In Home Style Tips

The hottest home decor books you should have read by now

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Do you know the must-have home decor books right now? Those you’re about to see on every single respectable coffee table?

Don’t be the last one to find out. You don’t want to miss all the style tips and advice from these wonderful authors.

I’ve read and reviewed the hottest home decor books of the moment. You will love them for sure. And if you’re feeling lucky, you can enter the giveaway to win them all!

Transparency notice: Wordery has donated all these books for the giveaway below. They have also gifted me with some books of my choice. All gifted items are marked with an asterisk (*). You can read the full ad disclaimer.

Home decor books: a feast for your eyes, mind and creativity

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Whether you are an interior design aficionado or professional, home decor books are here to inspire your creativity and cultivate your mind. Their pages are packed with expert advice and the most splendid homes on the planet.

This blog was launched with a book giveaway, remember my top 10 interior design books? Meera from First Sense Interiors was the happy winner, and it makes me smile when I spot the books in her Instagram photos. To celebrate the first anniversary of Boreal Abode I’m going back to basics with brand new books to review — and a giveaway!

The place where all the cool books live

Let me share with you my secret. The store where I bought most of the books for last year’s giveaway. It’s my online bookshop — say Hi to Wordery! I first spotted them as they kept coming up with the best prices on comparison sites. And with over 10 million titles available I’m sure they have the book you want. But the best part? Free (worldwide) delivery with no minimum order.

It’s not just about bestsellers and big names. Wordery also works closely with self-published writers and independent publishers. As well as providing guidance to those thinking about self-publishing. Who knows? Maybe one day someone will write a blog post like this including a home decor book written by me. Watch this space — I just need two more days in the week.

The hottest home decor books you should have read by now

These books have been handpicked for their quality, style and freshness — all published over the last year or so. We all love a coffee-table book, but these picks stand out for their content, not their cover.

Read below and discover why you need to add these books to your collection. Don’t be the last one to read them! Time to drop hints to your loved ones. Maybe send them this blog post? No, it’s not too obvious.

The Scandinavian Home, by Niki Brantmark*

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The author

Niki Brantmark belongs to the exclusive circle of Interior Design Blogeratti. I may have made that up, but she’s in the coveted top 10 list of design bloggers worldwide. Her blog, My Scandinavian Home, was inspired by her move from London to Sweden ten years ago. She’s also the author of Modern Pastoral — a book featured on last year’s giveaway.

The book

In The Scandinavian Home, Niki guides you through ten beautiful and impressive homes. They’re grouped in different chapters based on their location and style: urban living, country homes and rural retreats. All these homes have a few elements in common such as the addition of quirky antiques (lots of stuff from Morocco and China), handmade items and classic Scandinavian design pieces.

STYLE TIP: It’s better to take time layering your home with items that tell a story and have a sense of purpose. — Niki Brantmark

The verdict

It’s an absolute pleasure to go through the pages of this book and be inspired by the photographs. Not just the interiors, but also the landscape and nature around them. By the lake, on the beach, in the mountains… These homes are made to fit all seasons from the long Summer days to the chilly white Winters. This is the book that encapsulates the essence of the Scandinavian home.

Extraordinary Interiors, by Jane Rockett and Lucy St George

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The authors

Jane Rockett and Lucy St George are close friends and self-confessed design junkies. They are the remarkable women behind the renowned online interiors emporium Rockett St George. Over the last ten years, their boutique has grown to become a solid alternative to mass-produced chain store products. You can find unique pieces from designers, artists and manufacturers around the world.

The book

In Extraordinary Interiors, Jane and Lucy cover the key concepts of interior decoration sharing their experiences and anecdotes along the way. As seasoned stylists, photographers and home renovators, they help you make the right decisions based on your lifestyle. And if you’re looking for inspiration, this book features the finest eclectic homes full of style and personality — not for the faint-hearted.

The verdict

What I like the most about this book is how they feature mainly real-life British homes. Not trendy townhouses in Brooklyn or fancy apartments in Paris (actually, there is a Parisian apartment in the book and it’s my favourite). There is a heavy focus on maximalist eclectic interiors. And whilst it may not be everyone’s cup of tea, it’s refreshing to see a different decor style on the bookshelves.

Get It Together! by Orlando Soria*

JUAN’S TOP PICK

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The author

Where do I start? Orlando Soria is an L.A.-based interior designer, visual artist, writer and blogger at Hommemaker. His designs have featured on every single big design website. And he has worked for Emily Henderson Design and Homepolish. Orlando is often on the top lists of designers to follow on Instagram — because of his comic Stories.

The book

Orlando has A LOT to share with you. Luckily, all his knowledge is organised in five neat chapters. You have design tips like “Creating a Space that Reflects Your Awful Personality”. And DIY projects including “Make Your Own Goddamn Coffee Table”. I find “How to Refresh Your Nasty-Ass Overgrown Succulent” helpful as it’s something nobody talks about.

