Sneakers & Shoes

12 Best Sneakers for Men to Rock at the Office

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The best work sneakers for men aren’t just about looking cool—they’re designed to blend effortlessly into office life. Yes, I’m sure we’re in a business-casual era, but that doesn’t mean you can show up to work wearing your weekend beaters. You need a pair that perfectly balances comfort and understated style. That’s the focus of this list. So, whether you’re starting a new role or looking to upgrade your current office footwear, making a good impression still matters. The right sneakers can subtly do the heavy lifting in modern workwear. From minimalist essentials to upscale leather designs, our list below features the best work sneakers for men who want to look sharp without sacrificing comfort.

Best Sneakers For Work At Glance

Alexander McQueen Oversized Sneakers | Image: Alexander McQueen

1. Alexander McQueen Oversized Sneakers

  • Colour-way: White/Nude
  • SKU: 553680WIEEN9061
  • Retail Price: USD $590

If there’s one sneaker that proves you can be both bold and office-ready, it’s this one. The Alexander McQueen Oversized Sneaker takes the classic white leather sneaker and gives it a high-fashion twist—with a chunky sole, sleek curves, and a nude suede heel tab that adds a subtle lift in all the right places.

Made from smooth calf leather and featuring a rounded toe along with a clean, low-top silhouette, this pair appears as elevated as it feels. The oversized rubber sole not only adds drama but is also lightweight and comfortable enough for all-day wear without causing fatigue. Perforated side details enhance breathability, while the contrast suede heel tab introduces just the right touch of personality without violating the office dress code.

It’s a sneaker that conveys “I know style” without being overly loud. Whether you’re dressing up tailored trousers or refreshing your business-casual look, the Alexander McQueen Oversized Sneaker adds presence, polish, and comfort to your workday lineup.

Alex Arigato Clean 90’s | Image: Alex Arigato

2. Axel Arigato – Clean 90 Sneakers

  • Colour-way: Black
  • SKU: 28116
  • Retail Price: USD $300

Minimalism at its best. The Axel Arigato Clean 90 Sneaker truly lives up to its name with a sleek, minimalist silhouette that’s far from boring. Made of smooth white leather, it’s the perfect pair to wear with just about anything—tailored slacks, relaxed chinos, or even a casual suit on dress-down Fridays.

Handmade in Portugal, this sneaker showcases a slightly cushioned footbed, a durable rubber cup sole, and a gold-stamped logo that adds a touch of flair. It’s clean, comfortable, and effortlessly cool—ideal for men who prefer their office style to be crisp and relaxed. If you’re looking for a sneaker that balances streetwear influence with Scandinavian refinement, the Clean 90 is the perfect choice. No frills. No fuss. It’s simply a pure, versatile style.

Adidas Samba OG Shell | Image: Adidas

3. Adidas – Samba OG Shell Sneakers

  • Colour-way: Core White / Green / Collegiate Green
  • SKU: JI3202
  • Retail Price: USD $100

Some sneakers come and go, but the Adidas Samba OG stays winning—decade after decade. Originally made for indoor football in the ’50s, this iconic silhouette has transitioned from the pitch to offices, cafés, and city streets around the world. Now, with the Shell edition, you get that same heritage energy wrapped in a crisp, upgraded design.

Crafted from premium leather with suede overlays and the iconic T-toe detail, this version retains the classic Samba DNA while introducing a slightly more polished finish. You’ll also discover a wide array of colour options available—whether you prefer neutrals, bold shades, or something in between, there’s a Samba that suits your office aesthetic. The Collegiate Green accents provide a retro-sporty vibe without being excessive.

These are for the guys who want their office footwear to carry a bit of legacy—and a whole lot of style. Pair them with cropped trousers, relaxed tailoring, or even a sharp polo and slacks combo. Affordable, comfortable, iconic. What more could you ask for?

