What Is Good Design?: A Simple Question without a Simple Answer

What do a folding bicycle, umbrella, toilet brush, and water bottle all have in common? They are examples of good design—something we often recognize but can’t express in words. This graphically delightful book is guaranteed to raise readers’ Design IQ by defining the seven characteristics of good design. Each chapter describes one characteristic, accompanied by five product examples illustrated in cut-paper art. The colorful artwork and clear, simple language make complex and sometimes abstract ideas easy to understand, even for those without a design background. Creatives of all ages will enjoy learning about a wide range of smartly designed, everyday objects that work well, look beautiful, open our minds to new ideas, and stand the test of time.

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Mr. Waffles Loves Design

When noted design collector and published author Lisa S. Roberts discovered her new shelter cat climbing, jumping, rubbing and sleeping on her contemporary furniture and products, rather than freaking out, she began snapping photos. This became the inspiration for this whimsical and lavishly illustrated book.

Mr. Waffles, a sleek black Burmese cat, offsets the bright colorful designs by world-famous architects and designers. Each spread includes original photography of cat and design, a brief informative description, and a humorous “observation” or “comment” by critic Mr. Waffles. This feline doesn’t just see a chair; he sees a potential scratching post, gym. His curiosity amuses throughout as he tips over trash cans, sniffs toilet brushes, poses in chairs, plays chess, and sits on top of a circular bookshelf. Design just got a whole lot more entertaining with Mr. Waffles leading the way.

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DesignPOP

DesignPOP explores game changing design and the explosion of innovation in the 21st century. What is a game changer in the world of design? It could be a product that pioneers the use of new materials or a new production process. Or a new typology that alters our expectations about what something should look like. Game changing design pushes boundaries, creating new possibilities—and ultimately products that enrich our lives.

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Antiques of the Future

“Lisa Roberts’ book is a stylish and lighthearted look at everyday objects that, over time, will gain value as excellent examples of late 20th- and early 21st- century design. But beware. Once read and absorbed, the message is clear:  You must keep every well-designed object you buy—down to the lowly toilet bowl brush—or you risk tossing out an “Antique of the Future!”  Michael Graves

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