A home decor book shouldn’t be fun, but why not? Get It Together is fresh, and it’s packed with brutally honest advice. Think half interiors, half self-help. When I read this book, I had no idea I would find out “What to Do When All Your Friends Have Babies at Once” or “What to Do When You’ve Been Laid Off and Your Life Is Ruined Forever.”

STYLE TIP: Splurge on one distinctive piece that people will notice and then finish the space out with junk from the bargain basement or stuff you literally found next to a trash can. — Orlando Soria

The verdict

This is what happens when the author doesn’t take himself too seriously and wants you to have fun with interior decorating. The perfect combination of expert advice, sassy humour, California cool interiors and personal oversharing (including detailed childhood traumas and relationship break-ups). It’s more than an interiors book, it’s a life guide according to Orlando Soria.

Is it over the top? Yes. Shall you buy it? Well, of course! It’s my favourite, and I guarantee you will laugh with every chapter. If you buy only one home decor book, make it this one.

New Nordic Colour, by Antonia af Petersens

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The author

Antonia af Petersens is a Swedish freelance editor and writer. She has collaborated with many publications and design magazines as well as being the former editor for Houzz Sweden. If you like travelling, you may enjoy Antonia’s other book, The 500 Hidden Secrets of Stockholm. I know little more about the author, but why not follow her on Instagram and say Hallå?

The book

New Nordic Colour is a pleasant surprise. I was expecting to read yet another home decor book with pretty homes and a dash of colour. I was wrong — this book is a revelation. Antonia documents three interior design substyles that take colour to a whole different level: dark eclectic, bold accents and majestic pastels. Mix those with Scandinavian architectural features and the result is just delicious.

The verdict

This is the future of Scandi interiors. While The Scandinavian Home above focuses on the present Nordic interior style, New Nordic Colour takes you on a journey to discover what’s coming next. And let me tell you it’s an exciting new chapter after two long decades of white walls and bleached furniture. You’re about to witness one of the biggest interior design trend shifts of our time.

Mad About The House, by Kate Watson-Smyth

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The author

Kate Watson-Smyth needs no introduction, but I’m writing one, anyway. Chances are you already read her UK number one interiors blog, Mad About The House. And also follow her on Instagram. In fact, she’s one of the top ten interiors accounts to follow according to British Vogue. A journalist by trade, Kate is also the author of Shades of Grey and offers design consultancy services.

The book

Let’s be honest here if you already own one of these books it’s likely to be this one. Mad About The House is the home decor best-selling book of the year because it’s packed with useful tips and advice. On the outside it may appear like your usual coffee-table book — the looks are important in this industry. Inside you find a comprehensive decorating manual.

Kate takes you through every room in the house from the hallway to the bathroom. She shares her expert tips on lighting, flooring, furniture arrangement, etc. The initial chapters focus on finding your own decorating style, choosing paint colours and the dangers of Pinterest. And if that’s not enough, Kate also reveals her top 10 design hacks.

STYLE TIP: Your home should be a reflection of who you are and who lives there. This means that you have to include pieces that you have collected through your life and have them on display as well as things that you love whether they are old or new. — Kate Watson-Smyth

The verdict

This is the book you need if you have questions like “how big does the rug need to be?” or “how high do you hang art on the walls?” Kate’s book is a complete reference of style tips. Yes, you may know some of them already. But the real value is not in the tips, but how the author shares advice based on her design consultancy experience and real-life case studies.

It’s your lucky day! This is your chance to win them all

Oh, no! The giveaway has now ended. Don’t be the last one to find out next time. Join the monthly newsletter now to get exclusive design articles and access secret giveaways!

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Juan Sandiego

I’m an Interiors & Wellbeing Coach with a passion for design and the science of happiness. I help home renovators create their ideal home and lifestyle so they can live happy and stress-free. Want to try it? Book your free session today.

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28 Comments

  1. Penny H
    6 years ago

    They look fabulous – I am buying a house which is a blank canvas so I’m excited to start collecting ideas for it. Thanks very much for the giveaway which I have entered 🙂

    Reply
    1. Juan Sandiego
      6 years ago

      Thank you for your comment, Penny! That’s exciting. You’d definitely need Mad About The House and Get It Together. Good luck!

      Reply
  2. Jumi Awomosu
    6 years ago

    Wow Juan another excellent post from you! So well written! … I love the fact that you did an editors pick and to be honest that one sounds like the best to me too! Buy one statement piece and then fill the rest with junk from the scrapyard ?????? just hilarious! I’d love to win this collection you made it sound so juicy…so of course I will be entering! I will also be checking out wordery too sounds like a fantastic resource for creative minds xxx

    Reply
    1. Juan Sandiego
      6 years ago

      Thank you for your comment, Jumi! You always write such meaningful words. I’m so happy you entered the giveaway. Lot’s of luck! You’ll definitely like Get It Together. I didn’t share other controversial chapter titles but you’ll see…

      Reply
  3. Anne Marie
    6 years ago

    Wow! What a great and helpful post. I didn’t actually know about the existence of two of them books and they are defenitely on my list now! That Get it together book is a definite must have ( and no, it has nothing to do with that blue sofa on the cover…ok, maybe a little ??)

