Hello Lykkers! If you're looking to add that instant cozy factor to your space, let me tell you: books are where it's at.
Forget the usual suspects—pillows, throws, and candles—though we do love those too. When it comes to home accessories that instantly create a lived-in feel, nothing beats the charm of a well-placed book.
Books, especially coffee table books, are like little windows into your world. They tell stories, show off your interests, and give your space a touch of substance.
Sure, you can use trinkets, vases, and trays to style your shelves, but a book—especially a beautifully designed one—has a way of transforming a room. It adds depth, sparks conversation, and most importantly, it makes a room feel warm and inviting.
Now that we’re all on the same page about how amazing books are for decorating, let’s talk about how to style them. There’s no right or wrong here, but there are some simple tricks to make sure your books are the stars of the show.
Start with stacking a few of them together. You can create a cute little vignette by layering them under a decorative object or lamp. The key here is to stack in odd numbers—three books often works like a charm. Place the largest book at the bottom, and the rest will follow suit.
For round coffee tables, think of creating a triangle shape. Stack your books in one corner, add a plant or a candle to another corner, and maybe a tray or small decorative object to fill the last one. For square tables, divide the space into quadrants. You could keep it simple with four stacks of books, or mix in candles or a vase to bring some height and texture into the mix.
If you want to encourage your guests to actually flip through those gorgeous coffee table books, why not use a book stand to display a specific page? It’s not just functional—it’s an interactive way to show off your book collection.
Here are some of my favorite design-focused books that’ll not only make your space look stylish but offer a deeper dive into the world of interiors:
Fans of Shea McGee’s timeless, cozy aesthetic will adore this book. It gives you a behind-the-scenes look into her design process, filled with beautiful images and practical tips you can apply in your own space.
For lovers of celebrity homes and iconic interiors, this book celebrates 100 years of Architectural Digest with glimpses inside the homes of legends like David Bowie, Jennifer Aniston, and Barack and Michelle Obama.
Amber Lewis dives into how the little details—paint, flooring, furniture—can transform a space. This book is a must for anyone feeling overwhelmed by design choices and looking to create stunning interiors, step-by-step.
Jake Arnold’s book showcases his design philosophy of mixing moody colors, natural textures, and a balance of vintage and contemporary elements. It’s packed with personal insights and behind-the-scenes content.
Emily Henderson’s book is an essential for anyone looking to refresh their home. She breaks down her design “rules” and gives you the confidence to know when to follow them—and when to break them.
The beauty of coffee table books is that they don’t have to live just on your coffee table. You can display them on your nightstands, bookshelves, or end tables to add that cozy, lived-in vibe to any room. The key is to find spots where they’ll shine and be seen, giving your space an effortless, layered feel.
There’s something about having a few well-placed books around your home that instantly elevates the space. Whether it’s a design book that sparks inspiration or a collection of your favorite reads, books are an accessory that never go out of style. So, next time you’re looking to cozy up your space, remember: A good book (or a few) is all you need! Happy decorating, Lykkers!