and natural beauty in their own spaces.

Perfect for design enthusiasts seeking inspiration from the intersection of philosophy and aesthetics.

15.  Rénover et Valoriser l'Ancien

by Alexandra Sliosberg 

Sorry, friends, this one is currently only available in French, but I'm sure some of you are fluent in that language, so here's the latest one!

This book is a practical yet visually appealing guide to renovating and modernizing older homes while preserving their charm. The book offers step-by-step advice on techniques such as restoring beams, enhancing terracotta tiles, applying plaster finishes, and repurposing vintage furniture or architectural elements. It also includes decorating tips to blend old and new styles seamlessly. QR codes throughout the book provide access to video tutorials and inspiring testimonials.

Why it's interesting:

1. Expert guidance: Written by an experienced artisan-decorator with over 15 years of expertise in restoring antique elements.
2. Hands-on approach: Offers detailed techniques and practical advice for DIY enthusiasts.
3. Modern-meets-traditional: Focuses on creating harmony between old-world charm and contemporary living.
4. Interactive content: Includes QR codes for additional resources like tutorials and interviews.
5. Inspiration-rich: Perfect for those passionate about sustainable design and giving new life to vintage pieces.

This book is ideal for anyone looking to renovate older properties with creativity and respect for their historical character.

All photographs courtesy of the publishers and authors