Books on Architecture and Interior Design

Côte d’Azur Living, The Residences and Interiors of the French Riviera
Compiled by: Gestalten & Harriet Thorpe

Explore the cultural soul of the Côte d'Azur through the lens of architectural and interior stories. For centuries, the French Riviera has been known as a place of relaxation, inspiration, and luxury. This book takes you to the region's most iconic homes, from the 18th century to the present, revealing the architectural styles and interior designs that make the Côte d'Azur so unique.

What to expect?

• An in-depth look at the architecture and interior designs of the French Riviera, from historic country houses to contemporary villas.
• Insight into the cultural influences that shape the architectural style of this exclusive region.
• Contributions from renowned experts in design and architecture.

From Menton to Arles, Côte d’Azur Living offers a carefully curated selection of unique homes, enriched with stunning photography that reflects the charm of the region. The book provides a rare glimpse into the design world of France's most prestigious and beloved coastal area.

About the author:
Harriet Thorpe is a writer, journalist, and editor specializing in architecture and design. After her career in London, she has recently spent more time in the South of France. Her work has been published in leading magazines such as Wallpaper, The World of Interiors, and Icon, as well as in Gestalten's Concrete Jungle.

A must-have for lovers of design, architecture, and the unique charm of the French Riviera.

The Nordic Home, Scandinavian Living, Interiors and Design offers an inspiring look at the essence of Scandinavian design, where minimalism and comfort are key.

The Nordic Home celebrates timeless simplicity, stylish functionality, and a thoughtful reduction to the core of good living. This photo book showcases the best of contemporary Scandinavian interior design with a selection of minimalist, light-filled homes. Discover a wooden island house in Finland, a family home in Stockholm with earthy, neutral tones, or a uniquely designed cottage that blends into the rocky landscape of the Norwegian archipelago.

Explore a range of creative interpretations of the original concepts from Nordic culture, as designers continue to seek new ways to redefine simplicity in the 21st century.

Why choose this coffee table book?

• Be inspired by the beauty of Scandinavian interior design.
• See unique homes that combine minimalism with warmth and functionality.
• Ideal for anyone who loves a modern, stylish, and serene living style.

A must-have for lovers of Scandinavian living and minimalist design.

Upgrade Your House, Rebuild, Renovate, and Reimagine Your Home

Transform a simple house into a dream home with creative vision, expert execution, and a sustainable perspective – without a large budget.

Discover how to turn old architecture into a stylish and comfortable living space. Upgrade Your House offers an inspiring selection of renovation, remodeling, and extension projects for private homes worldwide.

Smart Transformations for a Sustainable Home
This book emphasizes sustainability, demonstrating how existing structures can be revitalized with clever interventions and practical solutions. From adapted floor plans and modern extensions to ingenious renovations – discover how every home can reach its full potential.

With detailed floor plans and beautiful images, Upgrade Your House is an essential guide for architects, designers, and homeowners seeking creative and affordable inspiration. Turn your house into a place to dream of!

The Mediterranean Home, Residential Architecture and Interiors with a Southern Touch

Let yourself be inspired by the timeless beauty and holistic design of Mediterranean homes.

The Mediterranean home continues to exert a significant influence on both residential architecture and interior design, from classic country styles to modern spaces where form and function harmoniously converge. These homes blur the boundaries between indoors and outdoors, combining traditional elements with contemporary accents.

This coffee table book offers an exploration of architecture, interior design, decoration, and furniture design, celebrating the unique Mediterranean aesthetic. This style, deeply rooted in local culture and nature, continues to be a worldwide source of inspiration for a sense of homeliness and comfort.

Living In – Modern Masterpieces of Residential Architecture

A unique look inside the world’s most exceptional homes, selected by leading design platform Openhouse.

Over the past six years, Openhouse has taken readers into some of the most extraordinary homes worldwide. In their first book, the editors now open the doors to exclusive favorites, featuring unique photography of rarely seen houses.

From Brutalism to 20th-century masterpieces designed by icons such as Walter Gropius and Ludwig Mies van der Rohe, this book offers an inspiring journey through various architectural styles. Admire Georgia O'Keeffe's adobe home in New Mexico, discover Luis Barragán's modernist Casa Pedregal in Mexico City, and experience the sensory architecture of George Nakashima's home, studio, and workshop in New Hope, Pennsylvania.