Comme Des Garçons x Nike | Image: Nike

4. Comme Des Garçons x Nike – Air Force 1 Low

  • Colour-way: White/White
  • SKU: DJ7952-100
  • Retail Price: USD $150

Two icons, one ultra-clean sneaker. The COMME des GARÇONS x Nike Air Force 1 Low in all-white is a masterclass in minimalism, featuring just enough deconstructed flair to stand out among standard office sneakers. It’s bold, refined, and quietly rebellious.

This collaboration maintains the classic Air Force 1 silhouette while introducing raw-cut edges, visible paneling, and subtle texture variations that provide a signature CDG twist. It’s not loud, but it speaks volumes to those who recognize its details. The premium leather upper and timeless white-on-white finish ensure endless versatility, while the deconstructed aesthetic offers just the right touch of creative edge.

This sneaker pairs effortlessly with everything from black trousers and a tucked-in tee to a sharp button-up and blazer combination, ideal for office environments that permit a touch of stylish freedom. Consider it your everyday white sneaker, but smarter, cooler, and more sophisticated.

Reebok Club C 85 | Image: Reebok

5. Reebok – Club C 85

  • Colour-way: Chalk / Glen Green / Paper White
  • SKU: 100000886
  • Retail Price: USD $75

If you’re seeking the perfect mix of retro charm and modern wearability, the Reebok Club C 85 is the right choice. Initially introduced on the tennis courts of the ‘80s, this silhouette has become a staple for those who desire something clean, understated, and effortlessly cool. Made with a soft leather upper and detailed with tonal stitching, the Club C 85 exudes a perfect vintage charm without feeling outdated. Its chalk-white base accented by subtle green adds a touch of preppy style—ideal for both creative offices and casual work settings.

The low-cut design keeps your ankles free, while the cushioned EVA midsole and terry-lined interior provide comfort that endures throughout long days. Whether you’re wearing tailored pants, chinos, or denim, this sneaker adds a polished touch to your work outfits without appearing overdone.

Nike Air Max 90 | Image: Nike

6. Nike – Air Max 90

  • Colour-way: White / Cool Grey
  • SKU: CN8490-100
  • Retail Price: USD $130

The Nike Air Max 90 may have originated on the track, but today, it feels just as comfortable in modern offices as it does on city streets. With its clean lines, layered design, and signature visible Air unit, the AM90 provides the perfect blend of athletic flair and everyday style.

The white base maintains a fresh and professional appearance, while subtle gray and black accents provide just the right amount of contrast without being excessive. Thanks to its padded collar, cushioned midsole, and iconic Air Max bounce, this sneaker offers all-day comfort, making it ideal for long commutes, desk-hopping, and post-work plans.

If your office environment is casual or creative, the Air Max 90 is a great way to infuse some personality into your outfit without sacrificing sophistication. Combine it with tapered slacks, cuffed chinos, or even a relaxed blazer ensemble when you want to make a bold statement. It’s sporty, stylish, and designed to keep pace with your workweek hustle.

Maison Margiela Replica Sneakers | Image: Maison Margiela

7. Maison Margiela – Replica Sneakers

  • Colour-way: White
  • SKU: S57WS0236P1897101
  • Retail Price: USD $750

The Maison Margiela Replica Sneaker epitomizes quiet luxury. Inspired by classic German Army Trainers (GATs), this all-white version reduces everything to the essentials—clean lines, premium craftsmanship, and a silhouette that is both timeless and versatile.

Founded by the mysterious Martin Margiela in 1988, the Paris-based fashion house is renowned for its avant-garde design approach—often experimenting with deconstruction, anonymity, and subtle rebellion. The Replica sneaker embodies this ethos perfectly. No prominent logos, no flashy gimmicks—just refined materials, meticulous detailing, and a quiet confidence that distinguishes it from the rest.

If your office style leans towards classic, creative, or elevated casual, this sneaker fits right in without missing a beat. Pair it with crisp trousers and a tucked-in tee, or embrace full smart-casual with a knit polo and slacks. When you want your shoes to whisper style rather than shout it, the Replica delivers every time.

