As you explore the world of interior design, having the right resources can dramatically influence your style and creativity. Whether you’re a novice looking to furnish your first space or a seasoned designer hunting for fresh inspiration, the right books can serve as invaluable guides. In this article, we’ll discuss the top interior design books under $50 you should consider adding to your collection in 2025. You’ll learn about their key features, strengths, and takeaways that will not only boost your design skills but also help you create your ideal living space.
Why Interior Design Books are Essential
Books offer a depth of knowledge that online articles may not cover. They provide insights into design principles, trends, and historical contexts. Moreover, a well-written design book can inspire and inform your decisions while allowing you to develop your unique aesthetic.
What You’ll Gain from This Article
In this article, you will discover:
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- A wide array of top interior design books under $50 to fit your budget.
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- Key features, pros and cons, and customer ratings for each book.
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- Practical advice on how to choose the right book based on your design goals.
Recommended Interior Design Books Under $50
1. “The Interior Design Reference & Specification Book”
Author: Chris Grimley & Mimi Love
Price: $37.95
Key Features:
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- Comprehensive overview of design elements including color theory, furniture design, and spatial planning.
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- Easy-to-navigate layout covers a variety of subjects that are essential for any interior designer.
Pros:
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- Great resource for both beginners and professionals.
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- Contains practical tips and helps simplify complex concepts.
Cons:
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- Some readers may find it a bit text-heavy.
Best For: Beginners and intermediate designers looking for a solid reference guide.
Average Customer Rating: 4.7/5 from 250 reviews.
Check it on Amazon!
2. “Styled: Secrets for Arranging Rooms, from Tabletops to Bookshelves”
Author: Emily Henderson
Price: $32.00
Key Features:
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- Step-by-step advice on how to style various areas of your home, from living rooms to home offices.
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- Focuses on creating visually appealing arrangements.
Pros:
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- Filled with beautiful photos that inspire creativity.
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- Offers practical and actionable styling techniques.
Cons:
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- Limited in-depth conceptual design discussions.
Best For: DIY enthusiasts and anyone looking to enhance their home decor skills.
Average Customer Rating: 4.8/5 from 400 reviews.
Check it on Amazon!
3. “Homebody: A Guide to Creating Spaces You Never Want to Leave”
Author: Joanna Gaines
Price: $29.99
Key Features:
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- Focuses on personalizing spaces to make them feel like home.
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- Offers design tips based on the principles of comfort and livability.
Pros:
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- Warm and inviting tone with stunning visuals.
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- Covers a wide range of styles and preferences.
Cons:
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- May not offer technical design information that professionals might seek.
Best For: Homeowners wanting to make their spaces more inviting.
Average Customer Rating: 4.9/5 from 1,200 reviews.
Check it on Amazon!
4. “The Little Book of Hygge: The Danish Way to Live Well”
Author: Meik Wiking
Price: $33.00
Key Features:
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- Presents the concept of “hygge” (comfort and coziness) in interior design.
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- Offers tips on creating a warm, inviting atmosphere in your home.
Pros:
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- Engaging writing style and practical lifestyle tips.
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- Inspires readers to incorporate comfort-focused design elements.
Cons:
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- More focused on lifestyle than on strict design principles.
Best For: Anyone interested in the cozy, minimalist aesthetic of Scandinavian design.
Average Customer Rating: 4.6/5 from 950 reviews.
Check it on Amazon!
5. “Elements of Style: Designing a Home & a Life”
Author: Erin Gates
Price: $35.00
Key Features:
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- Combines practical design tips with personal anecdotes.
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- Covers various styles and helps create a cohesive look for your home.
Pros:
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- A relatable and engaging narrative that makes design approachable.
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- Beautifully illustrated, offering plenty of eye-candy.
Cons:
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- Focuses more on soft design elements than on hard architectural details.
Best For: Those wanting a blend of lifestyle and design advice.
Average Customer Rating: 4.8/5 from 300 reviews.
Check it on Amazon!
6. “Design*Sponge at Home”
Author: Grace Bonney
Price: $30.00
Key Features:
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- Comprehensive guide to DIY projects and interior design inspiration.
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- Features real-life home tours and DIY tips.
Pros:
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- Richly illustrated guide that inspires creativity.
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- Provides various design styles and applications of creativity.
Cons:
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- Some readers may prefer a more traditional design approach.
Best For: DIY enthusiasts and anyone wanting to delve into home styling.
Average Customer Rating: 4.7/5 from 1500+ reviews.
Check it on Amazon!
7. “The Kinfolk Home: Interiors for Slow Living”
Author: Nathan Williams
Price: $36.00
Key Features:
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- Focus on creating calming, minimalist spaces.
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- Aesthetic approach to home design, emphasizing quality and craftsmanship.
Pros:
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- Beautiful photography and inspiring homes featured.
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- Encourages readers to slow down and enjoy their surroundings.
Cons:
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- May not appeal to those who prefer a more maximalist style.
Best For: Those interested in slow living and aesthetic design.
Average Customer Rating: 4.5/5 from 200 reviews.
Check it on Amazon!
Tips for Choosing the Right Book
When selecting your top interior design books under $50, consider the following:
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- Purpose: Are you looking for DIY tips, foundational design knowledge, or aesthetic inspiration?
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- Style: Choose a book that resonates with your style or introduces you to new concepts.
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- Depth: Some books offer a general overview, while others delve into specifics; choose based on your level of expertise.
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- Visuals: Consider books that feature quality images to spark your creativity.
Conclusion
Elevating your interior design skills doesn’t have to break the bank. The top interior design books under $50 listed above are excellent resources for inspiration, practical advice, and skill development. Whether you prefer stunning visuals or actionable tips, there’s something for everyone.
Final Thoughts
Invest in your design library this year. You’ll not only gain insights but, ultimately, create spaces that feel truly yours. By exploring the resources available, you’re one step closer to mastering the art of interior design.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the average price of interior design books?
Most interior design books range from $20 to $50, providing great value for quality design insights.
Where can I find the top interior design books under $50?
You can explore websites like Amazon, local bookstores, or libraries for these recommended titles.
Are interior design books suitable for beginners?
Absolutely! Many of these books are designed for beginners and provide clear, actionable advice.
How can I improve my interior design skills?
Reading insightful design books, taking online courses, and practicing your skills in real-life projects will significantly help.
Can interior design books help with smaller spaces?
Yes! Many design books focus on maximizing small spaces while maintaining style and functionality.
For more insights on interior design, feel free to check out ChatbiHouse’s blog and learn how to incorporate your design ideas. Happy reading!
