10 Inspiring Books Recommended by a Design Professor

10 Inspiring Books Recommended by a Design Professor

※ Design is a field that blends creativity, problem-solving, and technical skill. Whether you’re a budding designer or a seasoned professional, diving into thought-provoking literature can refine your perspective and ignite new ideas. Here are 10 books a design professor recommends, covering various aspects of design, from theory to practice. 😅

 

1. "The Design of Everyday Things" by Don Norman

A must-read for understanding usability and human-centered design.

Why It’s Recommended:

Don Norman’s insights on how people interact with objects emphasize the importance of intuitive design. This book is essential for designers aiming to create user-friendly and effective products.

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2. "Thinking with Type" by Ellen Lupton

A definitive guide to typography.

Why It’s Recommended:

Typography is a fundamental aspect of design, and Lupton provides a practical and artistic look at how to use type effectively in any project.

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3. "Creative Confidence" by Tom Kelley and David Kelley

Unlocking your creative potential.

Why It’s Recommended:

This book explores how everyone can harness creativity to solve problems. The Kelleys, founders of IDEO, share stories and strategies to inspire innovative thinking.

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4. "Steal Like an Artist" by Austin Kleon

A fresh perspective on creativity.

Why It’s Recommended:

Austin Kleon demystifies creativity by emphasizing that originality comes from borrowing and remixing ideas. This book is perfect for designers seeking fresh inspiration.

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5. "How to Use Graphic Design to Sell Things, Explain Things, Make Things Look Better, Make People Laugh, Make People Cry, and (Every Once in a While) Change the World" by Michael Bierut

Insights from a design legend.

Why It’s Recommended:

Michael Bierut offers real-world advice and showcases how design impacts every aspect of life. This book is as inspiring as it is practical.

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6. "Make It Stick: The Science of Successful Learning" by Peter C. Brown, Henry L. Roediger III, and Mark A. McDaniel

Understanding the science behind learning and memory.

Why It’s Recommended:

Design isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s also about conveying information effectively. This book helps designers understand how people learn, crucial for creating impactful designs.

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7. "A Designer’s Art" by Paul Rand

A timeless exploration of design principles.

Why It’s Recommended:

Paul Rand, one of the greatest graphic designers of the 20th century, shares his thoughts on the creative process and the philosophy behind good design.

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8. "Change by Design" by Tim Brown

An exploration of design thinking.

Why It’s Recommended:

Tim Brown, CEO of IDEO, delves into how design thinking can solve complex problems and foster innovation. This book is a guide to applying design principles beyond traditional contexts.

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9. "Grid Systems in Graphic Design" by Josef Müller-Brockmann

Mastering structure in design.

Why It’s Recommended:

For designers focused on layout and composition, this book offers a deep dive into grid systems and their application in creating visually harmonious designs.

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10. "Design as Art" by Bruno Munari

A philosophical take on design.

Why It’s Recommended:

Bruno Munari’s essays explore the intersection of art and design, urging readers to see beauty in functionality. It’s a thought-provoking read for anyone passionate about the aesthetics of everyday objects.

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Conclusion

Design is more than just making things look good—it’s about solving problems, communicating ideas, and improving experiences. These 10 books, recommended by a design professor, provide a wealth of knowledge, from practical techniques to philosophical insights. Whether you’re honing your craft or seeking inspiration, these titles will enrich your journey as a designer.