Interior design books: Timeless resources for all styles and skill levels

Whether you’re a curious beginner or an experienced professional, diving into interior design books can transform the way you see and use your space.

Interior design is more than just decorating a room — it’s about creating harmony between space, function, and personality.

These books are filled with invaluable insights, timeless wisdom, and cutting-edge ideas that bridge the gap between creativity and practicality.

In this article, we’ve selected some of the best interior design books to inspire your next project and elevate your design knowledge.

Stay with us to discover essential titles that should be part of every design lover’s collection.

The best interior design books you need to read

When selecting the best interior design books, we considered timeless relevance, practical guidance, visual inspiration, and their popularity among designers.

These selections cover a variety of styles and principles — from sustainable design to historical theory and contemporary aesthetics.

Sustainable Design: A Critical Guide by David Bergman

Sustainability is no longer a niche — it’s a design imperative. Sustainable Design: A Critical Guide by David Bergman is a vital resource for understanding how environmentally conscious design can be integrated into daily practice.

Unlike most books that highlight only eco-friendly materials, Bergman’s work goes further by examining systems thinking, life cycle analysis, and energy-conscious strategies.

This compact yet powerful book emphasizes the ethical role designers play in reducing the environmental impact of the built environment.

It is one of the most insightful interior design books for those who want to merge aesthetics with environmental responsibility.

The Decoration of Houses by Edith Wharton and Ogden Codman Jr.

Originally published in 1897, The Decoration of Houses remains a cornerstone in the design world.

Written by novelist Edith Wharton and architect Ogden Codman Jr., this book critiques the overly ornate Victorian style and proposes a new standard based on classical simplicity, symmetry, and proportion.

Its emphasis on architectural integrity rather than superfluous ornamentation continues to resonate with designers today.

As one of the best interior design books ever written, it lays the foundation for understanding the essential relationship between form and function in interior spaces.

The Grammar of Ornament by Owen Jones

Designers seeking a deep dive into global decorative history, patterns, and forms will be captivated by The Grammar of Ornament.

Owen Jones’s masterpiece offers a visual and theoretical exploration of ornamental design across cultures — from Islamic and Greek motifs to Renaissance and Indian patterns.

The book is structured as a series of 100 illustrated plates with commentary, making it an educational and inspiring reference.

This title is essential among interior design books for those looking to enrich their work with historical context and multicultural influences.

Color: A Course in Mastering the Art of Mixing Colours by Betty Edwards

Color is one of the most powerful tools in interior design, but mastering it can be daunting. In Color: A Course in Mastering the Art of Mixing Colours, Betty Edwards provides a practical, hands-on approach to understanding color relationships.

Known for her groundbreaking work in visual perception, Edwards teaches readers how to mix tones accurately, understand color harmony, and see color like an artist.

This book goes beyond theory, offering real exercises to train your eye and build confidence. If you’re looking for interior design books that offer applied skills, this one delivers.

Styled: Secrets for Arranging Rooms, from Tabletops to Bookshelves by Emily Henderson

Styled, by Emily Henderson, bridges the gap between interior styling and personal storytelling.

This visually stunning book is a modern favorite, offering step-by-step advice on how to arrange everything from coffee tables to entire rooms.

With over 1,000 design ideas and insights into discovering your personal style, Styled is both accessible and actionable.

Whether you’re decorating your first apartment or revamping your living room, this is one of the best interior design books to make any space feel uniquely yours without hiring a professional.

Interior Design Since 1900 by Anne Massey

Interior Design Since 1900 by Anne Massey is a deep historical dive into how design has evolved in response to cultural, technological, and social changes.

The fourth edition of this book expands its scope to include transnational styles, luxury hotel design, and the influence of modern art spaces.

Massey traces movements such as Art Deco, Bauhaus, postmodernism, and contemporary minimalism with precision and clarity.

For readers looking to understand the sociopolitical forces shaping interiors, this is one of the most informative interior design books available.

The Interior Design Handbook by Frida Ramstedt

For a more structured, principle-based approach, The Interior Design Handbook by Frida Ramstedt offers clear, practical guidance applicable to all types of interiors.

Unlike books filled only with pretty pictures, this one dives into the logic behind furniture placement, the golden ratio, lighting schemes, and the psychology of design.

It’s ideal for readers who want to understand not just what looks good, but why it works. With its accessible tone and rich illustrations, this is undoubtedly one of the best interior design books for creating cohesive, livable spaces.

The journey in interior design is ongoing, and the best way to grow is by continually seeking new perspectives and refining your eye.

These carefully selected interior design books serve not only as beautiful coffee table pieces but also as tools to inspire, educate, and elevate your personal or professional design projects.

Whether you’re interested in the history of ornamentation, the science of color, or the art of styling, each book on this list brings a unique layer of understanding to the subject.

For more design tips, ideas, and curated resources tailored to the South African market, keep exploring our blog and let your creativity flourish with every page.

Want a suggestion? Also read our content explaining how eco-friendly homes work!