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20 coffee table books our editors love – and how to style them
The art of styling a coffee table extends beyond mere aesthetics, encompassing a careful selection of items that reflect personal interests and contribute to the overall ambiance of a room. Coffee table books, while often an afterthought, are central to this design philosophy, serving as both decorative elements and conversational starters. The content of these books is paramount, as they should genuinely resonate with the homeowner's passions, whether those are travel, food, art, or lifestyle. Selecting books that align with one's identity ensures they are not just visual props but meaningful additions to the living space.
Beyond content, the physical attributes of the books, such as texture and size, play a crucial role in creating a balanced display. Oversized or chunky books can dominate a coffee table, while excessively small ones may appear insignificant. The aim is to achieve a harmonious arrangement where books complement other decorative elements without overwhelming the space. This involves thoughtfully considering the interplay between different items to create an inviting and visually appealing focal point.
Interior designer Laura Hammett emphasizes that coffee table styling is an art form. She advises starting with a foundational piece, such as a large tray, to group and anchor smaller items, thereby establishing a sense of order. Books are deemed essential for their ability to add a personal touch and spark conversations. To infuse warmth and life into the arrangement, Hammett suggests incorporating elements like candles and fresh flowers. Personal decorative objects, such as sculptural bowls or elegant paperweights, can further enhance interest and individuality. The overarching principle is to maintain balance and avoid clutter, ensuring that each item contributes to a cohesive and inviting display.
Red magazine's editors offer specific examples of books that exemplify these styling principles, showcasing a diverse range of topics from coastal Italian summers and high society photography to fashion icons, sustainable home design, and historical architecture. These selections highlight various genres, including art, fashion, travel, and design, each chosen for its aesthetic appeal and the rich narrative it brings to a living space. For instance, "Il Dolce Far Niente: The Italian Way of Summer" by Lucy Laucht, chosen by the Editor in Chief, evokes the spirit of summer in coastal Italy. "Slim Aarons: Women" by Homes Editor Bella Evennett-Watts captures the extraordinary women who influenced the photographer's work, while "Carolyn Bessette Kennedy: A Life in Fashion" celebrates a style icon's timeless beauty and legacy. "Gray Malin: Beaches" offers a visual journey across global coastlines, and "Soho House: Morning Noon Night" provides an inside look at interior design and lifestyle.
Other notable selections include "Life in Pictures," a photo album with an elegant terracotta cover; "The Reimagined Home: Sustainable Spaces Created with Joy," which advocates for sustainable design practices; and "Vivian Maier: Street Photographer," an exploration of portraiture and identity through iconic photographs. Fashion and art are represented by books like "Chanel: The Allure of Makeup," a tribute to the house's makeup creation story, and "Sicily Honor," which delves into the island's rich history and culture. Architectural interests are covered by "The Barbican Estate," celebrating a brutalist icon, and "Eames," highlighting transformative forces in design history. "Women's Work: From Feminine Arts to Feminist Art" examines radical change in art, while "Dorothea Lange: Seeing People" focuses on her iconic photographs. "Pucci (Updated Edition)" showcases the elegance and innovation of the designer, and "Menu Design in Europe" offers an encyclopedic look at gustatory customs. "The Half: Photographs of Actors Preparing for the Stage" provides an intimate look at actors, and "Gabrielle Chanel" is the official exhibition book. Finally, "Yoshitomo Nara" explores three decades of the artist's work, and "Flower: Exploring the World in Bloom" celebrates the beauty of flowers in art and history. Each of these books, curated by the editors, not only enriches the intellectual landscape of a home but also serves as a sophisticated element in coffee table styling.
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