I am a big reader.  I love most books on a wide range of topics.  I am always on the lookout for new titles which may provide new ideas and inspirations.  There are a few coffee table books in the design category which I find myself reading again and again to pick up new learning’s.  I thought I would share some of my favorites with you today.

#1) Decorating Master Class by Elissa Cullmann

This book is the best ‘design’ book I have read in terms of offering practical tips and advice, with rationale to back up the recommendations.  If you are undertaking a ground up new build project you will come across so many questions, such as where to place the light switch plates, at what height to hang your wall sconces, etc.  This book is a can’t miss if you really need to dig into the details.

2) Interior Wisdom Designing Your Heart and Home for the Lord by Leah Richardson

The photography in this book really captures my imagination.  The rooms are light and airy.  A little bit New Orleans, a little bit coastal.  I love that the rooms are sophisticated yet the spaces are never unapproachable.  Leah has written a book from a different viewpoint which has you taking an inventory of your lifestyle and your ‘stuff’ while crafting a vision and execution of a decorating plan for your home.  She ties Biblical principles to creating a peaceful, relaxing home for you, your family, and your guests.

3) Barclay Butera Living in Style by Barclay Butera

I can look at the pictures in this book again and again.  Barclay Butera has created a ‘lifestyle’ that is very Southern California, but transfers across different environments: ocean, desert, mountain and city.  Barclay has expanded into offering merchandise now via furnishings, fabrics and even candles to help implement his lifestyle in your home.

4) To Your Taste by Celerie Kemble

I have so many clients who say the are ‘traditional’ and then proceed to qualify it with ‘but not…’.  If you consider yourself ‘new traditional’ (i.e. not your grandmother’s swags and tassels) but struggle to articulate what that means, this book may be for you.  The subtitle is: “Creating Modern Rooms with a Traditional Twist”.

The next 5 books I really enjoy for the photography above anything else:

5) Suzanne Kasler Inspired Interiors

6) Victoria Hagan Interior Portraits

Great millwork in Victoria’s projects!

7)  At Home: A Style for Today with Things from the Past by Suzanne Rheinstein

8) Mary McDonald Interiors: The Allure of Style Mary McDonald

If you liked the Bravo show Million Dollar Decorators you will enjoy this book.

9) & 10) Michael S. Smith: Elements of Style & Houses

Michael S. Smith’s designs are timeless.  Not over the top and showy.  Elegantly put together and will stand the test of time.  Michael S. Smith has another book you can pre-order now: Kitchens & Baths.

Speaking of not yet released books, be sure to keep your eye out for the first book from Phoebe Howard, The Joy of Decorating, to be released the spring of 2012!

I know there are a lot of books here, which may or may not be a good thing depending on your point of view!  I would recommend starting at the top of the list and working your way down if you don’t know where to begin.  Otherwise, if you want to do some research, look these up on Barnes and Noble or Amazon.  Otherwise, we do have a few of these titles in stock, you can stop by Heather Scott Home & Design and peruse our selection!  Hope to see you soon!