Living In tells the stories of the architects and inhabitants, and what it feels like to live in these special spaces. The owners are presented not only as residents but also as guardians of architectural heritage.

About Openhouse:
Openhouse is a biannual magazine that explores art, design, architecture, and culture. It takes you to beautiful homes around the world and introduces you to the people who live in them. Openhouse shares the philosophy of creative minds, based on values such as tradition, nature, art, and identity.

An inspiring book for architecture and design enthusiasts, demonstrating how exceptional living spaces can enrich daily life.

The New Mediterranean – Homes and Interiors Under the Southern Sun

Discover how to bring the warm, sun-drenched simplicity of Mediterranean style into your interior.

A new, accessible form of modernism is gaining ground, from California to Morocco, Portugal to Mexico. The coffee table book The New Mediterranean shows how traditional crafts and folklore from the Mediterranean region are combined with a contemporary aesthetic. The result is an interior that embraces warmth, light, and natural materials.

This inspiring photo book showcases beautiful homes and vacation houses from all over the world that reflect the Mediterranean lifestyle. Think earthy tones, colorful fabrics, handmade ceramics, rattan furniture, and Berber carpets, combined with whitewashed walls, concrete, bricks, terracotta tiles, and glass details.

The New Mediterranean takes you into the creative world of leading designers and architects and offers a glimpse into the traditional craftsmanship that forms the core of this style. Whether you want a completely new interior or are looking for small accents, this book inspires you to bring the sun into your home.

A perfect choice for lovers of interior design, warm colors, and timeless Mediterranean elegance.

Scandinavia Dreaming – Nordic Homes, Interiors and Design

Discover the evolution of Scandinavian design: a perfect balance of elegance, functionality, and tradition.

The story of Scandinavian design is one of contrasts. On the one hand, it exudes openness, light, and accessibility, while on the other, it possesses an understated, refined, and timeless allure. The coffee table book Scandinavia Dreaming takes you into this world of subtle craftsmanship, where natural elements such as clay, wood, and glass are harmoniously combined with large windows that welcome the winter light. This photo book allows you to discover the rich versatility and intensity of modern Scandinavian interiors, architecture, and design.

From young artisans who breathe new life into traditional materials such as ceramics and textiles, to design brands like Hay, Ferm Living, and Frama that combine classic Scandinavian aesthetics with contemporary energy and warmth. Scandinavia Dreaming highlights the influential names and brands that have put Scandinavian design on the map and shows how design can be both livable and logical.

Be inspired by the Finnish textile art of Klaus Haapaniemi and Kustaa Saksi, where the line between art and interior decoration blurs. Discover the elegant furniture pieces by Copenhagen’s Gubi, which give forgotten designs a new lease on life, or the nature-inspired sculptures by Kneip from Oslo, which perfectly illustrate the harmony between Scandinavian architecture and its environment.

The projects in this book offer ideas and inspiration that you can immediately apply in your own home. Through stories of residents and creative makers, you get an intimate look at a design style known for its effortless combination of classic simplicity and warm, natural materials.

A must-have coffee table book for lovers of Scandinavian design and anyone looking to transform their interior with the unique charm of Scandinavian style.

Circular Materials – Innovation and Reuse in Design and Architecture

Shaping tomorrow's world with creative reuse in interiors and architecture.

With growing environmental concerns, reducing material consumption is becoming increasingly important for a sustainable future. The coffee table book Circular Materials demonstrates how reused, recycled, and upcycled materials are employed innovatively in architecture, design, and fashion. This photo book offers practical solutions to lessen environmental impact and inspires a new way of thinking.

Featuring no less than 50 projects, Circular Materials showcases creative strategies to give waste a second life and replace traditional materials with sustainable alternatives. Each chapter delves into the origin of materials and includes a fascinating case study on circular design.

With impressive visuals and inspiring insights, this book provides a deep dive into how design and architecture can embrace circular innovations. It encourages designers, architects, and creatives to re-evaluate material use, balancing aesthetics with environmental consciousness.