Maison Margiela – Yasuhiro Peterson 23 | Image: Maison Margiela

8. Maison Margiela – Yasuhiro Peterson 23 Low Top Sneakers

  • Colour-way: Black
  • SKU: A01FW702
  • Retail Price: USD $311

The Maison Mihara Yasuhiro Peterson 23 Low Top is a reimagined classic that stands out. While it draws inspiration from the legendary Chuck Taylor, it is far from a replica—it’s a distinct Japanese interpretation enhanced with a designer’s flair. Since the late ’90s, Mihara has been a visionary, creating the sneaker’s unique uneven sole from hand-molded clay, which gives it an artisanal, almost rugged character that is instantly recognizable. The outcome? A striking black low-top that merges high fashion with street-style vibe.

Like the original Chucks, these shoes pair well with almost anything—but they’re most effective when styled with intention. Combine them with cropped or tailored trousers that break just above the collar to highlight the statement sole. For creative offices or fashion-forward dress codes, the Peterson 23 adds an unexpected twist to your weekday wardrobe—artful, elevated, and designed to stand out effortlessly.

Acne Studios Steffey U-Friend Sneakers | Image: Acne Studios

9. Acne Studios – Steffey U-Friend Sneakers

  • Colour-way: Optic White
  • SKU: CD0002-DQJ
  • Retail Price: USD $540

The Steffey U-Friend Updated Sneaker by Acne Studios exemplifies the fusion of retro-futurism and minimalist design. Featuring a smooth optic white upper and gently curved lines, this sneaker is sleek, sculptural, and subtly eye-catching—ideal for the guy seeking something a bit different while remaining entirely suitable for the workplace.

Designed with a blend of paneled synthetic material and leather, it showcases embroidered Acne Studios branding on the side, a padded tongue for added comfort, and a chunky sole that provides just the right lift. It’s sporty in a designer way—less gym shoe, more gallery opening. Combine these with slim-fit trousers or a tucked knit for an office look that feels modern, sharp, and a touch of Scandinavian cool.

Greats The Royals 2.0 | Image: Greats

10. Greats – The Royals 2.0

  • Colour-way: Blanco Gum
  • SKU: GRS-1030-BLG
  • Retail Price: USD $189

When it comes to stylish, everyday sneakers that can seamlessly transition from casual Fridays to Monday meetings, the Royale 2.0 by GREATS excels at its task. Featuring a clean white leather upper and a contrasting gum sole, this pair achieves the ideal balance between polished and laid-back—precisely what you want in a work-ready sneaker.

GREATS built its reputation on elevated essentials, and the Royale 2.0 lives up to that promise. The low-profile shape and neutral colorway make it an effortless match for your weekly outfits—whether you’re going for a full business-casual look or just polishing your off-duty style. It’s minimal, versatile, and durable enough to handle the daily grind without losing its flair.

New Balance 574 | Image: New Balance

11. New Balance 574

  • Colour-way: Black / White / Grey
  • SKU: ML574EVB
  • Retail Price: USD $90

The New Balance 574 Core is a certified icon with a backstory that dates back to 1988. Originally introduced as a running shoe that balanced performance and stability, it quickly gained popularity off the track due to its comfort and understated cool aesthetic. Over time, the 574 became a lifestyle staple—and today, it’s a go-to for anyone who values classic style paired with all-day wearability.

This version features a sharp black, white, and gray colorway that makes it ideal for office outfits. The combination of suede and mesh in the upper provides the perfect balance of texture, while the ENCAP midsole cushioning offers solid support whether you’re pacing the office or on your feet all day. The retro silhouette conveys a laid-back yet polished vibe that feels perfectly suited for business-casual environments.

Pair these with chinos, relaxed tailoring, or even dark denim on casual Fridays—these sneakers exude understated confidence. With a legacy of comfort and a timeless style, the 574 Core makes dressing well at work feel effortless.

