The Best Books for Interior Designers in 2025
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Interior design is a constantly evolving field that requires a balance of creativity, technical knowledge, and industry awareness. Whether you're an aspiring designer, a student, or an experienced professional looking for inspiration, the right books can refine your skills, spark new ideas, and deepen your expertise.
This guide explores the best books for interior designers in 2025, covering topics such as fundamental design principles, emerging trends, business strategies, and design history. These books will help you stay ahead of the curve while fuelling your passion for beautiful, functional spaces.
1. Best Books for Learning Interior Design Fundamentals
For those starting in interior design, mastering the fundamentals is essential. These books provide a solid foundation in design principles, techniques, and industry best practices.
The Interior Design Handbook by Frida Ramstedt
Best for: Beginners looking for a structured guide to design principles.
Why it’s great: This book breaks down the science of interior design into easy-to-understand concepts. Ramstedt explains proportions, balance, and spatial planning with practical illustrations, making it a great starting point for beginners.
Elements of Style: Designing a Home & a Life by Erin Gates
Best for: Those looking to combine interior design with personal storytelling.
Why it’s great: This book blends beautiful photography with real-life design lessons, making it both engaging and educational. Gates shares insights into designing a space that feels authentic and personal.
Best for: Students and aspiring professionals.
Why it’s great: A step-by-step guide that covers everything from colour theory to lighting and furniture placement. It’s structured like a self-paced design course, making it perfect for those new to the field.
2. Best Books for Interior Design Inspiration
Sometimes, the best way to improve your craft is by studying the work of great designers. These books showcase stunning interiors and provide inspiration for your own projects.
Made for Living: Collected Interiors for All Sorts of Styles by Amber Lewis
Best for: Designers seeking inspiration for layering textures, colours, and materials.
Why it’s great: Amber Lewis showcases her signature California-cool style with practical advice on making spaces feel curated and lived-in.
Live Beautiful by Athena Calderone
Best for: Those who appreciate refined, elegant interiors with a modern touch.
Why it’s great: This book takes readers inside the homes of top designers, artists, and creatives, offering insight into how beautiful spaces are curated.
Kelly Wearstler: Evocative Style by Kelly Wearstler
Best for: Designers interested in bold, statement-making interiors.
Why it’s great: Wearstler is known for her fearless approach to colour, materials, and pattern mixing. This book is a must-have for those looking to push boundaries in design.
3. Best Books on Interior Design Trends & Materials
To stay competitive, designers must be aware of emerging trends and sustainable practices. These books provide insight into what’s shaping the future of interior design.
The Modern House by Jonathan Bell
Best for: Designers who want to understand contemporary residential architecture and interiors.
Why it’s great: A visually stunning book that explores modernist homes and how they integrate with their surroundings.
Best for: Designers who prioritize sustainability.
Why it’s great: This book covers eco-friendly design principles, from material choices to energy-efficient solutions.
Transmaterial Next: A Catalog of Materials that Redefine Our Future by Blaine Brownell
Best for: Designers who want to explore innovative materials.
Why it’s great: Brownell delves into the latest advancements in materials, from smart surfaces to recycled composites, helping designers make informed choices.
4. Best Business & Marketing Books for Interior Designers
Running a successful interior design business requires more than creative skills. These books focus on branding, marketing, and business growth.
The Business of Design: Balancing Creativity and Profitability by Keith Granet
Best for: Designers looking to turn their passion into a profitable business.
Why it’s great: Granet shares practical insights on project management, pricing, and client relationships.
Branding + Interior Design: Visibility and Business Strategy for Interior Designers by Kim Kuhteubl
Best for: Designers who want to build a strong brand and attract clients.
Why it’s great: This book covers social media strategies, brand positioning, and how to communicate design expertise effectively.
5. Best Books on Interior Design History & Theory
Understanding the history of interior design provides valuable context for contemporary projects. These books explore design movements, influential figures, and architectural evolution.
The Decoration of Houses by Alexandra Stoddard
Best for: Designers who appreciate timeless principles of decoration.
Why it’s great: Based on the classic 1897 book by Edith Wharton and Ogden Codman Jr., this modern version explores how traditional design concepts remain relevant today.
Designing Interiors by Rosemary Kilmer and W. Otie Kilmer
Best for: Those interested in the academic study of interior design.
Why it’s great: Covers historical influences, design psychology, and spatial planning techniques.
The Story of Eames Furniture by Marilyn Neuhart
Best for: Fans of mid-century modern design.
Why it’s great: This book provides an in-depth look at the legendary Eames design philosophy and its impact on modern interiors.
Final Thoughts
Whether you're looking to learn the fundamentals, find inspiration, stay ahead of trends, grow your business, or explore design history, these books offer valuable insights.
For beginners, The Interior Design Handbook and Interior Design Course provide an excellent starting point.
If you’re focused on branding and business growth, The Business of Design is a must-read.
If you’re drawn to design history, Designing Interiors and The Story of Eames Furniture will expand your knowledge.
Investing in the right books will help you refine your style, gain confidence, and stay inspired in the world of interior design.
“I believe that if you are true to expressing yourself, coupled with the right amount of discipline and routine, your space can reflect your personality, and you can turn your home into your haven.”
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