10 Coffee Table Books Every Design Lover Should Own: A Celebration of Black Creativity in Art, Fashion & Design
The Power of Books as Design Statements
“Almost always, the creative dedicated minority has made the world better.”
Coffee table books do more than fill space — they tell stories, add texture, and spark dialogue. They reflect your taste, your values, and your creativity. At House of Xolile, we believe that what you bring into your home should speak to who you are.
This thoughtfully curated list honors the artistry, fashion, and cultural influence of Black creators whose work has shaped modern aesthetics for over a century.
Add these to your collection — or gift them to the tastemakers in your life — and watch how they transform your space.
1. Supreme Models: Iconic Black Women Who Revolutionized Fashion
Supreme Models: Iconic Black Women Who Revolutionized Fashion
Author: Marcellas Reynolds
A timeless homage to the women who redefined beauty and power. From Iman to Tyra, this book is a visual celebration of resilience and radiance.
Why you’ll love it: It’s equal parts history and glamour — the ultimate conversation piece.
2. Living Wild: How to plant style your home and cultivate happiness — Hilton Carter
Living Wild
Hilton Carter shows us how plants are more than décor — they’re living art. His interiors blend nature, modern design, and serenity in ways that feel intimate and organic.
Why you’ll love it: A must-have for the modern plant lover looking to infuse personality and calm into their space.
3. The New Black Vanguard — Antwaun Sargent
The New Black Vanguard: Photography Between Art and Fashion
Sargent’s groundbreaking work connects fashion, art, and activism — spotlighting a new generation of image-makers reshaping visual culture.
Why you’ll love it: It looks incredible on your table and reminds you of the creativity driving global fashion today.
4. Black Is Beautiful: The Photography of Kwame Brathwaite
Kwame Brathwaite: Black Is Beautiful
This book captures the soul of the “Black Is Beautiful” movement through Brathwaite’s iconic lens.
Why you’ll love it: The imagery radiates confidence, pride, and legacy — perfect for lovers of vintage aesthetics and cultural storytelling.
5. Iconic Home: Interiors, Advice, and Stories from 50 Amazing Black Designers
Iconic Home: Interiors, Advice, and Stories from 50 Amazing Black Designers
An inside look into the minds of the most influential Black designers redefining the industry.
Why you’ll love it: It’s both inspiration and guidance — a reminder that luxury design is diverse, soulful, and accessible.
6. I Can Make You Feel Good — Tyler Mitchell
I Can Make You Feel Good
Tyler Mitchell’s work invites us to see Black life through a lens of softness, joy, and authenticity.
Why you’ll love it: The visuals feel like poetry — bright, intimate, and full of modern magic.
7. Africa in Fashion: Luxury, Craft, and Textile Heritage — Ken Kweku Nimo
Africa in Fashion: Luxury, Craft, and Textile Heritage
A stunning exploration of African design heritage, from handcrafted textiles to global fashion runways.
Why you’ll love it: It bridges tradition and innovation — beautifully capturing the artistry of the diaspora.
8. Black in Fashion: 100 Years of Style, Influence & Culture
Black in Fashion: 100 Years of Style, Influence & Culture
An essential chronicle of Black style — from the Harlem Renaissance to today’s cultural icons.
Why you’ll love it: It celebrates the timeless influence of Black creators who’ve always set the standard.
9. Among Others: Blackness at MoMA
Among Others: Blackness at MoMA
A profound look at Black artists who’ve shaped the modern art movement.
Why you’ll love it: It brings depth and dialogue to your coffee table, blending history, art, and identity.
10. Superfine: Tailoring Black Style
Superfine: Tailoring Black Style
An ode to precision, presence, and personal style — this book dives deep into the history of tailoring within Black culture.
Why you’ll love it: It’s sleek, stylish, and full of swagger — a visual tribute to craftsmanship and individuality.
Design, Culture, and Form — The House of Xolile Way
Every home has its rhythm — every piece, its purpose.
These books are more than décor; they’re cultural heirlooms and creative fuel. Stack them. Open them. Live with them.
Shop a few of these titles and other artful goods in our shop Houseofxolile
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