Adidas Stan Smith Lux | Image: Adidas

12. Adidas Stan Smith Lux

  • Colour-way: Cloud White / Green / Off White
  • SKU: IF8844
  • Retail Price: USD $140

The Stan Smith has long been a minimalist icon, and the Stan Smith Lux enhances that legacy to perfection. It features the same clean silhouette that has been turning heads since the ’70s—only now it is adorned in full-grain leather with just the right amount of premium detailing to elevate it from sporty staple to sophisticated everyday essential.

Featuring a crisp white upper, a soft off-white sole, and a pop of green at the heel, this version maintains its classic appeal while introducing a modern upgrade. Inside, a leather lining enhances comfort and feel, making it a sneaker that stays comfortable all day—especially as your schedule shifts from morning meetings to evening plans. The perforated Three-Stripes and timeless low-profile shape make it effortlessly versatile.

Converse Chuck Taylor All Stars | Image: Converse

13. Converse Chuck Taylor All Stars 70 High Top

  • Colour-way: Black / White
  • SKU: M9160
  • Retail Price: USD $65

Simple, iconic, and eternally stylish—the Converse Chuck Taylor All Star High Top is a sneaker that transcends generations. From rock bands and basketball courts to creative offices and casual Fridays, this canvas classic has consistently remained relevant. And in black and white? You truly can’t go wrong.

This version boasts a durable canvas upper, a signature rubber toe cap, and the unmistakable All Star ankle patch. Lightweight, breathable, and endlessly versatile, it’s the kind of sneaker that fits in just about anywhere—especially if your office has a more laid-back or fashion-forward vibe. Styled correctly (think cropped pants, neutral layers, and a confident attitude), Chucks can undoubtedly pull off the polished-casual look.

Common Projects Original Achilles Low | Image: Common Projects

14. Common Projects Original Achilles Low

  • Colour-way: Black
  • SKU: P00500513
  • Retail Price: USD $400

The Common Projects Achilles essentially introduced the concept of office-friendly sneakers with its 2004 debut. Minimalist, luxurious, and exuding quiet confidence, this shoe demonstrated that sneakers do not require loud logos or vibrant colors to stand out; they simply need impeccable design. In smooth black leather, the Original Achilles Low embodies and enhances this philosophy, providing a sophisticated option that rivals both formal shoes and fashion-forward sneakers.

Whether matched with tailored attire, crisp jeans, or a laid-back office outfit, this sneaker effortlessly complements your ensemble while subtly enhancing it. Ideal for creative workplaces, smart casual appearances, or simply demonstrating your exceptional style, the Achilles Low emphasizes timelessness over ostentation. It’s not merely a sneaker; it’s the one that defined the standard.

Why Trust Us?

This list isn’t just based on style trends or brand hype—it’s built on real-world experience. At our office, sneakers are part of our everyday uniform, and over time, we’ve learned exactly what works (and what doesn’t) when it comes to blending comfort with professionalism. Each pair featured here has been worn, tested, and loved by our team—these are the sneakers that carry us through meetings, brainstorms, coffee runs, and late-night deadlines.

We’ve curated styles that consistently deliver—be it all-day comfort, understated elegance, or the ideal balance between relaxed and refined. This guide showcases our favourites from our work wardrobes, influenced by various roles, styles, and office atmospheres. If we recommend something, it’s because we’ve lived in it—and believe you’ll also want to.

