Even in the age of the internet, hyperconnectivity, and IA, the charm of the printed book has remained (fortunately) intact. The sound of flipping pages, the scent of ink, the texture of paper, and the unique freedom—only allowed to the boldest readers—of scribbling notes, underlining passages, or folding corners. There are design books to be read carefully, which, for years, have passed down the foundations of the discipline. There are photographic publications to browse eagerly, and coffee table books to showcase like precious objects, speaking volumes about one’s passions and identity.
Curious about which design books to gift—or recommend—to a lighting designer? Ready to find out what truly deserves a place on a lighting specialist’s bookshelf? Discover our selection of five must-have titles, spanning different styles, themes, and publishing formats. Explore these choices and consider adding them to your own collection or that of someone else.
Lighting Designer’s Manual, Tecniche Nuove
It’s the “bible” of lighting designers, a hefty tome of over 1,000 pages (as thick as a dictionary) that has replaced the older Manuale di Illuminotecnica, published in 1999. This book serves as the foundation for many academic courses and master’s programs, as it explores the scientific, technical, and practical aspects of lighting design. Written by Pietro Palladino—one of the most well-known professionals in the field—it reflects his dual experience as designer and educator. The manual explores lighting design from every angle and, in the final chapter, even covers design methodologies for common applications: museums, offices, places of worship, hospitals, and sports facilities.
Pietro Palladino, Manuale del Lighting Designer – teoria e pratica della professione. Tecniche Nuove, 2019. 1056 pages, €159
Architectural lighting design
This book provides a direct and practical guide to architectural lighting for interior spaces. It explains how to choose appropriate light sources and color temperatures, supported by clear examples and accessible graphics. The book stands out for its straightforward overview of common mistakes to avoid in architectural lighting.
Admir Jukanovic, Architectural Lighting Design. A Practical Guide. The Crowood Press, 2018. 159 pages, €19.95
My light – Dean Skira
Published in 2010, this book gathers the most significant works of Dean Skira, a leading figure in lighting design. Each page blends visual immersion with insights into his approach, paralleling the engaging character of the spaces he creates.
AA.VV., My Light – Dean Skira. Lupetti, 2010. 143 pages, €20
Achille Castiglioni, Corraini Edizioni
This book captures the playful and clever spirit of Achille Castiglioni’s design philosophy. Although not exclusively about lighting, the book explores the origins of his iconic lamps, such as the Snoopy, Arco, and Luminator, through witty illustrations by Steven Guarnaccia and texts by Paola Antonelli. Conceived for his 1997 MoMA exhibition, the book is both educational and delightful.
Paola Antonelli, Steven Guarnaccia, Achille Castiglioni. Corraini Edizioni, 2000. 168 pages, €22
Branded coffee table books
Several companies choose to share their history and identity through artfully designed large-format volumes—authentic coffee table books.
Printed in limited editions, these books are frequently distributed as exclusive corporate gifts; however, with the right connections, it’s often possible to obtain a copy. A perfect gift for any lighting design enthusiast.
Among the most sought-after branded coffee table books are the Annual Reports by Zumtobel, which are always created in collaboration with internationally renowned architects and artists; First House of Light by Louis Poulsen; and Elements of Light by Flos.