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Luxury Coffee Table Books to Add Class to Your Living Room

If you're looking to live a lavish lifestyle, there's one crucial accessory you can't afford to overlook: luxury coffee table books.

You already know how important the right coffee table is to creating a finished space for elegant entertaining. The right wood to accentuate the space, the proper size and design -- these are all important considerations. But even after you select this vital piece of furniture, your hard work is far from over. You still need at least a few of the best luxury coffee table books!

The humble coffee table book has often been the butt of jokes -- including several in a classic "Seinfeld" plot. What was once seen as a utilitarian design choice is now a statement of class in and of itself. The same can be said for much in our society, of course. And among the elite, everything -- including luxury coffee table books -- have always been geared toward opulence.

This particular piece, though, is somewhat low-risk as compared to other design elements of your home. It's easier, for instance, to replace a book than an armoire. What can be tricky to the uninitiated is determining which books qualify as luxury coffee table books.

That's going to depend on which expert you ask, of course. But I've attempted to compile a basic list of several solid choices. Basically, I want this to be a good place to start if you're looking for just the right piece to finish your living room.

6 Luxury Coffee Table Books to Consider

As an emerging sector of the luxury market, these things are everywhere. Everyone's recommending the next must-have hardcover book. But you need the book that will be a finishing touch, punctuating the style you've already established. Whether its a book about architecture, nature or animals, your decision will in many ways set the tone for the space it occupies. Guests will gather around the table, glancing at its cover and perhaps leaning over to open and peer inside. The books below will convince them to keep flipping.

I'll offer a few suggestions and mention some names you're likely to see in your quest for luxury coffee table books. But you'll have to decide what book best fits the empty space you're looking to fill. After all, a good book is the cherry on top of a expertly designed space. Yet it can be so much more. The luxury coffee table books listed below are great examples of that.

1. The Big Book of the Hamptons

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Much of the recent attention on luxury coffee table books is due to firms like Assouline. That company, which produces high-end books and accessories, published the first entry on the list. "The Big Book of the Hampton" deserves consideration in part because of its subject matter. Life in the Hamptons is the epitome of style and class. If you're portraying the image contained inside of this book, then you're doing luxury right!

Yet this book makes a statement about so much more than the Hamptons. Its eye catching design will encourage guests to pick it up and learn more about this iconic community. And they'll learn something about you, too. Among luxury coffee table books, this hits all the important elements.

What's inside

Sit down and actually read Michael Shnayerson's introduction, and find merits beyond simply tying your room together.

Then, continue flipping through the pages for large, breathtaking photos of the landscapes and architecture. These elements combine to allow the Hamptons to represent the pinnacle of luxury and social success. If you haven't been, this book will make you want to go tomorrow. If you've had the pleasure, it'll make you wish you were still there. 

Pick up this book, originally published in 2014, to find out incredible details about the Hamptons. Learn about all of the American literary icons influenced by this Long Island, New York treasure. You already know this is where the elite retreat. Thanks to Michael Shnayerson's book, you'll know why.

2. The Garden of Peter Marino

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Well, the first entry has me preoccupied with East Coast luxury. So forgive me, but I'm staying in Long Island for the topic of the second one. Aside from the unparalleled natural backdrop of this environment, though, the two books tackle very different topics.

"The Garden of Peter Marino" presents precisely what its title promises. And if you know this world renown architect's work, I don't need to say anything else. If you're not already hooked, let me explain. In addition to some spectacular residential designs, Marino is known for his iconic contributions to high-end retail brands. In the 40 years of his firm's existence, he has worked with brands like Chanel and Dior to create timeless classics. 

What's inside

Who knew those unique skills translated to a green thumb? Well, the publishers of this book certainly did. And because of that, you'll be able to display some of the most breathtaking creations in the garden areas of Marino's estate.

The photos provide a clear representation of the architect's style. He utilizes vibrant colors and often incorporates playful elements. His garden covers roughly 12 acres and is punctuated with dozens of pieces of exquisite artwork. See the scenery across all the year's seasons and from a variety of perspectives.

