Industrial Design A–Z (Bibliotheca Universalis)

I teach with this book, and have been eagerly awaiting this revised edition. It does not disappoint! The Fiells have done their usual excellent work updating the book. There are new entries, existing entries that had aged have been refreshed, and tough decisions about what to eliminate to make room for the progress have been made gracefully. Because my students will wonder if older editions are comparable, I assume others will be curious, so here are the obvious changes: The new edition is about 40 pages longer than previous versions. There are 32 new entries to update and improve the content. Some are necessary and expected (to satisfy the Yves Béhar, Marc Newson, and Karim Rashid fans), while some are added to strengthen the historical narrative (Portsmouth Block Mills, Charles Babbage). The price tag for this new content is the 30 entries that have been removed. A careful reader might lament the loss of some (NASA, Sharp, Rubbermaid, Trevor Baylis…) but it would be impossible to complain about the decisions, as the book remains an excellent overview of industrial design in a publishing landscape that offers so few good options. Nearly 20 entries have been substantially updated to bring their subjects into the decade since the book was last revised. One other advantage is printing technology; this edition is in full color, and it makes what was already a visual celebration even more satisfying. Even the pictures of designers and patent reproductions benefit from richer tones. All entries that used to have black and white images have been upgraded to full color pictures. This is a LOT of book and a lot of great writing, editing, and information for the price, and remains a clear choice for learning about industrial design and its history.

Bought this as a Christmas gift for my son In law who is in industrial design as he loves it! Love the little size of it, great color pictures and easy to read. Great quality.

Industrial Design A-Z" is more than just a reference book; it's a celebration of creativity, innovation, and the enduring impact of industrial design on our daily lives. Whether used for academic purposes, professional inspiration, or sheer enjoyment, this book is a treasure trove of knowledge and a visual feast. Highly recommended!

Book came with a red stain on the cover

Box was too heavy and damaged my books.

Font is too small. Can't read

It's a great collection of ID history but I think there could be more emphasis on the impact of designer(s)/company(s).

Oh Moldy night 🙏🏼 My cousin’s gift was ruined 🎁 This book’s not right 📕 It was delivered in mildew 🍄 Faaaaaall on your kneeeeees Ohh breeeeeaathe the pages’ fungus Oh niiiiiiiiiiight decaaaaay Oh night The box was opened 📦 .... but seriously, this publisher needs to better check the condition of the book before it is shipped. If this gift is exchanged for a new one I hope it comes brand new and clear of any mold! 🙏🏼