Books To Take You Places
With interior inspiration from the details of twenty-eight Japanese homes, to handy, insider knowledge on where to find green spaces (be it courtyards, rooftops or pocket parks) in cities across the world, our first instalment of books to browse this summer each offers escapism aplenty.
Whether you're gifting to a friend or looking to transport elsewhere from the comfort of your home this season, these are our favourite picks for when you're longing to enjoy the beauty of a new place.
Living in the Forest by Phaidon Editors
It’s no secret that time spent amongst nature is some of the most relaxing of all, but what if bird song and uninterrupted quiet wasn’t just restricted to Sunday afternoon walks following one too many roast potatoes? That’s the case for those living in 50 of the breathtaking homes explored in Living in the Forest, which follows contemporary homes across the globe designed to exist harmoniously in forest or woodland settings.
From Australia, Brazil, Canada, Iceland, Norway as well as the UK and USA, the one-of-a-kind homes featured in Living in the Forest each offer something unique in their appeal, whether it be ecological design, or protection against the elements.
The perfect reading for those who enjoy the rewards of forest bathing, or simply dream of a home off the beaten track, the 300 photographs that span its pages are enough to thrust you into the magic of forest living. Bonus points if you light the Glassette x Evermore London Alpine Candle whilst reading for the ultimate forest inspired experience.
Where Architects Sleep: The Most Stylish Hotels In The World by Sarah Miller
For those with itchy feet and a constant desire for exploration and experience, Sarah Miller’s Where Architects Sleep is a surefire way to discover the world’s most stylish places to rest your head. With insight from 250 of the world's leading architects, the book details their insider tips on where to stay in over 100 countries, whether it be sought-after destinations or unique, undiscovered gems.
No matter the style of getaway in mind- be it a romantic weekend staycation or extravagant wedding celebration- Where Architects Sleep offers the crème de la crème of hotel recommendations from those who know the industry best.
Ideal reading for those who’s free time is spent collating inspiration for their next adventure, or who’s daydreams are fuelled by wanderlust. The only question left to ask is where to go first?
Green Escapes: The Guide to Secret Urban Gardens by Toby Musgrave.
Shhh. This one is packed with some of the best kept secrets around.
Another for those who dream of days spent outdoors, know that you need not head to the countryside for a slice of greenery to balance out a stressful day or hot summer season.
Green Escapes: The Guide to Secret Urban Gardens documents the world’s most beautiful ‘secret’ gardens, green spaces and slithers of nature amongst cities on an international scale, whether off the beaten track or simply less known than their popular tourist counterparts.
From college gardens at the University of Cambridge, to tree-shaded parks in the centre of New York City, watch as your perception of familiar spots are turned on their head and everything you thought you knew about city travel melts away.
Get your post-it notes at the ready ahead of your next trip.
Japanese Interiors by Mihoko Iida, with contributions by Danielle Demetriou
With its beautiful cover and equally enthralling contents inside, Japanese Interiors documents an eclectic, wide scale mix of Japanese homes with the aim of exploring how the country’s interior design trends are evolving in their latest era.
Featuring 28 homes in total, the book includes urban apartments, seaside residences, traditional dwellings and more to uncover both the crossovers and differences that can be observed with each.
Packed with noteworthy inspiration no matter where you live, Mihoko Iida and Danielle Demetriou explore the Japanese philosophy of bringing the outdoors in and the benefits that can come from embodying this way of life, irrespective of your own interior preferences or lifestyle.
Prepare to be inspired by a considered way of approaching interior design, and most likely the temptation to strip things back. Happy decluttering!
Mid-Century Modern Architecture Travel Guide: East Coast USA by Sam Lubell, and photography by Darren Bradley
Whether you live on the East Coast of America or simply plan to soak up inspiration from this corner of the globe, Mid-Century Modern Architecture Travel Guide: East Coast USA is packed with 250 must-see destinations from Maine to Florida.
Including buildings such as The Met Breuer, the beach houses of Fire Island, Manhattan skyscrapers and the Tropical Modern residences of Sarasota, Florida, its almost 400 pages are filled with unrivalled and detailed architectural insight.
Fancy visiting any of the destinations open to the public for yourself? Each page includes information on the building’s opening hours, entry fees, overnight accommodation and more to make planning your visit a seamless one.
Meet you at the gift shop!