Did you know, Madonna's 1992 coffee table book 'Sex' sold (within days) 1.5 million copies worldwide? As per Wikipedia, it is considered both the fastest-selling and best-selling coffee table book in publishing history.
What does that say about us? That we love boldness. That controversy sells. That art, celebrity and culture collide in the most unexpected ways.
Affiliate links hang out in this post.
The books on your coffee table aren't simply decorations; they're statement pieces. Reflecting our interest in culture, photography, travel, design and too, sex.
The type of books to transform any coffee table into conversation starters.
Who's coffee table books am I referring to? It's Taschen's. Books by Taschen encapsulate lush illustrations and cultural depth. And on your coffee table, is sure to not only complement your style but draw in anyone who lays eyes on them. With their stunning visuals and rich storytelling, Taschen books encourage guests to dive deep into their pages, engaging them with compelling narratives.
Are Coffee Table Books Still Popular?
A valid question in an age where we have mostly gone digital. Yet, not only are coffee table books in vogue but highly sought after.
Not convinced? Have a look at your coffee table. Is there a glossy hardcover resting there on the magic of New York, or a 'clamshell box finished in silk cloth' Valentino, or a 'signed and numbered linen-slipcase' covering fine watches? Sure there is but if not, Taschen is where you start.
Why Taschen?
A strong brand in the publishing circles, titles from Taschen are renowned for their high-end, in depth exploration books on art, photography, fashion. Their books judge well by their cover. The content inside just as impressive as the outside.
Plus, if you already have a coffee table, it suggests you're currently operating at peak sophistication. Maybe it is a Fendi Casa or Boca do Lobo coffee table. So for coffee table books that match your vibe, Taschen is your matchmaker.
But even if you don't, these books are potentially investment pieces.
Curating a Collection
In building a collection, the focus is on variety, Taschen brings the quality. Look to include diverse subjects. The likes of travel, culinary arts, photography, interior design. And ideally from a reputable publisher such as Taschen. Add in a few high-quality books that resonate with your personal experiences to add warmth.
Additionally, regularly rotate your display to keep it fresh and engaging for your guests.
Mix the sizes too. Go XL, XXL, Baby Sumo and Sumo. Big here is better.
Your Taschen Books Speak Volumes
Want to be judged; along with the books on your coffee table? Here is where you curate your coveted collection effortlessly. These are your icebreakers at your next gathering.
The Discerning Style, Food and Travel Guides: Living in Bali, 45th Ed. and The Gourmand’s Egg, A Collection of Stories and Recipes
The iconic collection: Virgil Abloh, Nike (Icons)
Limited Editions: Shoes A-Z, The Collection of The Museumat FIT. Manolo Blahník Edition and David Hockney, A Bigger Book (Sumo)
Unconventional Reads: Dian Hanson, The Bigger Book of Breasts and Dian Hanson, The Big Book of Legs and Dian Hanson, The Little Big...
Best Sellers: Edward S․ Curtis, The North American Indian and Helmut Newton (Sumo)
Taschen's In Demand
Stanley Kubrick's The Shining. One to get before they're out of stock.
Stanley Kubrick's The Shining
Taschen Books and Bookstores
Next to the Saatchi Gallery, in the Duke of York Square is where you'll find Taschen's London store. Light filled and spacious on the ground floor and just as spacious but abound with colour on its lower ground area. Here, you can browse, buy and have it gift wrapped.
Worldwide, there are another eleven book stores including Beverly Hills, Berlin, Madrid, Milan and Hong Kong.
But just in case none of their boutiques are on your step, lose yourself with an untold story, online.
Remember, in a world where personal expression is highly sought after, your books speak volumes for you on your coffee table. Books whose pages you'll be leaving through time and time again.
So tell me, which of Taschen's book will you be putting on your coffee table next?
