10 Must-Read Books Every Interior Designer Should Read
10 Must-Read Books Every Interior Designer Should Read.
As a commercial Interior Designer, I have essential Interior Design books that I keep in my library and reference regularly. These books have helped me build systems and provide solutions to design problems. The books provide information on ADA, building codes, anthropometrics, ergonomics, FF&E, Finishes, construction drawings, sustainability, and more. This book list is geared towards education, reference, and standards. These books are essential for your design career journey and are a great foundation to build your design library!
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1. The Interior Design Reference & Specification Book
By Chris Grimley and Mimi Love
This is one of my go-to books. It's a great book for inspiring designers and professionals. Informative, educational, has great graphics, and is well organized. I reference this book for technical information, project management, codes and standards, accessibility, lighting, and construction details. The practical information will help you with labeling details in your design drawings. This book is the perfect size, you can keep this book on your desk or in your work bag. If you need a small quick resource- get this book!
2. NCIDQ Interior Design Reference Manual
By David Kent Ballast
NCIDQ Interior Design Reference Manual is THE essential reference book for the NCIDQ exam. If you plan to sit for this exam and can only buy one book, purchase this one. This book covers all the sections of the exam. I recommend that you start by reading this book from cover to cover and go back and start taking notes. I reference this book for material and finish selections, bidding documents, acoustics, ada, architectural woodwork, and structural systems. I highly recommend this useful resource.
3. Human Dimension & Interior Space
By Julius Panero and Martin Zelnik
If I know I’m designing for children, ergonomics, or any space in general, I grab this book. This book is a great reference for reach ranges, clearances at workstations, and general anthropometric information. The author's focus is human-centered design. Great for Interior Designers who specialize in space planning. Space Planners will love this book! The book and graphics are easy to read. All the information you need to know to meet size and space planning requirements can be found in this book.
4. Time-Saver Standards for Interior Design and Space Planning
By Julius Panero and Martin Zelnik
Known as the Silver Bible, this heavy book provides helpful space planning information. Whether you own an Interior Design business or work in the field, this book has valuable information. You will be surprised how many times I have referenced this book. You will find layout typicals for residential and commercial spaces, even public bathroom details. Also, great sections on historic styles and architectural woodwork. I reach for this book when I’m designing conference rooms, private offices, and shared workstations.
5. Construction Drawings and Details for Interiors
By Rosemary Kilmer and W. Otie Kilmer
If you do a lot of drafting at your job or want to learn more about interior construction drawings, this is the book for you. A great study guide for the NCIDQ, this book will guide you through construction plans for interiors. Specific sections in this book include mechanical plans, structural systems, schedules, furnishings and equipment plans, lighting, and many more. Easy to read and clear graphics throughout this book.
6. The Interior Design Productivity Toolbox
By Phyllis Harbinger
As designers, I believe we do more administrative work than design. Client and team meetings, procurements, site visits, follow-ups, and installations. The Interior Design Productivity Toolbox will help you streamline and organize your projects from start to finish. This book is geared towards professional Interior Designers. Managing several projects at once can be overwhelming and project organization is required for successful projects. You will find checklists, templates, and guidance on the design process for commercial and residential design. If you are looking for a practical book with no fluff- get this book you will not be disappointed.
7. Interior Construction & Detailing for Designers & Architects
By David Kent Ballast
Another must-have book to study for the NCIDQ exam. Interior Construction & Detailing for Designers & Architects and the NCIDQ Interior Design Reference Manual go hand in hand, same authors by the way. This book provides more information on Wallcovering calculations, door details, acoustics, and many more subjects. You will learn about construction techniques and interior details. You can reference several topics quickly, this book will save you time.
8. The Codes Guidebook for Interiors
By Katherine E. Kennon and Sharon K. Harmon
Code review is one of the first steps in the Interior Design process. Designers will reference ICC, ANSI, ADA, BIFMA, NFPA, and other standards often. This book provides great explanations for residential and commercial codes and standards. If you are looking for a clear explanation of a code, this book is a great resource. I use this book mostly for building safety, occupancy classifications, and electrical requirements.
9. Wellbeing in Interiors
By Elina Grigoriou
Wellbeing in Interiors is a new addition to my library. This practical, color-coded guide will teach you about how Interior Design impacts well-being. The built environment has an impact on our wellbeing and it is something to consider as we are designing spaces. Some topics discussed: color psychology, artwork, and interior atmosphere. This book provides practical tips and guidance on how to implement in your projects.
10. Building Construction Illustrated
By Francis D. K. Ching
Sometimes Interior Designers need a good visual reference. This book provides easy-to-read and clear graphics that show building methods and systems. Architects, Engineers, and other professionals reference this book as well. When working on design drawings and construction details, this is a go-to book.