Coffee table books make decorative pieces [1] that are packed with knowledge and inspiration. As such, they are great gift ideas [2] for the avid readers in your life. Whether they have a knack for interior design [3], plant care [4], photography [5], fashion, food, or the little histories of New York [6], there's a book that will cater to their unique passions and niche interests.
We've curated 13 affordable options anyone will be touched to receive as gifts. None of these books costs over $100, yet their value exceeds the price tag. Take a look at these unique finds and get ready to buy a few fo yourself, too.
A Touching Gift: Humans of New York by Brandon Stanton
The top stories from the popular blog and Instagram account have been compiled in this heartwarming Humans of New York by Brandon Stanton [8] ($15) book. It's a failsafe gift that will inspire and touch anyone deeply.
For Endless Green Inpiration: Jungalow: Decorate Wild - by Justina Blakeney (Hardcover)
This Jungalow: Decorate Wild - by Justina Blakeney (Hardcover) [9] ($20) is filled with clever tips and inspiration images, so they'll never run out of ideas for decorating their space. Display it on their coffee table.
For the Costume Design Enthusiasts: Racinet The Costume History
This Racinet The Costume History [10] ($20) is a fascinating look into costumes, dresses, and styles from antiquity to the end of the 19th century. It will be a guaranteed hit for costume design or fashion majors.
For All Things Big Apple: The Encyclopedia of New York
The editors of New York magazine put together this incredible book, and it's one I'd gift to anyone who loves New York as much as I do. The Encyclopedia of New York [11] ($25) is a collection of fun facts, unexpected origin stories, hidden histories, and useful guides about the city.
For the Art-Lover: Andy Warhol: Polaroids (Multilingual Edition)
Art enthusiasts will be so excited to add this Andy Warhol: Polaroids (Multilingual Edition) by Richard B. Woodard and Reuel Golden [12] ($59) to their collection. It's an engageing chronicle of the artist's life, work and encounters.
For Gucci Fans: Gucci: The Making Of by Frida Giannini
The fashion girl will love displaying GUCCI: The Making Of by Frida Giannini [13] ($88). It includes thought-provoking essays, anecdotes, and commentaries, showcasing Gucci like never before.
For the Interior Design Lovers: Architectural Digest: A Century of Style Coffee Table Book
To give them a start on decorating their coffee table, the Architectural Digest: A Century of Style Coffee Table Book [14] ($100) has that minimal look that'll blend right in. Plus, it'll be fun for guests to look through.
A Minimalist Book: Tom Ford by Tom Ford & Bridget Foley
Minimalist and sophisticated, just like the man himself. Anyone will love displaying Tom Ford by Tom Ford & Bridget Foley [15] ($83), which dives into his work at Gucci that has set the stage for his worldwide success.
For Fashion Fans: Peter Lindbergh: On Fashion Photography
If they have a knack for photography and fashion, this Peter Lindbergh: On Fashion Photography [16] ($51, originally $70) will provide plenty of inspiration. We'd want to flip through it all day long.
A Cross-Discipline Book: Louis Vuitton: A Passion for Creation: New Art, Fashion and Architecture
Make their home a little bit fancier by gifting them Louis Vuitton: A Passion for Creation: New Art, Fashion and Architecture by Valerie Steele [17] ($70). It explores a few of the industries the luxury house has built a name in.
A History Lesson: The Little Book of New York by Orange Hippo
The Little Book of New York [18] ($9) by Orange Hippo is packed with trivia, historical faces, and more. For those who love the Big Apple, this manual will teach them everything they need to know — covering the landmarks, world-class museums, theatres and other iconic attractions that make New York what it is.
A Special Cookbook: Pierre Thiam Cookbook
This Pierre Thiam Cookbook [19] ($90) makes an excellent gift for adventurous cooks. Since buying it after watching Anthony Bourdain [20]'s episode in Senegal, my husband and I have adopted a few recipes into our repertoire, and they have easily been our favourites.
For Interior Designers: Eames by Gloria Koenig and Peter Gössel
The interiors enthusiasts will swoon over this book Eames by Gloria Koenig and Peter Gössel [21] ($16). They'll learn all about the couple's highly influential work, which has defined a new kind of modernity in furniture design.