6 interior design books to lift your homes spirits

Mies

If youve been coveting the definitive guide to one of the worlds most celebrated architects, this epic 543-page volume is worth the splurge.

Author and scholar Detlef Mertins spent a decade researching all things van der Rohe from his beginnings in Berlin through to his triumph, Manhattans Seagram Building, considered the first glass skyscraper in the US.

Along the way, Mertins explores Mies interests and influences, including, namely, the Bauhaus movement.

And the book is packed with more than 700 illustrations sketches, architectural plans and lots of photos of his masterpieces, including the Farnsworth House and Germanys New National Gallery.Phaidon Press, $150; March

The Italian trio behind this guide to the latest design trends sure did their homework the book weighs in at 500-plus pages, with a whopping 120 international projects accompanied by 500 illustrations.

And those projects run the style gamut from modern to vintage to Surrealist to Mediterranean meaning, theres something here for everyone.

But its not a merely a pretty tome for your coffee table the authors note that their aim is to provide practical ideas and inspiration for designers, architects and those looking to renovate.24 ORE Cultura, $55; March

Though its interior designer Jay Jeffers first book, hes already established his design cred via a foreword by the illustrious Jamie Drake. So just who is this Jeffers fellow?

Based in San Francisco, the young designer has won accolades from Elle Decor for his inventive mix of antique, vintage and modern furnishings, along with smart uses of color and artwork.

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6 interior design books to lift your homes spirits