Blending Sneakers At Work | Image: Sense Orient

Tips for Wearing Sneakers to Work

Wearing sneakers to work is no longer a fashion faux pas—it’s a stylish choice. However, there’s an art to doing it right. Here are some tips to ensure your kicks feel suitable for the office and not just for the weekend:

  • Keep Them Clean – Nothing ruins a fit faster than dirty sneakers. Wipe them down regularly, safeguard them with a stain repellent, and treat them as you would a nice pair of leather shoes.
  • Match the Mood – Understand your office vibe. In creative and casual environments, you can experiment with bolder styles. For more traditional settings, opt for minimalist designs in neutral tones such as white, black, beige, or gray.
  • Elevate the Rest of Your Outfit – Balance is essential. If your sneakers are casual, ensure the rest of your outfit leans polished—tailored trousers, button-up shirts, or smart outerwear can help anchor the look.
  • Skip the Gym Shoes -Your work sneakers should be stylish, not overly sporty. Reserve running shoes for workouts and choose leather, suede, or structured canvas instead.
  • Own It – Confidence is key. When your outfit is clean, thoughtful, and fits well, sneakers won’t detract from it—they’ll elevate it. Wear them with intention.

General FAQ’s

Can You Really Wear Sneakers to the Office?

Yes, but it depends on your workplace. Many modern offices, particularly in creative, tech, and business-casual environments, are embracing sneakers as part of a polished professional look. The key is to choose styles that are clean, minimal, and well-made—think leather uppers, neutral colours, and sleek silhouettes rather than athletic or overly branded pairs.

What Color Sneakers Are Best for Work?

Neutrals are your best choice. White, black, gray, and beige provide maximum versatility and appear refined when paired with office-appropriate outfits. If your workplace tends to be more casual, a pop of colour or subtle detailing can be effective—but always strive for balance and avoid anything too flashy or loud.

How Do I Style Sneakers in a Business-Casual Outfit?

Pair your sneakers with tailored trousers, chinos, or dark denim, and keep the top half crisp—think button-ups, polos, knitwear, or casual blazers. Ensure your sneakers are clean and in good condition, and choose low-profile designs when in doubt. It’s all about blending comfort with intention so the look feels sharp, not sloppy.

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15 Coffee Table Books That Every Man Should Own

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Our team of editors and experts thoughtfully chooses each product. If you decide to buy through one of our links, we may earn a commission. Learn more. Want to know how we test products? Click here for more details.

A man’s space says a lot about him — the details, the choices, and the pieces he displays. Few things elevate a room quite like a well-chosen coffee table book. These aren’t just decorative items; they markers of taste, curiosity, and the worlds you’re interested in. The right book can start a conversation as soon as guests walk in, invite someone to slow down for a moment, or simply add depth to a space that feels both lived-in and intentional.

This collection features 15 books every modern man should own — a diverse mix of culture, design, travel, art, photography, and compelling stories. From the raw humanity of New York’s streets to the bold geometry of Ricardo Bofill, and from African surf culture to the serenity of Axel Vervoordt’s interiors, each book adds a unique layer of personality to your home. Place them on your table, shelf, or office desk — trust me, these are the kinds of books people reach for the moment they see them.

Best Coffee Table Books Overview:

Dear New York by Brandon Stanton | Image: Supplied

1. Dear New York

  • Author: Brandon Stanton
  • Published: October 7, 2025
  • Genre: Photography / Human Stories / Contemporary Culture
  • Why Must Have: A powerful, human portrait of New York told through real voices, genuine emotion and beautifully composed imagery — the kind of book that elevates any room and sparks conversation instantly.

Brandon Stanton has spent years to capturing the soul of New York, and Dear New York feels like the culmination of that journey. The book brings together intimate portraits and personal stories that show the city in a way only Stanton can — honest, vulnerable, and deeply human. Each page offers a quiet moment of connection, reminding you how many lives and emotions flow through a single place. It’s beautifully arranged, visually rich, and rooted in real experience.

rand Prix: An Illustrated History Of Formula 1 by Will Buxton | Image: Supplied

2. Grand Prix: An Illustrated History Of Formula 1

  • Author: Will Buxton
  • Published: August 13, 2024
  • Genre: Motorsport / Illustrated History / Formula 1
  • Why Must Have: A dynamic visual journey through the evolution of F1, conveyed with energy, insight, and the unmistakable voice of one of the sport’s most trusted storytellers.

