But the best travel books can also inspire journeys ... plus sunny beaches. Instead of Miami, architecture buffs would do well to check out Detroit’s underappreciated but no less stunning ...

I decided to sort books into 20 categories, identifying the single best of each. Because I couldn’t bear to shun the splendid titles that fell just short, you can find runners-up below each entry.

A suite of business products and services will help you run and manage your business. An unparalleled range of the best design, construction and architecture books from around the world. From design ...