Best Design Books

This thought-provoking book argues that product design that ignores the needs of users and principles of cognitive psychology can make even the smartest people feel inept. The author, a cognitive scientist, explains how good design can guide users effortlessly to the right action at the right time by making things visible, exploiting natural relationships, and using intelligent constraints. With an updated introduction, The Design of Everyday Things is a powerful primer on how excellent design can be the key to influencing consumer behavior.

This comprehensive book on typography covers the fundamental aspects of design: choosing fonts, sizing, alignment, spacing, and more. Ellen Lupton offers clear guidance and practical exercises for anyone wanting to improve their typography skills. Divided into letter, text, and grid sections, the book includes historical and theoretical concepts of typography, as well as examples from leading practitioners. Thinking with Type is a must-read for designers and anyone interested in typography.

A comprehensive handbook on modern typography and using the Grid System, perfect for graphic designers, typographers, and three-dimensional designers. This VERY RARE illustrated hardcover book includes English and German text, as well as drawings, diagrams, black & white photographs, and numerous examples of graphic design. Explore topics like design philosophy, the typographic grid, margin proportions, construction of the grid and type area, and more. A must-read for any designer looking to up their game.

Learn from the best in the graphic design world with this monograph, manual and manifesto by a leading designer. Michael Bierut, a protege of design legend Massimo Vignelli, showcases 35 diverse projects that demonstrate the breadth of graphic design today. With humorous anecdotes and fascinating insights into his creative process, Bierut offers a glimpse into the struggles and successes of a design professional. This inspiring and informative book is set to be the bible of graphic design ideas.

This book addresses the concerns of young graphic designers who want to create meaningful work and avoid becoming hired drones. It offers practical advice and philosophical guidance on managing the creative process, interpreting briefs, generating ideas, setting up and promoting a studio, finding work, and collaborating with clients. The book also features interviews with ten leading designers, making it an indispensable guide for any aspiring designer.

Learn how design thinking belongs in every level of business with Change by Design. Discover the collaborative process where designers match people's needs with what is technically feasible and viable to the bottom line. With new case studies included in the updated edition, this human-centered approach helps organizations become more innovative and creative. Creative leaders seeking to drive new alternatives for business and society will benefit from this visionary guide.

Discover the timeless principles of intuitive navigation and information design with this classic guide, relied on by over 400,000 web designers and developers since its first publication in 2000. In this 3rd edition, Steve Krug offers fresh perspective, updated examples, and a new chapter on mobile usability, while retaining the short, profusely illustrated, and fun to read style that has made this book a must-read for anyone working on websites. Whether you're a veteran or a newcomer, this book will show you why it's essential for web designers and developers alike.

Discover the art of typography with this masterful style guide from renowned typographer and poet Robert Bringhurst. This book combines the practical, theoretical, and historical aspects of typography, offering a completely updated edition with important revisions based on the ever-evolving field. Don't miss the expert insights and clarity that Bringhurst brings to this timeless subject.

Designing without understanding human behavior is like exploring a new city without a map. This book combines research and practical examples to deliver a guide every designer needs. Learn to design more intuitive and engaging work that matches the way people think, work, and play. Discover what grabs and holds attention on a page or screen, what makes memories stick, and much more. These are just a few of the questions this deep-dive exploration of human behavior answers.

Designing Brand Identity is the go-to resource for project managers, educators, and students looking to master the fundamentals of branding. This comprehensive guide includes sections on brand strategy, design execution, and governance, along with 50 case studies and over 700 illustrations. With over 100 branding subjects, tools, and diagrams, this book is the perfect reference for anyone looking to implement a successful brand system. Experts praise Designing Brand Identity as the ultimate guide for using design to impact people, culture, and business.