8 Incredible Coffee Table Books That Will Spark Conversations

Some homes simply feel more alive and engaging out of the gate. Behind that lie the little details that make the difference. Even a single exquisite item can transform the room for good. And when it comes to your living space, few things speak volumes quite like a thoughtfully chosen coffee table book.

More than posh décor, coffee table books are a window into your personality, passions, and world. This philosophy resonates deeply with the collectable-grade items we curate at Banaras Bhang. But these books aren’t meant just to sit pretty. Travel books, for instance, are meant to be picked up, pored over, and, most importantly, to break awkward silences and spark conversations that take you and your guests beyond the everyday.

Are you curious how these treasures can ignite your social life and make for an attractive bookcase? Let’s walk you through eight one-of-a-kind designer coffee table books from Assouline’s signature collections that you’ll absolutely love to showcase.

1. African Adventures: The Greatest Safari on Earth

Are you longing for an escape? Travel books promise to ignite conversations about adventure, travel, and the beauty of our planet. The African Adventures is your armchair ticket to the heart of Africa, the most extraordinary continent. Aline Coquelle’s stunning lens captures raw encounters with incredible creatures – a lioness with her cubs, and an elephant calf exploring its world. Through breathtaking stills and Deborah Calmeyer’s meticulously planned itinerary, you’ll virtually journey to Victoria Falls, the Okavango Delta, and beyond, all from your living room.

2. The Impossible Collection of Cars

Enter the rarefied world of automotive collecting with The Impossible Collection of Cars. This luxury coffee table book, part of Assouline’s renowned ‘Impossible Collection,’ presents 100 of the 20th century’s most extraordinary vehicles. Each car, from head-turning vintage icons to modern marvels, symbolises innovation and peak design. Apart from the visuals, this book features vehicles that once belonged to legends like Elvis Presley and Marlene Dietrich. It's a collector's dream, packaged in a striking black rubber clamshell and accompanied by white gloves.

3. St. Tropez Soleil by Simon Liberati

From a humble legend to a celebrity magnet, St. Tropez has captivated the world for over half a century. The beautifully photographed travelogue of St. Tropez Soleil unveils the story behind this iconic French Riviera escape. Award-winning writer and journalist Simon Liberati guides us through its stories past, from literary inspiration for Françoise Sagan to artistic musings for Mattise. Relive the glamorous days of Brigitte Bardot and the jet-setting era of Jagger. This volume also captures the enduring joie de vivre that defines the Tropezian spirit, showcasing annual traditions, exclusive events, and the eternal allure of the Mediterranean sun.

4. Jaipur Splendor by Mozez Singh & Maharaja Sawai Padmanabh Singh

Through stunning photography and insightful texts, Jaipur Splendor captures the essence of Jaipur and not just its renowned landmarks. This coffee table book, a collaboration between Mozez Singh and HH Maharaja Sawai Padmanabh Singh, offers an intimate glimpse into the ‘Pink City’: its majestic palaces, vibrant markets, and the heart of its cultural soul. Let these travel books be your gateway to spark lively discussions about Indian history, royal life, and the grandeur of the royal Rajasthan.

5. The Impossible Collection of Wine

A cellar filled with only the most exquisite wines is a dream for any connoisseur. The Impossible Collection of Wine, this luxurious volume, curated by world-renowned sommelier Enrico Bernardo, celebrates the artistry and craft of winemaking across a century. From iconic champagnes like the 1928 Krug to legendary Penfolds Grange, discover vintage chosen for their rarity, taste, and unique story. This hand-bound coffee table book, presented in a wooden crate and with Assouline’s signature luxury, will prepare you for engaging conversations about terroir, vintages, and the pursuit of perfection.

6. Tokyo Chic by Andrea Fazzari

If you’re looking for an insider’s guide to Japan’s capital, Tokyo Chic offers an immersive tour of this iconic metropolis, authored by acclaimed photographer Andrea Fazzari. As a long-time resident, Fazzari shares her perspective on Tokyo’s avant-garde beauty, from its close-knit neighbourhoods to urban living to its refined Japanese cuisine and magnificent architecture. Through her expert eye and exclusive testimonies, you too can enjoy Tokyo’s undeniable chic spirit with a side of mocha latte.

7. Mykonos Muse by Lizy Manola

Windmill-swept Mykonos, bathed in Aegean blue, is more than just a beautiful Greek island. For decades, it has been a free-spirited haven for artists like Le Corbusier and the gay community. The Mykonos Muse coffee table book explores its mesmerising cosmopolitan culture, whitewashed architecture, and legendary beaches. Photographer Lizy Manola, with her close connection to Mykonos spanning thirty years, reveals a Cycladic chronicle stretching back millennia alongside its vibrant present as ‘Ibiza of Greece,’ a Bohemian sanctuary.

8. Miami Beach by Horacio Silva

Miami: a cultural melting pot where art thrives on every corner. A global destination of captivating contrasts, It is a year-round feast for the senses, be it the sun-drenched beaches, vibrant nightlife, classic eateries, or the booming art deco scene. Travel books like the Miami Beach dives into this exhilarating hotspot, guided by travel writer Horacio Silva. This one’s a must-have if you want to ignite conversations about Miami’s irresistible energy, urban evolution, and timeless style.

Complete the Collection: Premium Coffee Table Books at Banaras Bhang

These exceptional coffee table books, available at Banaras Bhang, will enrich your coffee talks with stories, traditions, and landscapes from different corners of the world. As featured above, volumes like African Adventures and Tokyo Chic, alongside others, such as Formula 1: The Impossible Collection, showcasing automotive dreams in print, offers a perfect starting point for fascinating discussions.

Inspired to cultivate your own collection of conversation-sparking treasures? Discover the Assouline range at Banaras Bhang, alongside our broader selection of premium décor and collectables designed to express your taste and become cherished elements in your living space.

Explore Extraordinary Coffee Table Books Now at Banaras Bhang.

Explore Extraordinary Coffee Table Books

FAQs

1. Are coffee table books just for display, or are they meant to be read?

While visually stunning, the books mentioned above are absolutely meant to be enjoyed beyond display! Encourage guests (and yourself) to pick them up, browse the pages, and delve into the content. They’re designed to be both beautiful objects and sources of information and inspiration.

2. How can I care for my premium books to keep them in excellent condition?

Preserve the books’ beauty by keeping them away from direct sunlight and moisture. Dust them regularly with a soft cloth. For valuable additions, consider storing them in their protective cases when not in use. Handle them with clean hands to prevent fingerprints and ensure their lasting elegance as treasured possessions.

3. Beyond the living room table, where else can I style books at home?

Consider placing them on entryway consoles to make a stylish first impression, on bookcases to add visual interest, or even stacked on side tables in bedrooms. Experiment with different locations to enhance your overall decor.

4. Besides travel books, what other popular themes does Banaras Bhang recommend for a well-rounded collection?

Broaden your collection with diverse themes, such as art, fashion, photography, architecture, and wildlife. Explore culinary arts, history, or niche interests to personalise your display. For a curated selection of coffee table books spanning many interesting themes, check out the collection available at Banaras Bhang. Here, you’ll discover volumes to complement any discerning aesthetic!