This place is a sight to behold -- one you can literally hold in your hands. Marino's work has been captured on the page for the enjoyment of dinner guests for years to come. Rightly so, this luxury coffee table book has earned a spot in your parlor.

3. Dinner with Jackson Pollock

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The third entry in this list of luxury coffee table books also explores the lesser known talents of an influential artist. Jackson Pollock's contribution to modern art is hard to overstate. Abstract paintings with heavy, dimensional paint application defined his unique expressionist style on the canvas. When it came to entertaining, though, Pollock similarly created a reputation for originality and creativity.

What's inside

Contained within this beautifully bound edition are dozens of recipes written in his own handwriting. You'll also find images depicting social events hosted by Pollock and his wife, Lee Krasner. Whether you're a lifelong fan of this groundbreaking artist's work or not, this book is worth consideration. Aside from his mastery of a completely original style of painting, Pollock was a complex, troubled, and creative force. "Dinner with Jackson Pollock," first published in 2015, offers a fascinating sneak peek into that storied period of Americana. 

4. Conde Nast Traveler Photographs

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You can trust Conde Nast to bring you the ultimate travel reports. But those stunning photos are combined to create a brilliant compilation sure to complement any decor.

This is another Assouline product, first published in 2012. In my opinion, this makes a great luxury coffee table book for the indecisive buyer. This is easily a book that could make the transition from one coffee table to another. Furthermore, the timeless text on its cover belies a vibrant interior packed with exclusive images.

What's inside

Though the 25th anniversary collection is itself now more than five years old, the book is always new. Turn to any page in this large hardcover book and sail off to a different immaculate part of the world. Whether you're unsure about which book to buy or which trip to book, this rich anthology might be able to help.

5. Oscar de la Renta: The Style, Inspiration, and Life of Oscar de la Renta

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If you're looking for style, you can't go wrong with Oscar de la Renta. As it turns out, that advice goes for luxury coffee table books, too.

This book is the story of the fashion icon behind the looks of many of your favorite celebrities. Better yet, it's all told flawlessly through his own private photos and recollections. 

What's inside

Since receiving a beautiful update in a 2014 edition, this 2002 book is even more at home among luxury coffee table books. When you're not satisfied with the book merely serving its duty as table candy, be sure to flip through its pages. You'll find a forward by Vogue editor-in-chief, Anna Wintour. Throughout the pages that follow, influential fashion writer Sarah Mowers weaves together the story of Oscar de la Renta. If you know that story or just think you do, you owe it to yourself to give this book a shot!

Whether you're a trendsetter yourself or simply admire the ebbs and flow of fashion from afar, Oscar de la Renta deserves a spot on your coffee table. Your fashionista friends will love pouring over the journey and photos.

6. Cupcakes and Cashmere at Home

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I reserved the last spot on my list of luxury coffee table books for interior design fans. This 2015 followup to Emily Schuman's 2012 instant classic includes even more advice and behind the scenes photos from her popular blog.

The fashion, food, and lifestyle expert compiled all of her best recipes, beauty tutorials, organization tips, and more for these posh books. If you're interested in living your best luxurious lifestyle, consider laying this atop your coffee table.

What's inside

Get tips for do it yourself projects and hosting opportunities in a book worthy to be displayed. Find ways to maximize functionality, efficiency, and luxury around the home without sacrificing style.

Oh, and this one is also among the more inexpensive. It might be a good book to keep on hand for when the mood strikes. Like Schuman's earlier book in the "Cupcakes and Cashmere" series, this one doesn't show signs of going out of style any time soon.

Luxury coffee table books are here to stay.

Don't get it mixed up though -- they're not your grandparent's big, heavy paperweight of a book. Rather, these add class, style, and gravitas to your living room.

I hope you enjoyed scratching the surface with me. If so, please share this article with your fashionable friends -- or those who wish they were. And let us know what some of your favorite luxury coffee tables are in the comments section below!

Related article: Luxury Home Must-Haves

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