LOOK BOOKS

HERE’S A BUNCH OF BEAUTIFUL BOOKS YOUR COFFEE TABLE WILL THANK YOU FOR FRIENDS OF FRIENDS by FREUNDE VON FREUNDEN (336pp) “In interiors books it’s unusual to see homes with toys scattered over the fl oor and kitchen benches chock-a-block with stuff, but this tasty tome celebrates truly authentic homes and their creative dwellers. Thoroughly mesmerising. And orderly spaces get a look in, too.” Distanz; $92.50. SOTTSASS by PHILIPPE THOMÉ (500pp) “When I was young, all we ever heard about was functionalism, functionalism, functionalism. It’s not enough. Design should also be sensual and exciting.” So, apparently, said iconic Italian architect/designer Ettore Sottsass. This lavishly illustrated book – a design afi cionado’s dream – examines his rich career. Phaidon; $175. FANTASTIC MAN by GERT JONKERS AND JOP VAN BENNEKOM (288pp)Cult style-bible Fantastic Man – a men’s fashion mag for a good read, not just to look at – celebrates 10 years with this book, which features 69 fabulously infl uential and creative men. Phaidon; $59.95.

NOMA by RENÉ REDZEPI (320pp) This exquisite concoction of over 90 recipes and sublime photos is from the infl uential chef and owner of Noma restaurant in Copenhagen, René Redzepi, who has been credited with reinventing Nordic cuisine. It also contains insights into the history and food philosophy of his celebrated restaurant. Phaidon; $75. SIMPLE MATTERS by ERIN BOYLE (192pp) Filled with personal essays, projects and advice on how to be inventive and resourceful in a tight space, this li’l beauty shows that living simply is about making do with less and ending up with more: free time, time with loved ones, savings and things of beauty. Abrams; $29.99. R