Why Design Books Matter in a Digital World
There is only one problem with my sofa - once sat in it, nobody wants to move from their spot!
That is precisely why my favourite ritual at the end of the day is to sink into its cushions, with a beautifully designed photography or interior design book, whilst listening to music.
It feels restorative to slow down, choose a book, and spend time exploring the work of others.
Photographers A-Z by Tascher
I am always striving to elevate my work, and my coffee table books play an important part in that process.
By the way, I loathe it when people buy books for their appearance on their coffee table. I was recently reading reviews of a design book which happened to have a striking black and white cover. Several comments mentioned that the edition looked good on their coffee table but some even avowed that they had purchased the book for that sole reason. A beautiful cover alone is never a reason to own a book.
Kindle does, of course, have its place - it is great when I am travelling to access my books digitally. I remember years ago when a large proportion of my luggage weight came from books alone. After all, it is often when we are away from home, in hotels, airports, and aeroplanes that we finally have time to read. However, Kindle can never replace the sensation of holding a physical book, feeling its weight and the texture of the pages. Just this week I received the Alan Schaller book Metropolis. I cannot tell you how good it smells!! Oh, and his photos are extraordinary.
Such an easy book to flick through but full of information.
In my living room I permanently have a book on display. One of my favourite recent additions is Photographers A–Z by Taschen, a book I visit for photographic references. It is such an excellent, yet easy, book to casually flick through, all the while learning something, no matter which page one falls upon.
Robert Doisneau Quai Henri IV
I change the open page now and again to feature a different photographer. Currently, the book is open at the page featuring Robert Doisneau. During a recent trip to Paris, I bought one of his photographs which now hangs in my hall’s black-and-white gallery wall — the only image there not taken by me.
Books, like plants, add life and energy to our homes. They speak of our interests and add another layer of depth to our interiors. Perusing them is often the key to unlocking blocked creativity.
This evening I decided to visit Taschen’s site, with whom I am a collaborator, to view their photography books. Goodness, their site is overflowing with absolute treasures. It is hard to order one book only!
Take a look, see what catches your eye and let me know your favourites.
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