Author: Jessica Cole
Interior Designer & Enthusiast
When it comes to mastering the art of interior design, the right resources can make all the difference. Whether you’re a professional designer or an enthusiast, these top 10 Interior Design Reference books are essential for your library. Each book has been carefully selected to offer you the best insights, techniques, and inspiration to elevate your design skills.
A Curated Collection of Interior Design Reference Books
In the world of interior design, having the right references at your fingertips is crucial. From understanding space planning to mastering lighting, these books cover it all. Here’s a detailed look at the top 10 Interior Design Reference books you should consider adding to your collection.
10. Elle Décor – The World’s Most Stylish Homes
Author: The editors of Elle Decor
Rating: 
(4.0 out of 5 stars) – 45 ratings
Elle Décor – The World’s Most Stylish Homes is an eye-catching collection of some of the most elegant and stylish homes around the globe. With insights from top designers, this book is a treasure trove of inspiration.
Why You’ll Love It: This book offers a rare glimpse into the homes of the rich and famous, making it both aspirational and educational.
Fun Fact: Elle Décor has been a leading voice in interior design for decades, and this book captures their signature style beautifully.
Category: Interior Design Reference
9. THE LIGHT DOCTOR: Using Light to Boost Health, Improve Sleep, and Live Longer
Author: Dr. Martin Moore-Ede
Rating: (4.7 out of 5 stars) – 31 ratings
THE LIGHT DOCTOR: Using Light to Boost Health, Improve Sleep, and Live Longer dives into the fascinating world of light design and its impact on our well-being. This book is a must-have for anyone looking to incorporate healthier lighting solutions in their designs.
Why You’ll Love It: Learn how to use light not just for aesthetics but also to enhance health and productivity.
Fun Fact: Dr. Martin Moore-Ede is a renowned expert in the field of circadian rhythms, making this book a valuable resource for understanding the science behind lighting.
Category: Interior Design Reference
8. Lighting Design Basics
Author: Mark Karlen
Rating: (5.0 out of 5 stars) – 3 ratings
Lighting Design Basics is an essential guide for anyone looking to master the fundamentals of lighting in interior design. This book simplifies complex concepts, making them accessible to both beginners and professionals.
Why You’ll Love It: The clear, step-by-step instructions make this a go-to resource for understanding lighting principles.
Fun Fact: Mark Karlen has decades of experience in lighting design, and this book reflects his vast knowledge in the field.
Category: Interior Design Reference
7. Time-Saver Standards for Interior Design and Space Planning, 2nd Edition
Author: Julius Panero
Rating: (4.4 out of 5 stars) – 241 ratings
Time-Saver Standards for Interior Design and Space Planning, 2nd Edition is a comprehensive reference that provides the essential standards and guidelines needed for effective space planning.
Why You’ll Love It: It’s an indispensable resource for ensuring that your designs meet industry standards.
Fun Fact: This book is widely used in academic settings, making it a trusted source for interior design students and professionals alike.
Category: Interior Design Reference
6. Fundamentals of Lighting: Bundle Book + Studio Access Card
Author: Susan Winchip
Rating: (4.7 out of 5 stars) – 5 ratings
Fundamentals of Lighting: Bundle Book + Studio Access Card is a comprehensive guide that covers everything from the basics of lighting to advanced concepts.
Why You’ll Love It: The inclusion of a studio access card adds extra value, allowing you to apply what you’ve learned through practical exercises.
Fun Fact: This book is part of a popular series used by design students across the globe, making it both a learning tool and a reference guide.
Category: Interior Design Reference
5. Portfolio Design for Interiors
Author: Harold Linton
Rating: (4.4 out of 5 stars) – 23 ratings
Portfolio Design for Interiors is an invaluable resource for anyone looking to build a strong portfolio that showcases their interior design work.
Why You’ll Love It: This book guides you through the process of creating a professional and impactful portfolio, essential for career success.
Fun Fact: Harold Linton has written several influential books on design, and his expertise is evident in this detailed guide.
Category: Interior Design Reference
4. The Architecture of the Classical Interior (Classical America Series in Art and Architecture)
Author: Steven W. Semes
Rating: (5.0 out of 5 stars) – 6 ratings
The Architecture of the Classical Interior is a must-read for anyone interested in the principles of classical architecture and interior design.
Why You’ll Love It: This book offers a deep dive into classical interior design, providing timeless principles that can be applied in modern contexts.
Fun Fact: The Classical America Series is renowned for its focus on preserving and promoting classical design principles.
Category: Interior Design Reference
3. The Architecture Of Light (2nd Edition): A textbook of procedures and practices for the Architect, Interior Designer, and Lighting Designer
Author: Sage Russell
Rating: (4.8 out of 5 stars) – 136 ratings
The Architecture Of Light is an essential reference that covers the intricacies of lighting design with a focus on practical application.
Why You’ll Love It: This book is known for its clear explanations and practical approaches, making it a favorite among both students and professionals.
Fun Fact: Sage Russell is a respected figure in the lighting design community, and his books are often used in professional development courses.
Category: Interior Design Reference
2. Lighting Design Basics
Author: Mark Karlen
Rating: (4.6 out of 5 stars) – 122 ratings
Lighting Design Basics provides a comprehensive introduction to lighting design, perfect for beginners and experienced designers alike.
Why You’ll Love It: The book’s straightforward approach makes it easy to understand and apply lighting principles to real-world projects.
Fun Fact: This book is widely regarded as a staple in interior design education, often featured in design curricula.
Category: Interior Design Reference
1. The Automated Lighting Programmer’s Handbook
Author: Brad Schiller
Rating: (4.6 out of 5 stars) – 16 ratings
The Automated Lighting Programmer’s Handbook is the ultimate guide for anyone interested in mastering the art of automated lighting design.
Why You’ll Love It: This book is an excellent resource for understanding the technical aspects of lighting programming, making it invaluable for professionals in the field.
Fun Fact: Brad Schiller is a pioneer in the field of automated lighting, and his expertise shines through in this comprehensive handbook.
Category: Interior Design Reference
A Wealth of Knowledge at Your Fingertips
These top 10 Interior Design Reference books offer invaluable insights and practical advice for anyone looking to enhance their design skills. Each book on this list has been selected for its unique contribution to the field, providing you with a comprehensive library that covers every aspect of interior design.
Check out some more Top10 categories here.
Disclaimer: “As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.”
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