The Art of the Coffee Table Book

If there’s one item that effortlessly blends form and function in home design, it’s the coffee table book. More than just decor, these oversized books are a reflection of your interests—and a perfect way to add personality to any space.

Coffee table books anchor vignettes, add height to layered objects, and offer a tactile break from our screen-heavy lives. Whether stacked in piles or opened to a favorite page, they invite curiosity and spark conversation.

How to Style Your Coffee Table Books

  • Stacked: Layer 2–3 books of varying sizes to create a base for candles, catchalls, or sculptural accents.

  • Open: Flip to a standout page that complements your room’s mood or season (Shown here: Henry Taylor, shop below)

    • Tip: Use a small object to keep the page open — I used my grandpa’s old lighter here for a personal touch.

  • Color-coded: Group books with similar spine colors for a streamlined, intentional look.

A coffee table book isn’t just a book—it’s an anchor, a mood-setter, a conversation starter. Choose wisely, display boldly, and let your space tell your story.

Grace House Rule: Only select books that you actually enjoy. Think of them as a reflection of you—your travels, your taste, your obsessions. A few favorite themes? Interior design, architecture, fashion photography, vintage travel guided, botanical illustrations, and bold art monographs. I’ve compiled a few of my favorites by category in The Shop for you to explore!


SHOP THE SCAPE

Shop the featured decor or discover similar pieces to style your own scape

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A Coffee Table in Summer Bloom

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Vol 1: Grace Whitman