If you’re a Formula 1 fan, this is the book you keep within arm’s reach. Will Buxton chronicles the sport’s defining eras with striking imagery and sharp, engaging commentary, capturing everything that makes F1 irresistible — the speed, the rivalries, the engineering breakthroughs, and the legends who shaped the grid. It’s bold, beautifully crafted, and perfectly suited for any space where motorsport and style meet.

Legendary Guitars: Explore the World’s Most Legendary Guitars by Julien Bitoun | Image: Supplied

3. Legendary Guitars: Explore the World’s Most Legendary Guitars

  • Author: Julien Bitoun
  • Published: October 28, 2025
  • Genre: Music / Photography / Cultural History
  • Why Must Have: A detailed, visually rich celebration of the most iconic guitars ever made — perfect for anyone who values craftsmanship, music history, and timeless design.

Some books earn their place on a coffee table simply by their presence, and this one certainly does. “Legendary Guitars” features the instruments that shaped rock, blues, jazz, and everything in between — each photographed carefully and paired with details that encourage you to pause and appreciate craftsmanship more deeply. Any musician or guitarist will value this on their coffee table. It combines history, design, and culture in an effortlessly cool way, making it a distinctive addition to any refined living space.

The Men’s Fashion Book by Phaidon | Image: Supplied

4. The Men’s Fashion Book

  • Author: Phaidon Phaidon Editors
  • Published: December 01, 2021
  • Genre: Fashion / Design / Visual Culture
  • Why Must Have: A comprehensive, visually captivating guide to the designers, icons, and movements that shaped men’s style across generations.

The Men’s Fashion Book is a statement piece in every sense. Bold, beautifully curated, and rich with imagery, it traces the evolution of menswear from classic tailoring to modern streetwear, highlighting the creative minds and cultural shifts that defined each era. It’s the kind of book that doesn’t just decorate a space — it reinforces an appreciation for craftsmanship, individuality, and the enduring impact of good design.

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5. Complex Presents: Sneaker Of The Year: The Best Since ’85

  • Author: Complex Media
  • Published: October 20, 2020
  • Genre: Sneakers / Pop Culture / Design
  • Why Must Have: A definitive overview of the sneakers that influenced culture, style, and hype over almost forty years — a must-read for any man interested in design and streetwear history.

There’s no guy out there who wouldn’t love to have this laying around on their side, and Sneaker of the Year does just that. It explores the most influential releases since 1985, highlighting the stories, designers, and cultural moments behind each pair. From Jordan legends to modern collaborations, the book combines striking visuals with insightful commentary, making it both a nostalgia trip and a style guide. Whether you collect sneakers or simply admire their cultural impact, this book adds a fresh, contemporary touch to any coffee table.

New York After Dark by Roger Padilha | Image: Supplied

6. New York After Dark

  • Author: Roger Padilha
  • Published: September 03, 2023
  • Genre: Photography / Nightlife / Urban Culture
  • Why Must Have: A captivating glimpse of the city that never sleeps, captured through atmospheric nighttime imagery and the unmistakable energy of New York after hours.

There’s something magnetic about New York at night, and New York After Dark captures that energy with style. Roger Padilha shows a city defined by neon, shadows, and movement — a portrait that feels intimate, cinematic, and lively. This is the kind of book that adds atmosphere and character to any room. It brings texture, attitude, and a sense of story, making it a standout piece for anyone who appreciates the rhythm of urban culture after dark.

At Work by Annie Leibovitz | Image: Supplied

7. At Work

  • Author: Annie Leibovitz
  • Published: November 19, 2024
  • Genre: Photography
  • Why Must Have: A beautifully sincere examination of creativity, discipline, and the development of a modern photographic icon.

The book provides a rare invitation into the world behind the images — the early struggles, the defining shoots, and the lessons learned along the way. It includes insights on lighting, composition, and creative decision-making alongside personal stories that reveal the mindset needed to create truly lasting work. Rich in detail and rooted in experience, At Work adds depth and sophistication to any space, making it a perfect choice for men who value mastery and the craft behind iconic photography.

