Design: The whole story

REVIEW: Can the entire history of design be summed up in one book? Design: The Whole Story gives it a go.

Our Verdict

Despite focussing mainly on the 20th century, Design: The Whole story does an admirable job of explaining design history in a way that's sure to make readers keep coming back for more.

For

  • Wealth of information
  • Easily accessible
  • Beautiful images
  • Clean layout

Against

  • Twentieth century focus

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Having already covered architecture, fashion and art in their 'Whole Story' series, publishers Thames & Hudson are back with a weighty new edition that aims to tackle the entire history of design. Edited by seasoned design author Elizabeth Wilhide, Design: The Whole Story breaks down the past 300 years of design by looking at the branding, products and innovations that have shaped the way we live.

And this is where some artists and creative directors might start splitting hairs. As the book takes it upon itself to define when design began (described in this case as 'a specialist process, or a practice that is distinct from making') it's bound to overlook some areas and influences that some could argue formed the foundation of modern living.

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The Verdict
9

out of 10

Design: The whole story

Despite focussing mainly on the 20th century, Design: The Whole story does an admirable job of explaining design history in a way that's sure to make readers keep coming back for more.

Dom Carter

Dom Carter is a freelance writer who specialises in art and design. Formerly a staff writer for Creative Bloq, his work has also appeared on Creative Boom and in the pages of ImagineFX, Computer Arts, 3D World, and .net. He has been a D&AD New Blood judge, and has a particular interest in picture books.