Coffee table books are in a category of their own because they serve a number of uses. Not only are they first and foremost a book containing words and pictures relating to subjects you’re interested in, but they add personality to your home and are just as much a certified decorative piece as say, a houseplant or a mirror.
If you’re the type to impress, it can even be something that says you’re a suave, sophisticated man who is just as capable of bringing some elegance into the home as he is dressing himself.
When it comes to accessorising your home with a few coffee table books, it’s not as simple as buying the first large hardback book you lay your eyes on. You’ll still want to put some thought into it.
But to help you out, we’ve rounded up some of our favourite coffee table books available right now that are guaranteed to bring pleasure to you and any ‘special guests’ who drop by for a cup of coffee.
Coffee Table Book FAQs
What size is a coffee table book?
A regular coffee table book with hardcover binding measures 8.5 × 11 inches. Of course, the sizes may vary. It can be as large as 14 × 18 inches, or as small as 7 x 7 inches.
How to organize coffee table books?
Stack your coffee books with the biggest book on the bottom and smallest on the top. You may also group books with similar topics to create a sense of unity. Two to three books on a coffee table are enough.
What makes a good coffee table book?
When choosing a good coffee table book, do not just consider the jacket. Pick one on a subject that resonates with you and that you are genuinely interested to read.
Sorted into seven categories (Art & Photography, Fashion, Film, Food, Architecture & Design, Watches, and Cars) to help you navigate which books align with your interests, all of the following books are sophisticated and will elevate your coffee table.
Art & Photography
1/32There’s nothing wrong with a little nudity in one’s abode. Maybe even some tasteful artistic photography to spice things up. This selection of timeless coffee table books feature the likes of photography legends, Helmut Newton and Ralph Gibson, as well as supermodel Naomi Campbell’s print work.
Fashion
2/32You don’t have to be an expert to appreciate fashion. These books cover menswear, designers, and even style icons, like NBA superstar Russell Westbrook. They’ll make the perfect accompaniment to your cool coffee table.
Dressing the Man: Mastering the Art of Permanent Fashion by Alan Flusser - US$50
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Film
7/32Are you a huge movie or pop culture fanatic? Then these film inspired coffee table books will help add a cinematic feel to your home. With classics like Rocky and Star Wars, you’ll definitely get guests (and yourself) stopping to flick through a few pages.
Rocky. The Complete Films (Limited Signed Edition) by Sylvester Stallone - US$1250
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Food
12/32Meat and men is a combination as good as peanut butter and jelly. Pasta and pinot is too. Inspire your next home cooked meal with this selection of man-food approved books that will make your coffee table or even your kitchen look super professional.
The Ultimate Guide To Meat by Anthony Puharich & Libby Travers - US$45
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The Geometry of Pasta by Catherine Hildebrand & Jacob Kenedy - US$25
16/32Architecture & Design
17/32Pretend you’re a superstar interior designer or architect with this selection of interesting books on home design and cool spaces. Our personal favourite is the book on Soviet architecture. What a great way to bring Putin into a conversation at your next dinner party.
CCCP: Cosmic Communist Constructions Photographed by Frédéric Chaubin - US$20
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Watches
22/32A topic which needs no introduction, but is every man’s secret passion. Whether you give it as a gift or keep them for yourself, every man loves a nice watch. Regardless, if you’re a Rolex guy or an Omega dude, you’ll learn so much with these timeless books (perfect for your coffee table!), causing you to appreciate all watches.
The Watch Book Compendium by Gisbert Brunner & Christian Pfeiffer-Belli - US$75
24/32The Wristwatch Handbook: A Comprehensive Guide to Mechanical Wristwatches by Ryan Schmidt - US$85
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Cars & Motorcycles
27/32Lastly, get on the vintage car and motorcycle bandwagon with one of these classic motoring books. Whether you’re a Porsche or Mercedes or Harley Davidson man, you’ll learn to appreciate the nuances of vintage cars and motorcycles with these enthralling coffee table books highlighting the true beauty of all vehicles.
Mercedes-Benz 300 SL: The Car of the Century by Hans Kleissl & Harry Niemann - US$150
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