As the nights grow longer, there’s nothing better than cozying up with a good book—especially when its pages are filled with endlessly inspiring imagery. We’ve compiled a list of this season’s best new design books perfect for holiday-season gifting (or keeping). From an ode to one of America’s most legendary style icons to a tour of a restored Sicilian monastery, there’s a book just right for keeping everyone’s spirits high.
For the Frill-Seeker
Authored by FREDERIC’s content director Emma Bazilian and art director Stephanie Diaz, Charm School is an ode to old-fashioned decorating details—think skirted tables, floral chintz, and wicker galore—reinterpreted for modern-day living by decorators like Summer Thornton and Rita Konig. While the book isn’t officially out until March 2023, we’ve pulled a few strings to have a limited number of copies released just in time for this holiday gifting season!
CHARM SCHOOL: THE Schumacher Guide to Traditional Decorating for Today (MONACELLI), $55, SHOPSCHUMACHER.COM
For the Museum-Worthy Table
Just in time for holiday gatherings, this new book by Jane Schulak and David Stark will motivate even the most confident hosts to make every meal an experience beyond the plate. Featuring the work of modern-day artisans mixed with antique and vintage treasures, it’s also an ode to craftsmanship.
At the Artisan’s Table (VENDOME), $65, barnesandnoble.com
For the Refined Palate
A true “designer’s designer,” Suzanne Kasler’s collection of new work is further proof of her enduring expertise. Bursting with indispensable advise for living with art, creating a welcoming home, and much more, Edited Style holds the key to mastering her polished panache.
Suzanne Kasler: Edited Style (Rizzoli), $58, barnesandnoble.com
For the Maximum Impact
Nothing short of magnificent, Carl Dellatore’s new book is not for the faint of heart. Vibrancy abounds in this collection of maximalist rooms by award-winning designers, including Ken Fulk, Corey Damen Jenkins, and Bunny Williams. With an introduction by FREDERIC’s own editor-in-chief Dara Caponigro, it’s a must-read for any design enthusiast.
More Is More: Today’s Maximalist Interiors (Rizzoli), $55, barnesandnoble.com
For the Love of All Things Green
From modern art to historic homes across Europe, Carlos Mota dives into all things gloriously green in nature, art, architecture, and design. If you aren’t a fan of the expressive shade, this book is sure to change your mind.
G: Forever Green (Vendome), $85, barnesandnoble.com
For the Jet-Setting Francophile
Nothing cures the winter blues quite like losing oneself in daydreams of stunning interiors in far-flung places. Considered an heir to the great French designers Jacques Grange and Alberto Pinto, Jean-Louis Deniot’s timeless designs are guaranteed to inspire and delight.
Jean-Louis Deniot: Destinations (Rizzoli), $65, barnesandnoble.com
For the Modern Traditionalist
Respected for his discerning eye and dedication to fine craftsmanship, Stewart Manger’s debut book is an ode to artful design, melding contemporary and traditional with remarkable ingenuity.
Romancing the Home: Stylish Interiors for a Modern Lifestyle (Rizzoli), $50, barnesandnoble.com
For the Design Scholar
When Stephen Sills completes a project, you know it will be a showstopper. In his newest monograph, the design icon shares lessons for creating breathtaking interiors that seasoned designers and enthusiasts alike will enjoy for years to come.
Stephen Sills: A Vision For Design (Rizzoli), $65, barnesandnoble.com
For the Creative Craftsman
Forever challenging conventional shingle concepts, Thomas Kligerman’s new work will inspire even the staunchest of traditionalists. Kligerman has proved to be a true master of honoring history and reimagining tried-and-true practices for an enduring future.
Shingle and Stone: Thomas Kligerman Houses (Monacelli), $75, barnesandnoble.com
For the Italian Romantic
Jacques Garcia’s sumptuous restoration of a Sicilian monastery refreshes exquisite baroque designs with modern flourishes and a richness only found in Italian villas of the past. With exquisite photography and elegant prose, A Sicilian Dream: Villa Elena will transport you to the southern Italian state no matter where you are.
Jacques Garcia: A Sicilian Dream: Villa Elena (Rizzoli), $85, barnesandnoble.com
For the Easygoing Innovator
Anyone averse to modernism will be instantly converted by the warmth and lyricism of Orlando Diaz-Azcuy’s work in this meticulously designed monograph, which proves that clean-lined interiors can still be endlessly soulful in his masterful hands.
Soul: Interiors by Orlando Diaz-Azcuy (Rizzoli), $65, barnesandnoble.com
For the Next-Generation Society Swans
An invitation into the inimitable Deeda Blair’s graceful and intriguing world is an invitation that can’t be missed! With eloquent tips for setting a table and hosting an unforgettable dinner party, inspiration abounds in this book from one of America’s most legendary social butterflies.
Deeda Blair: Food, Flowers, & Fantasy (Rizzoli), $60, barnesandnoble.com
