A Bookish Lunch

And a few favorite design books

Midday comes tumbling down faster than I expect. I’ve spent the morning hopping from point to point on my to-do, wedging things as best I can into my container of time, hoping to do right by all that’s scribbled down. I’ve perused rug samples, problem solved with a tile installer, ordered a new glass shade for a pendant light that was broken during install, and volleyed emails with business professionals. When I glance up to see both hands on twelve, it’s time to take a minute with lunch and a book.

It’s one of my favorite parts of the day, that pause midway to nourish and reset, and I can hardly imagine it without a book near my plate (which this time offers an elementary lunch of PB&J with potato chips and a cold glass of milk, an unusual choice for me, but sometimes, it’s just right).

This time, I get lost in the inspiring rooms created by interior designer Heidi Caillier in her new book, Memories of Home. It’s refreshing to see homes with soul and life, not intended to be trendy or splashy, but beautiful and nurturing. And, I especially love design books that tell the why behind the work, the room, the house, and the people.

I think of the other design books that are among my favorites, for that very reason. Here are some (though certainly not all), should you want to fall between pages for a bookish lunch, too.

Patina Farm

A Place To Call Home

The Great American House

The Not So Big House

The Main House

Remodelista: A Manual For The Considered Home

Still: The Slow Home