What makes a truly good design? This comprehensive reference guide explores the evolution of design through the key designers, manufacturers, objects and the movements they inspired—from the Arts and Craft movement to the digital age.

Design is all around us, from the chairs we use at work, to the crockery we eat on and the cars we drive. The pages of this book are packed with fabulous images of objects, technology, prints, buildings, and interiors that will help you explore the fascinating history of design movements, illustrating how and why different styles emerged and became popular.

Explore the big historical moments in design such as the Art Nouveau, Art Deco, mid-century modern and contemporary movements. This reference book will show you how each one began, its philosophy, and its visual style. This volume also includes all of the great names and manufacturers who have influenced the field of design such as William Morris, the Bauhaus, Alvar Aalto, Frank Lloyd Wright, and Vitra in extraordinary detail.