What to expect:

• Projects where materials such as plastic waste, metal scraps, leftover fabrics, factory waste, and production surpluses are repurposed.
• Reflections on the future of sustainable design practices and the potential of recycled materials.
• Insights from designers, architects, and experts on the challenges and benefits of reused materials.

Joe Gibbs, a British architect with experience in Barcelona, Rotterdam, and London, shares his expertise in this book. His work includes research for The Centre for Architecture and Built Environment Research (CABER) and projects with a strong focus on social and environmentally conscious architecture.

Circular Materials is a source of inspiration for anyone passionate about sustainable innovation and redefining the possibilities of design and architecture.

American Icons Vol. 2 – The Architecture of the United States: Elegance and Progress

Discover the icons and innovators shaping America's architectural heritage.

American architecture has been a symbol of progress and identity for centuries. While modern design trends continue to transform the United States skyline, the coffee table book American Icons Vol. 2 offers an in-depth look at the evolution of American architecture. This impressive photo book presents 50 iconic projects and includes four essays focusing on the International Style and mid-20th-century modernism.

With breathtaking photographs and detailed analyses, the book shows how American modernism, influenced by the Bauhaus movement, emphasizes simplicity, transparency, and timeless elegance. American Icons Vol. 2 is an indispensable resource for architecture enthusiasts and a tribute to the impressive achievements of American architecture, offering inspiration for the future.

What to expect:

• Projects showcasing the diversity of American architecture, each with unique design and construction details.
• Reflections on the development of architectural practices in the US, from traditional to contemporary styles, and a look at potential future trends.
• A visually immersive journey through American architectural history, brought to life with stunning photography and engaging stories.

Sam Lubell, author of 12 books on architecture, has written for The New York Times, The Los Angeles Times, Architectural Digest, and Dwell, among others. For gestalten, he co-edited the first volume of American Icons, published in 2024.

American Icons Vol. 2 offers an inspiring look at the unique balance between elegance and innovation in American architecture. Perfect for anyone fascinated by design and urban development.

Living in a Dream, Dreamscapes, Imagined Architecture, and Interiors 

Be inspired by the boundless power of imagination and the transformative effect of design.

In recent years, artificial architecture has undergone enormous development. Thanks to advanced AI tools, designers, professionals, students, and passionate enthusiasts have been given the opportunity to create stunning indoor and outdoor worlds. From idyllic beach houses and utopian skyscrapers to playful, imaginative interiors—this technology opens the door to perfectly executed dream worlds.

The coffee table book Living in a Dream is a breathtaking collection of architectural and interior wonders. This carefully curated photo book takes you through the halls of unlimited creativity, where each page unveils a new world of aesthetic innovation. It transcends the traditional boundaries of design and offers a unique insight into the visionary minds of artists who dare to dream beyond the everyday.

Whether you are an admirer of architecture, design, or creativity, Living in a Dream inspires you to discover the possibilities of human imagination and to shape your own dreams.

Stillness, An Exploration of Japanese Aesthetics in Architecture and Design

Discover the refined beauty of Japanese aesthetics through the unique Scandinavian lens of Norm Architects.

After more than a decade of travel, study, and creative collaboration with Japan, Norm Architects shares their vision of the Japanese traditions that have shaped their contemporary projects. The coffee table book Stillness offers a visually rich account of visits to Japanese landscapes, architecture, and cultural sites. It reveals how Japanese influences have become an integral part of projects such as the Äng restaurant in Sweden and the Heatherhill Beach House in Denmark.

The photo book uncovers an intriguing dialogue between images of Japan and the work of Norm Architects. This visual combination highlights the age-old connections between the design traditions of Japan and Scandinavia, with mutual respect and shared philosophies at their core. Enriched with insights from experts from both regions, Stillness offers a deep understanding of essential design principles and an ode to Japanese beauty.

More than a coffee table book: Stillness is a personal journey, an aesthetic manifesto, and a tribute to one of the most admired creative cultures in the world.

About Norm Architects
Norm Architects, based in Copenhagen and founded in 2008, is a leading agency in architecture, interior design, product design, and photography. Their work is characterized by a balance between richness and simplicity, order and complexity. Through years of close collaboration with Japanese designers and building upon centuries of cultural exchange between Japan and Scandinavia, Norm Architects has developed a unique design philosophy that brings together serene beauty and timeless elegance.

