Forums: Design:

We're extending our library with an Amazon spree and I would like to find some good design books.

Any suggestions of books that are generally about the visual design of interfaces and software (or even objects, houses, information etc) that you find inspiring. Something along the lines of Tufte with a strong visual appeal.... and not necessarily so academic.

tia

Because any design library would be empty without some typography, I'd say almost anything by Jan Tischold.

I'll give some thought to other stuff latah.

Jan Tschichold

Great suggestion. While we're not looking for design books for design sakes (more inspiration sake than anything) the Tschichold books look great.

for inspiration, I like surface magazine



sorry, I have no recommendation for design/inspiration books

If you're at all interested in colour, I strongly recommend Johannes Itten.

Otherwise, it kind of sounds like what you're after (if not specifically interface/software) would be more along the lines of industrial design... try a search on Amazon and you should find lots of stuff that would fit the bill or at least get a better idea of what you're looking for.

Definitely a complete set of Tufte. EVERY library needs "Visual Display..." at a minimum.

And laugh if you want, but I liked "The Non-Designer’s Design Book" by Robin Williams.

And subscribe to some pretty magazines while you're about it. I find I'm as likely to lift an idea from a cologne ad in Playboy as from a 'design' book.

But I'm not much of a designer, so feel free to ignore everything I say.

Communication Arts.

Good reccommendation.

And Clarky meant Hustler.

thanx guys.

Snepo's ordering in over $600 worth of books for the library. Can't wait

whaaatt .. a $600 subscription to hustler?? I hope that comes with nekkid page turners !
You realise that you'll also have to order furniture for that library - more aerons to go with the rest of the furniture of course
Are you after just reference books with design principle type stuff or inspirational reference material?
As mentioned above, mags do also provide enlightening info. Among others already suggested, I'll rifle through Desktop Magazine when it comes out. If you haven't already you'll also find there's a good network of contacts to be gleaned from it as well.

So, Arsis - what did you guys end up acquiring?

Hope it's not too late to chime in here... I've recommended this book before but it's worth mentioning again:

Universal Principles of Design: 100 Ways to Enhance Usability, Influence Perception, Increase Appeal, Make Better Design Decisions, and Teach Through Design

The book is really an excellent reference and, although not the deepest resource on topics, it covers a ton of stuff and is super handy and easy to use. Be sure to check the reviews on the above Amazon link. Also, the cross referenced contents section that groups results based on specific needs/questions is awesome. Check the 'look inside this book' area to get a better idea of what I'm talking about.

New books... so tasty!

Doran, that does look good. I'll put it on the list for the next batch.

Ari - I ended up only asking for a couple of books. The rest of the crew got a ton though. One book that I ordered that I reckon you would enjoy is Shelter. Be sure to check out the page layout if you don't already know the book.

Interesting, looks like a good one.