8 Interior Design Books To Read In 2025

Interior design is an art that combines creativity, aesthetics, and functionality to create beautiful and livable spaces. If you're looking for inspiration, the right books can give you invaluable information. Below is a list of 8 interior design books that will help you refine your style and transform your home.

1. The Interior Design Handbook by Frida Ramstedt

This book is a must-have for anyone looking to master interior design fundamentals. It focuses on essential principles such as balance, proportion, and color theory, making it ideal for beginners and professionals alike. Unlike traditional design books filled with glossy images, this handbook prioritizes practical guidance and timeless rules that can be applied to any space. Ramstedt emphasizes the importance of functional design, helping readers understand how to arrange furniture, optimize lighting, and create cohesive color palettes. Whether you're redecorating a single room or an entire house, this book serves as an essential reference for achieving a well-balanced home.

2. Elements of Style by Erin Gates

Erin Gates brings a personal touch to this engaging interior design book. With a mix of practical advice, DIY tips, and inspirational photography, she guides readers through decorating their homes in a way that reflects their personality. Gates shares her own experiences, including design challenges and triumphs, making the book relatable and insightful. The book covers a wide range of styles, from modern to traditional, and includes tips on mixing patterns, choosing color schemes, and incorporating statement pieces. Whether you’re a novice or a seasoned decorator, Elements of Style provides creative ideas that can elevate any space.

3. Homebody by Joanna Gaines

Written by the renowned Fixer Upper star, Joanna Gaines, this book delves into creating a cozy, inviting home that reflects your personal style. Gaines provides step-by-step design advice for different rooms, incorporating her signature rustic farmhouse aesthetic. The book also includes helpful checklists and prompts to help you develop your unique design style. Gaines emphasizes the emotional connection between people and their homes, encouraging readers to design spaces that feel welcoming and comfortable. With a focus on natural materials, vintage accents, and warm color palettes, Homebody is an essential read for those who love farmhouse and rustic designs.

4. The New Bohemians by Justina Blakeney

For those drawn to bohemian style, "The New Bohemians" by Justina Blakeney is a perfect guide. It dives deep into the eclectic, artistic, and laid-back nature of bohemian interiors. This book explores layered textures, rich colors, and bold patterns, all integral components of the boho style. Justina Blakeney provides advice on how to mix vintage finds with modern pieces, embrace sustainability, and create inviting, relaxed spaces. The book also features a variety of interviews with designers who specialize in the bohemian aesthetic, giving readers a behind-the-scenes look at how they incorporate boho chic into their designs. If you’re interested in creating spaces that feel lived-in, comfortable, and filled with personality, this book is an essential resource.

5. Habitat by Lauren Liess

Lauren Liess brings a fresh, nature-inspired perspective to interior design in this beautifully illustrated book. Known for her organic and timeless aesthetic, Liess emphasizes the use of natural materials, earthy tones, and functional layouts. She walks readers through the principles of decorating with a focus on texture, light, and personal expression. Filled with stunning photography, design tips, and real-life home transformations, this book is perfect for anyone seeking an inviting and livable space. Habitat is both a practical guide and an inspiring read, making it an essential addition to any interior design collection.

6. Living with Pattern by Rebecca Atwood

If you want to embrace pattern in your interior design, "Living with Pattern: Color, Texture, and Print at Home" by Rebecca Atwood is an indispensable guide. Atwood explores how to introduce bold prints and patterns into your home without overwhelming the space. She provides expert advice on how to pair prints with solid colors, how to layer different textures, and how to create harmony with contrasting patterns. This book is filled with vibrant photography and practical insights on how to design a space that feels alive, modern, and full of energy. Whether you're incorporating floral prints, geometric patterns, or stripes, Atwood teaches you how to balance and curate prints so that they work cohesively in any room.

7. The Kinfolk Home: Interiors for Slow Living by Nathan Williams

Minimalism and simplicity take center stage in this beautifully curated book. The Kinfolk aesthetic is all about creating meaningful, intentional spaces that promote comfort and serenity. If you are drawn to Scandinavian design and minimalist interiors, this book will be a valuable resource. Williams presents homes that emphasize natural materials, neutral tones, and uncluttered spaces. The book also includes interviews with homeowners and designers, offering insight into how they create peaceful, functional environments. The Kinfolk Home is ideal for anyone looking to embrace a slower, more mindful approach to interior design.

8. Live Beautiful by Athena Calderone

Athena Calderone, the creator of EyeSwoon, takes readers inside the stunning homes of interior designers and creatives. The book provides deep insights into how to style spaces with texture, light, and curated objects. Each chapter is filled with practical tips to help readers achieve a refined and cohesive look. Calderone emphasizes the importance of storytelling in design, showing how each home reflects the personality of its inhabitants. She also offers styling advice, including how to mix vintage and modern elements, making this book a must-read for those looking to create visually striking interiors.

Conclusion

In the world of interior design, these eight books stand out as essential resources for anyone looking to elevate their living spaces. These books offer valuable insights and beautiful inspiration that will help you understand the intricacies of design and improve your home’s aesthetics.