With Stillness, Norm Architects invites you to discover the harmonious connection between two worlds and be inspired by the timeless principles of Japanese aesthetics.

Prefab and Modular, Prefabricated Houses and Modular Architecture

Discover the innovative possibilities of prefabrication and modular construction, praised by many as the future of modern architecture.

Prefabrication and modular building methods are rapidly gaining ground and are seen as a major pillar of tomorrow's architecture. Although this concept has existed for over a century, more and more construction projects are using these efficient and sustainable techniques.

The coffee table book Prefab and Modular is an inspiring collection of residential and public projects, as well as brand architecture, container construction, cabins, and extensions. This photo book not only offers a wealth of information for professionals looking for innovative building solutions, but is also a practical guide for homeowners who want to buy, renovate or expand their home using prefab and modular methods.

Whether you are an architect or a private individual with building plans, this book opens the doors to a world of stylish, functional and future-oriented designs.

Soft Minimal, Norm Architects: A Sensory Approach to Architecture and Design

Harmony in simplicity: the humane minimalism of Norm Architects creates spaces that feel as good as they look.

The work of Norm Architects revolves around well-being and balance. Their distinctive style combines simplicity with warmth, complexity with order, and richness with restraint. Whether it's architecture, interiors, or furniture, their soft minimalism appeals to both intellect and emotion, creating spaces that inspire visually and sensually.

In Soft Minimal, the first self-compiled monograph by Norm Architects, their most acclaimed works are presented. From Scandinavian homes to commercial projects in Italy and Japan, the book explores how they integrate the essence of Nordic traditions, modernist principles, and the use of natural materials. The result is an in-depth and poetic look at their creative process, where every space stimulates the senses and exudes tranquility.

Norm Architects is based in one of Copenhagen's oldest streets and plays a prominent role in the world of Nordic design. Their expertise lies in finding the perfect balance between adding and subtracting, with projects that garner admiration worldwide.

A must-have for lovers of minimalist design, architecture, and timeless interiors.

Less but Better

The new edition of Dieter Rams' masterpiece.

Few product designs have stood the test of time like Dieter Rams' creations. Almost everything this influential twentieth-century designer created is now considered a classic. This new, revised edition of Less but Better once again shows why Rams’ vision of design remains relevant, now and in the future.

In a world where ideas about good design constantly change due to cultural and technological developments, Dieter Rams offers a timeless approach. His ten design principles – focused on purity and simplicity – are still considered fundamental to design practice and theory.

The coffee table book Less but Better is not a complete documentation of Rams' work or a detailed history of Braun. Instead, this photo book offers insight into the ideas, criteria, and methods behind his designs. It shows how a changing culture of product development has led to universal design standards. His reflections on ethics and values in design provide clear guidance for the future. One principle always remains true: less is simply better.

About Dieter Rams:
Dieter Rams (born in Wiesbaden in 1932) began his career as an architect and is globally recognized as one of the most influential industrial designers of the twentieth century. During his more than 40 years at electronics manufacturer Braun, he created groundbreaking designs that continue to inspire designers worldwide. Rams also introduced a new awareness of the social function of design in Germany.

About Jo Klatt:
Jo Klatt is a recognized expert and collector of Braun products. He worked for many years at the magazine Design+Design and published several works, including the first edition of Less but Better.

With Less but Better, you not only bring a beautiful coffee table book into your home, but also a timeless reference work on design philosophy. Ideal for lovers of minimalist design, architecture, and industrial design.

Sustainable & Stylish Homes – Duurzaam & Elegant Wonen

Sustainable & Stylish Homes is an inspiring collection of leading architecture and interior design studios that are at the forefront of sustainable, stylish, and energy-efficient living solutions. This beautiful coffee table book showcases how innovative designs, eco-friendly materials, and timeless aesthetics converge to create a harmonious and luxurious home.

Discover groundbreaking green architecture, from LEED-certified homes to designs that seamlessly blend into nature. Sustainable & Stylish Homes highlights the latest trends in sustainable living and offers in-depth insights from experts. With breathtaking photography and inspiring projects, this photo book is an indispensable source of inspiration for architects, interior designers, and anyone who wants to live consciously and stylishly.

