Coffee table books are the ultimate niche gift for the special people on your holiday gift-giving list. Our recommendations include some of the best published in 2012.
Modern Living Accessories: 100 Years of Design
edited by Martin Wellner and Andrea Mehlhose
Many of us take the common items we use every day in our homes for granted, forgetting the fashion or social trends that inspired the designers. In Modern Living Accessories, Martin Wellner and Andrea Mehlhose present a century of stunning household items, from dishes, clocks and tea kettles to lamps, chairs and even desk calendars. More than just a gallery of designs, this gorgeous book introduces the artists and explains the sociocultural context of hundreds objects that beautify our homes. Providing both fascinating reading and a visual treat, Modern Living Accessories will be treasured by the art lover and/or home decorator on your list.
Wine Grapes
by Jancis Robinson, Julia Harding, and Jose Vouillamoz
The subtitle to Wine Grapes sums up this all-inclusive reference: A Complete Guide to 1,368 Vine Varieties, Including Their Origins and Flavours. Beautifully presented in a slip box, this definitive guide covers everything a wine enthusiast would ever want to know, such as the genetic makeup of grape varieties and their histories, vineyard conditions and common names. Of course the authors also discuss tasting notes as well as the best vintages and vintners. Full-page classic illustrations of grape clusters plus several fold-out charts enhance the meticulously researched text. Described by some as the wine-lover’s bible, Wine Grapes is the ultimate gift for serious wine lovers.
Incomparable Women of Style
by Rose Hartman
Society photographer Rose Hartman has captured the images of some of the most famous women in recent history. From behind the camera, she has witnessed the latest trends, whether on the runway or in the hottest New York club. Incomparable Women of Style collects more than three decades of her work, presenting both well-known images and never-before-seen photographs of the rich and famous. The glamorous women who grace these pages include the expected icons, such as Jackie O. and Lauren Hutton, along with a few surprises, like Candace Bushnell and Joan Hemingway. This arresting collection will delight photography, fashion and pop culture lovers of any age.
J’Aime New York
by Alain Ducasse
Whether you’re looking for the best milk shake, the juiciest steak or the hottest celebrity chef restaurant, you’ll find it in New York City. Fortunately, Alain Ducasse has done all the legwork for you in his new homage to the city’s restaurants, J’Aime New York. This deliciously photographed tome describes 150 restaurants and foodie spots, including not just famous eateries but also bars, delis and markets. Moving from coffee table to dining table, the book comes with a pocket-size version you can take with you next time you’re hungry in the city. Give J’Aime New York to dedicated foodies and frequent travelers, no matter where they live.
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