    Reply
    1. Juan Sandiego
      6 years ago

      Thank you for your comment, Anne Marie! I knew you were going to like that cover, hehe. Get It Together has all the Cali Cool vibes you need. And the Spanish style is also amazing (even though I wasn’t a fan). Good luck in the giveaway!

      Reply
  4. Meera
    6 years ago

    You know how to pick your books, Juan! All these look absolutely fantastic and now I must have them all! Thank you for your very helpful reviews of them. Thank you also for the mention, I was so so thrilled to win your first book giveaway. The books are dotted on shelves in different rooms, and every time I pick one to read, I think of you. 🙂 Thanks to you, I’m never short of interior inspiration!

    Reply
    1. Juan Sandiego
      6 years ago

      Thank you for your comment, Meera! I hope the book reviews are helpful. It’s been a busy month with all the reading! Good luck with this giveaway. More inspiration may be on the way!

      Reply
  5. Ingrid Opstad
    6 years ago

    What a great post. Some of these are new to me, others I knew about but do not own (yet) so fingers crossed for the giveaway. After moving so much I do not own many books, but soon my plan is to start my collection, so thank you for sharing your tips!

    Reply
    1. Juan Sandiego
      6 years ago

      Thank you for your comment, Ingrid! I’m sure your book collection will grow very quickly. Good luck with the giveaway!

      Reply
  6. Catherine
    6 years ago

    This is wonderful! I hadn’t even heard of some of these books so I will go and check them out! Thank you for sharing!

    Reply
    1. Juan Sandiego
      6 years ago

      Thank you for your comment, Catherine! Some of these are a little more obscure, but still great books to read.

      Reply
  7. Lin
    6 years ago

    Very excited to hear about the new Nordic Colour, would love to read more about that – and think I really need the ‘Get it together’ ! I love interior design that doesn’t take it’s self too seriously !

    Reply
    1. Juan Sandiego
      6 years ago

      Thank you for your comment, Lin! I think you’ll like New Nordic Colour a lot. It’s the kind of style I see in your mood boards.

      Reply
  8. Karen
    6 years ago

    I’m SO very behind with my reading but all of these are firmly on my wishlist! I’ve for Kate’s book on order and am now eyeing up the Nordic Colour one 🙂

    Reply
    1. Juan Sandiego
      6 years ago

      Thank you for your comment, Karen! Kate’s book is packed with so many tips and it’s beautiful written and edited. New Nordic Colour is a revelation! So bold yet still essentially Scandi.

      Reply
  9. Donna Ford
    6 years ago

    What a great selection Juan. I only have Kate’s book so dying to get the rest, esp new Nordic colour – that is RIGHT up my street!

    Reply
    1. Juan Sandiego
      6 years ago

      Thank you for your comment, Donna! Kate’s book is a well-deserved best seller. I think you’re going to enjoy New Nordic Colour. Some of the colour schemes remind me of the ones you use!

      Reply
  10. Abi | These Four Walls blog
    6 years ago

    So many good book suggestions here. A few I know and love, and a couple of new ones to try too.

    Reply
    1. Juan Sandiego
      6 years ago

      Thank you for your comment, Abi! Hope you enjoy your new book discoveries ?

      Reply
  11. Sam - Dove Cottage Blog
    6 years ago

    I’m ashamed to admit I don’t own any of these books! I must sort that out and get hold of some of these as they book really inspirational. Great post, really helpful!

    Reply
    1. Juan Sandiego
      6 years ago

      Thank you for your comment, Sam! I’d say the essential ones are Mad About The House and Get It Together. I’m sure you’ll love them!

      Reply
  12. Pati
    6 years ago

    i love some of them and let me tell you one thing i am so gutted i forgot to enter this amazing giveaway x

    Reply
    1. Juan Sandiego
      6 years ago

      Thank you for your comment, Pati! There will be more book giveaways for sure. Maybe next year with a fresh batch of books ?

      Reply
  13. Mary| hellopeagreen
    6 years ago

    Totally brilliant select Juan. I have 3 of them and hadn’t even seen Get It Together! by Orlando Soria – so that’s a new one to me. I’m a big fan to design and decor books and spend more than I should on them. Just don’t tell my husband.

    Reply
    1. Juan Sandiego
      6 years ago

      Thank you for your comment, Mary! Make sure you add Get It Together to your list. One more book for the collection (and your husband may not notice). ?

      Reply
  14. Natalie Holden
    6 years ago

    Great recommendations! Will have to bookmark your page 🙂 x

    Reply
    1. Juan Sandiego
      6 years ago

      Thank you for your comment, Natalie! Hope you found the book reviews useful.

      Reply

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