Thinking about building or renovating your home? Or maybe you just love a good house book (no shame in that). Either way, the right books can open your eyes to better design, smarter layouts, and even how to avoid those "oh-no" renovation moments. Whether you're dreaming up your perfect home or knee-deep in a project, here are ten must-reads to help you create a space that feels amazing, works well, and (bonus) doesn’t turn into a money pit.
10. A Pattern Language – Christopher Alexander
This book looks like it belongs in a dusty old library, but don’t judge it by its cover. It’s a goldmine of design wisdom, breaking down the elements that make spaces feel just right. If you’ve ever walked into a room and thought, "Wow, this feels good," there’s probably a reason for that, and Christopher Alexander lays it all out.
9. 43 Principles of Home – Kevin McCloud
Yes, that Kevin McCloud—the one from Grand Designs. This book is a mix of practical advice, philosophy, and dry British wit. My favourite tip? Invest in quality when it’s something you’ll touch every day. It’s why a solid timber door handle feels a million times better than a cheap plastic one.
8. The Architecture of Happiness – Alain de Botton
Why does architecture matter? Because our homes shape how we feel. This book explores the connection between design and happiness. If you’ve ever wondered why some spaces make you feel calm and others drive you up the wall, this book will give you answers.
7. The Healthy House – Sydney Baggs & Joan Baggs
Building or renovating? This book takes a deep dive into how to create a home that’s not only energy-efficient but also healthy to live in. Covering everything from non-toxic materials to ventilation strategies, it’s an eye-opener for anyone who wants a home that looks good and feels even better.
6. The Natural House – Daniel D. Chiras
If you want to build an energy-efficient, eco-friendly home, this book is your guide. It covers everything from solar design to natural building materials in a way that’s actually interesting (no dry textbooks here).
5. Sustainable House – Michael Mobbs
Ever thought about going off-grid? This book is all about transforming a standard home into a self-sufficient one, with real-life examples from the author’s own Sydney home. If sustainability is on your radar, this book is a must-read.
4. Building Your Own Home – George Wilkie
Want to understand how a house is actually built? This book takes you through the entire process, from choosing land to working with subcontractors. A great practical resource.
3. Never Too Small: Reimagining Small Space Living – Joel Beath & Byron Smith
Living small doesn’t mean compromising on style. This book features stunning compact homes that are both practical and beautiful. Perfect for anyone looking to make the most of a smaller space.
2. [Your Home: Australia’s Guide to Environmentally Sustainable Homes]()
This free online (and print) resource is packed with solid, research-backed advice on how to create a sustainable home in Australia. It’s practical, easy to understand, and best of all, tailored to Australian conditions. You can get it online for free here, or order a paperback edition.
1. Australia's Home – Robin Boyd
Originally published in 1952, Australia’s Home remains one of the most insightful books ever written about Australian housing. Despite its age, it’s still highly relevant for understanding why our homes look and function the way they do—and it might just make you rethink what they could be in the future. Robin Boyd's writing is eloquent, poetic, and surprisingly funny, making what could be a dry history lesson into an engaging and thought-provoking read. If you want a deeper appreciation of Australian architecture, warts and all, this is a must-read.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re a hands-on renovator, a first-time builder, or just someone who loves great design, these books will help you make smarter, more beautiful choices for your home. Happy reading—and happy building!