10 Best Interior Design Books 2026 in the United States

‘Architectural Digest at 100: A Century of Style’ is a visually stunning hardcover book published by Abrams Books. With its large dimensions and 464 pages, it is quite substantial and offers a rich look into the world of interior design over the last century.

The book’s content focuses on showcasing iconic styles and influential interior designs featured in Architectural Digest, making it ideal for those interested in high-end and historical interior design trends. The strong visual appeal, bolstered by high-quality photographs and illustrations, makes it an excellent coffee table book that can be both informative and decorative. The expertise of the editors of Architectural Digest lends credibility and depth to the content, ensuring readers get insights from some of the best in the field.

Due to its weight and size, it may not be the most practical for casual reading or carrying around. This book is best suited for design enthusiasts, professionals in the interior design industry, or anyone looking to get inspired by century-old style excellence. The book’s best seller status suggests a positive reception among readers. It’s a valuable addition to the library of anyone serious about interior design.

Ralph Lauren's 'A Way of Living: Home, Design, Inspiration' is a comprehensive hardcover book that delves into the world of interior design, showcasing the unique style and vision of the renowned designer. With 544 pages of content, the book is a substantial read, offering a rich blend of inspiration and practical advice for home design enthusiasts. The book's dimensions are 9.3 x 2 x 12 inches and it weighs 7.2 pounds, making it a sizable addition to any coffee table or bookshelf.

Published by Rizzoli in September 2023, the book is written in English and is available with ISBN-13: 978-0847872145 and ISBN-10: 0847872149. Ralph Lauren's expertise in the field of design is unquestionable, and this book reflects his deep understanding and passion for creating beautiful living spaces. The content is visually appealing, filled with high-quality photographs and illustrations that capture the essence of Lauren's design philosophy.

The book's large size and weight may make it less portable and more suited for home use. Additionally, while the book is a great source of inspiration, it may be more geared towards those who are already familiar with interior design concepts rather than complete beginners. 'Ralph Lauren A Way of Living: Home, Design, Inspiration' is an excellent choice for design enthusiasts looking to immerse themselves in Ralph Lauren's world, though its practicality may be limited for on-the-go reading or for those new to interior design.

The PPI NCIDQ Interior Design Reference Manual, Seventh Edition, is a comprehensive guide designed for both aspiring and practicing interior designers. Authored by David Kent Ballast, a well-respected figure in the field with multiple publications under his belt, the book focuses on preparing readers for the NCIDQ certification exam. The content is thorough, covering a wide range of topics essential for the exam, making it an excellent study resource for those aiming to pass the NCIDQ test.

One of its strengths lies in its detailed explanations and practical examples, which help readers understand complex concepts more easily. However, the book's dense and technical nature may not be as appealing to casual readers or those looking for more visually driven content. At 702 pages, it is quite hefty and may feel overwhelming to those new to the field.

Additionally, while it is packed with information, the black-and-white format might not engage users who prefer vibrant, colorful visuals typically found in design books. For its intended audience – serious students and professionals preparing for certification – it is a valuable asset. With a solid reputation in the industry and a specific focus on exam preparation, this manual is best suited for individuals who are committed to advancing their career in interior design through certification.