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8. Cereal City Guides: Paris

  • Author: Rosa Park & Rich Stapleton
  • Published: August 16, 2022
  • Genre: Travel / Lifestyle / Design
  • Why Must Have: A beautifully curated look at Paris through design, culture, and minimal elegance — perfect for men who value thoughtful travel and clean aesthetics.

This guide distills Paris to its most thoughtful moments: the cafés perfect for a leisurely morning, the architecture that rewards quiet observation, and the shops, galleries, and streets that capture the city’s understated charm. With Cereal’s signature minimalist photography and clean layout, the book exudes calm, style, and intention. It’s the sort of piece that effortlessly rests on a coffee table and signals a taste for meaningful travel, design appreciation, and a more subdued, refined view of the world’s most romantic city.

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9. 1000 Record Covers – Michael Ochs

  • Author: Michael Ochs
  • Published: March 15, 2014
  • Genre: Music / Design / Pop Culture
  • Why Must Have: A visually rich archive of iconic album art that shaped music history, design culture and the way entire generations discovered sound.

Album covers have always been more than just packaging — they’re a snapshot of the era, the mood, and the artist’s vision. 1000 Record Covers brings that world to life, collecting some of the most influential designs from the ’60s through the ’90s in a single, beautifully curated volume. The book combines nostalgia with visual storytelling, making it a standout piece for anyone who appreciates music, art direction, and timeless graphic design. It adds character to any room and instantly attracts people for a closer look.

Young, Gifted And Black – A New Generation Of Artists: The Lumpkin-boccuzzi Family Collection Of Contemporary Art by Antwaun Sargent | Image: Supplied

10. Young, Gifted And Black – A New Generation Of Artists

  • Author: Antwaun Sargent
  • Published: September 22, 2020
  • Genre: Contemporary Art / Culture / Photography
  • Why Must Have: A bold, visually compelling celebration of emerging Black artists who are reshaping the landscape of contemporary art.

This collection brings together a new generation of painters, photographers, sculptors and multidisciplinary creators whose work carries both cultural weight and creative freedom. Antwaun Sargent curates the selection with precision, highlighting artists who challenge traditional narratives while pushing the boundaries of form, colour and storytelling. The result is a book that feels alive, forward-looking and deeply rooted in artistic evolution.

This book is vibrant, future-oriented, and deeply connected to artistic growth. When placed on a coffee table, “Young, Gifted and Black” adds a contemporary, energetic touch to any space. It demonstrates appreciation for emerging voices, new viewpoints, and the rising talents shaping the future of art history.

Afro Surf by Mami Wata | Image: Supplied

11. Afrosurf

  • Author: Mami Wata
  • Published: June 15, 2021
  • Genre: Surf Culture / Photography / African Lifestyle
  • Why Must Have: A vibrant and colourful tribute to African surf culture that adds personality and style to any space.

There’s an instant sense of freedom in this book — sun-soaked coastlines, vibrant surfboards, fearless talent, and a vibe that makes you want to grab a towel and run straight into the water. It captures the rhythm of beach life across Africa in a fun, energetic and full of character, blending bold photography with stories that bring the culture to life. Drop this on a coffee table, and you’ll see guests flipping through it right away; the colours, the waves, the attitude — all of it hits with the playfulness and spirit that every space needs.

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12. Apollo VII-XVII: Revised & Extended Edition – Floris Heyne

  • Author: Floris Heyne, Joel Meter, Simon Phillipson & Delano van der Heide
  • Published: September 16, 2019 (Revised & Extended Edition)
  • Genre: Space / Photography / History
  • Why Must Have: A stunning, carefully restored visual record of NASA’s Apollo missions — a must-have for anyone who admires exploration, engineering, and human ambition.