About the author:
Francesc Zamora Mora began his career as an architect in San Francisco and now works from Barcelona, where he specializes in architectural projects in the United States. As a renowned architectural editor, he brings a unique vision of design, rooted in both the American and European architectural worlds.

A must-have for anyone who wants to combine sustainability and elegance in their interior!

Coffee Breaks – Inspiring Coffee Shops & Cozy Meeting Places

Take a moment for yourself and discover the most beautiful coffee shops in the world with Coffee Breaks: Cozy Spaces for Relaxing. This inspiring coffee table book takes you on a journey through 30 unique coffee hotspots where architecture and interior design come together to create a warm, atmospheric, and stylish ambiance.

From minimalist Scandinavian designs to vibrant, eclectic interiors – each cafe in this photo book proves that well-thought-out design not only contributes to aesthetics but also to the ultimate coffee experience. Discover how designers and architects use clever layouts, lighting, furniture, and sustainable materials to transform small or unconventional spaces into cozy meeting places.

Whether you are an architect, interior designer, or a true coffee lover, Coffee Breaks is the ultimate source of inspiration for anyone who wants to immerse themselves in the world of stylish coffee drinking and relaxing in atmospheric environments.

Think Big - Shop Small, Unique Stores and Contemporary Retail Design

The most beautiful boutiques and inspiring retail concepts worldwide

What truly makes a store special? Coffee table book Think Big - Shop Small takes you to the most unique and innovative stores that go far beyond just a place to buy products. This book shows how independent shops and concept stores create a total experience, where design, atmosphere, and personal service come together.

In a time when online shopping is the norm, these stores prove the power of personal interaction and carefully curated collections. From beautifully designed flagship stores to small, artisanal boutiques with a surprising assortment – Think Big - Shop Small demonstrates how retail is being reinvented.

With eye-catching interiors, creative retail concepts, and unique customer experiences, this book offers inspiration for both shop owners and enthusiasts of retail design and architecture. Discover how independent stores not only sell products but also create stories, shopping experiences, and a unique atmosphere.

The coffee table book Think Big - Shop Small is a tribute to the art of shopping and shows how special stores worldwide leave a lasting impression. A must-have coffee table book full of inspiration for unique shopping experiences.

Perfect for: Entrepreneurs, shop lovers, designers, and trend watchers

About the author:
Marianne Julia Strauss is a German travel journalist who has turned her curiosity into her profession. For ten years, she has been traveling the world, writing about the most beautiful places and the good things in life. For Gestalten, she previously published the books Do You Read Me? and Temples of Books, in which she showcased the most remarkable bookstores and libraries worldwide.

The Book of Temples – Spiritual Places Around the World

Journey to sacred places that touch the soul, from ancient temples to Gothic masterpieces, and discover how these spiritual spaces have shaped our world.

Since the dawn of civilization, people have created temples and sacred places to connect with the divine. Across continents and centuries, these sites symbolize faith, unity, and creativity. They offer a unique glimpse into humanity's spiritual essence.

The coffee table book The Book of Temples takes you on a visually stunning journey through 30 centuries of spirituality spread across five continents. From Ethiopian synagogues and French cathedrals to Mayan temples and Japanese shrines – this book offers a rich collection of diverse sacred places. It is a tribute to the diversity of faith and devotion worldwide.

With breathtaking photography and inspiring essays, The Book of Temples immerses you in the architectural and spiritual wonders of the world. This photo book invites you to explore these sacred places and reflect on their lasting impact on our spirituality.

What can you expect?

• Visual spectacle: Beautiful photography and detailed illustrations of sacred places
• A global and inclusive perspective: Religions and spiritual movements from all over the world are covered
• Informative essays: Enriching context and deeper insights into the meaning of each location
• Focus on spirituality: An invitation to reflection, irrespective of religious beliefs

About Marianne Julia Strauss:
Marianne Julia Strauss is an award-winning journalist, known for her captivating stories about global destinations. Her work highlights the beauty of travel and explores the rich history and traditions of different cultures. Previously, she collaborated with Gestalten on books such as Do You Read Me?, Think Big—Shop Small, and Temples of Books.

Discover the power and splendor of spiritual places with The Book of Temples. A perfect coffee table book for lovers of architecture, travel, and spirituality.