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The best coffee table books are the ones that can stand the test of time. It’s a priceless investment that will stay a constant among the mystery, romance and non-fiction books you keep tearing through; one that will give all your guests something to leaf through. From tomes displaying National Geographic’s award-winning photos to fashion titles inspired by—and in some cases even authored by—the world’s top designers, here’s a list of 15 coffee table books on travel, fashion, music, photography, cars, F&B and more to have in your collection.
15 best coffee table books about travel, fashion, cars, movies & more to have in your collection
This stunning coffee-table book displays over 250 stunningly iconic images and personal reflections from the late designer Virgil Abloh’s inner circle — Nigo, Naomi Campbell, Luka Sabbat, Kendall Jenner, Kid Cudi and more.
This best-seller offers a peek into the House of Chanel’s private archives and explores five central themes — the suit, the camellia, jewellery, fragrances and make-up, and the little black dress and traces these from the past to present to understand how they have been rediscovered and reinvented by new-age designers.
The colossal, slip-cased deluxe volume displays a decade worth (1994 to 2004) of the designer’s most iconic and provocative designs for both Gucci and Yves Saint Laurent.
This one’s for all Formula 1 fans. Ferrari: From Inside and Outside contains the original prints of some of the sport’s most iconic teams and moments, by legendary photographers Rainer Schlegelmilch and Ercole Colombo. What’s more, the book is even edited by renowned Formula 1 commentator James Allen.
Through wildlife photographer Manish Kalani’s lens, we get a peek into the lives of Ranthambore’s tigers, with a special focus on the lineage of the famed tigress Machhli over seven years. This coffee table book has over 500 pictures of Machhli’s family.
From Paul Newman’s Rolex Daytona, which he wore every single day for 35 years until his death, to Sir Edmund Hillary’s Rolex worn during the first-ever summit of Mt. Everest — this coffee table book pens down the history behind some of the world’s most prized watches.
Loaded with beautiful imagery that’s reminiscent of his films, this coffee table book contains a collection of concept sketches, storyboards, concept art, cel art and film images that made up the story of My Neighbor Totoro, an animated film conceived, scripted, and directed by Miyazaki.
The Wes Anderson world, with its pop of colour, is one that appeals to every sort of audience. This NewYorkTimes-bestseller offers a visual adventure of the same — stunning photographs of real-life places that doubled up as the set for his movies and the compelling stories behind each dreamlike spot.
One of the most celebrated and tragic artists in history, Van Gogh left behind quite a complex legacy. This coffee table book offers a detailed monograph on his life and art and catalogues his 871 paintings.
Embark on a Nat Geo-approved photographic tour of the world’s most spectacular destinations, from ancient monoliths and scenic islands to white-sand seashores and rain forests, which you can bookmark for your next vacation.
Do you know where to get good fatty crab in Rangoon? Or how to order your reindeer medium rare? The answers lie in the late celebratory chef Anthony Bourdain’s coffee table book, a fully illustrated journal of his far-flung travels that’s peppered with his outrageously witty commentary.
One of India’s most celebrated photographers, Raghu Rai compiles his images from across India — those that embody the country’s rawness and its indomitable spirit — in this popular coffee table book.
Let’s face it — we’re all curious to know more about the gilded lives of the Indian royal families. Renowned photographer Tarun Chopra feeds into this demand and attempts to capture the opulent lifestyle of the erstwhile Maharajas, through their mediaeval-era palaces, some of the finest specimens of architectural marvels in the country, even today.
A coffee table book that doubles up as a tried-and-tested listening party guide, Booze and Vinyl shows you how to set the mood for 70 great musical records from the 1950s through the 2000s, by whipping up cocktails that complement them.
Digging deep into their archives, Rolling Stone has created a powerful list of the 500 greatest albums of all time (up until 2020, that is) along with some timeless anecdotes, photography, original album art, and interviews accompanying every title.