For the love of books...

As a mom and a designer, my book collection is really important to me.  Design books offer up new inspiration, different ways to tackle space planning issues and keep you on top of the current trends.  Cristina and I reference our design books all the time when we're brainstorming ideas and concepts for our clients.  Not only that, books can be a fantastic way to add layering to make any space feel finished.  A carefully arranged bookcase, filled with treasured books can be beautiful and functional.  Don't get me wrong, I love blogs and that instant jolt of inspiration that comes from the internet but there is nothing quite like holding a crisp new book in your hands.  I'm looking to add to my design book collection and I thought I would share some of my favourites with you.

What are your favourites?  Let us know...

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 This is certainly not a new book but it is the perfect antidote for those of us still mourning the loss of the Domino magazine.  Tons of inspiration in this little green beauty!

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Decorate is new on the market this year and beautifully presented by the American blogger (now living in Germany) Holly Becker.  Holly writes the hugely popular blog Decor8 and has now published this fantastic book.  I was thrilled and pleasantly surprised at just how much I love this book.  Even my Mom commented on it and said "Wow, where did you get that great book?"  It's absolutely packed with unexpected colour combos, tips and resources for all kinds of budgets.  

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Are you sick of me raving about Tricia Guild yet?  Everything she does is magical in my eyes!  This is her older book but it's her best by far.  Really, the perfect book for all of us who love bold, unexpected pattern and colour combos.

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How could you not love the quirky, clever title on this one?  And for anyone who has ever stepped foot in my house knows that this is definitely my motto!  I love that this book confirms to all the designers out there, that there really are no more "rules" in decorating anymore.  

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I'll be honest, I hesitated putting this book on my favourites list.  The feminist in me thinks the title is ridiculous!  Sure, the publisher was probably trying to be cute and catchy but honestly "How to be Adored" Really, who cares!?  However, the shallow designer in me took over and this book is really  too outrageously beautiful to not be on my bookcase. 

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Not a design book but more of a cook book with design tips, this one is chock full of delightful recipes and pretty ideas for table settings.  Practical and pretty!  A book for everyone. 

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I simply had to add this lovely book.  I admit I'm partial to it, my husband recited the poem "She Walks in Beauty" to me at our wedding almost ten years ago.  (Right now I'm really wishing I had a video of that to accompany this post!)  So although it's not a design book, I think it's important to fill your book shelves with all different kinds of books.  What you read and hold dear is the true expression of who you really are. 

Enjoy and happy reading!