This revised edition presents the Apollo era with extraordinary clarity, offering a collection of photographs that seem both historic and almost surreal in their detail. From the training grounds on Earth to the stillness of the lunar surface, each image captures the scale, bravery, and precision behind each mission. The curation is sharp and immersive, allowing you to trace the journeys of astronauts who pushed the limits of possibility and reshaped humanity’s role in the universe.

And trust me — when you have guests over, this is the type of book people reach for without hesitation. Everyone is curious about what exists beyond our world, and this edition captures that sense of awe in a way few books can. It reflects curiosity, respect for innovation, and an appreciation for the men who stepped off our planet and into the unknown. A true conversation starter with visual impact.

Axel Vervoordt: Portraits Of Interiors by Axel Vervoordt & Michael Gardner | Image: Supplied

13. Axel Vervoordt: Portraits Of Interiors – Axel Vervoordt & Michael Gardner

  • Author: Axel Vervoordt & Michael Gardner
  • Published: November 5, 2019
  • Genre: Interior Design / Architecture / Art
  • Why Must Have: A serene, beautifully photographed exploration of timeless interiors from one of the most influential tastemakers in the world.

There’s something quietly powerful about Axel Vervoordt’s work, and this book captures that spirit perfectly. Each interior feels calm, intentional, and deeply connected to its surroundings — spaces built with natural materials, soft lighting, and an artist’s eye for balance. The photography is warm and atmospheric, drawing you into rooms that feel lived-in yet impeccably curated. This is the definition of understated luxury, the kind that speaks without ever needing to raise its voice.

Ricardo Bofill (New Edition) Visions of Architecture by Gestalten, Ricardo Bofill, Pablo Bofill | Image: Supplied

14. Ricardo Bofill (New Edition): Visions of Architecture

  • Author: Ricardo Bofill & Gestalten
  • Published: May 28, 2025 (New Edition)
  • Genre: Architecture / Design / Visual Culture
  • Why Must Have: A bold, visually striking journey through Ricardo Bofill’s groundbreaking work — a perfect contrast to Axel Vervoordt’s calm, understated interiors, offering your coffee table the best of two design worlds.

If Vervoordt’s interiors express tranquillity and balance, Bofill’s architecture introduces drama. This edition highlights the monumental scale, sculptural geometry, and dreamlike structures that define his vision—buildings that seem pulled from a cinematic universe. The photography captures every striking angle: concrete labyrinths, surreal housing complexes, and vast forms that challenge conventional design. Positioned alongside the serene aesthetic of Vervoordt’s work, Bofill’s world adds contrast, energy, and artistic tension to your coffee table, creating a compelling combination of design inspiration and visual storytelling.

Il Dolce Far Niente The Italian Way of Summer by Lucy Laucht | Image: Supplied

15. Il Dolce Far Niente: The Italian Way of Summer

Author: Lucy Laucht
Published: 2023
Genre: Travel / Lifestyle / Photography
Why Must Have: A sun-drenched tribute to Italian summer living — relaxed style, seaside charm, and mastering the art of slowing down.

Few things feel as inviting as an Italian summer, and this book captures that atmosphere with calm, understated elegance. The pages take you through sunlit coastlines, quiet piazzas, vintage beach clubs, and the unhurried afternoons that define il dolce far niente — the sweet pleasure of doing nothing. The photography is warm and nostalgic, highlighting a lifestyle rooted in simplicity, charm, and the joy of small, meaningful moments. Placed on a coffee table, it brings light, colour, and a relaxed Mediterranean vibe that complements the bold architecture of Bofill and the serene interiors of Vervoordt.

Why Trust Our List?

We have created this list with intention, taste, and an understanding of what genuinely elevates a man’s space. Every book here earns its place through design, storytelling, and cultural relevance. We look for pieces that add depth, spark conversations, and reflect the interests of men who care about style, craftsmanship, and the world around them. From photography and architecture to motorsport, fashion, and travel, each title offers something meaningful. These aren’t just books — they’re extensions of personality, chosen to make your home feel thoughtful, confident, and unmistakably yours.

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