Phaidon Design Classics is a massive 3,000+ page book that comes in three volumes. It is a wonderful collection of 999 everyday objects that are examples of inspired, intelligent design. Many different kinds of objects are covered - everything from the Bic lighter to high end furniture.

The highlighted objects are listed in chronological order - beginning with a a pair of Chinese scissors from the early 1600s and include contemporary objects such as the ipod.

While people can certainly quibble that more older objects should have been selected, or that there is too much emphasis on certain categories, or object to the inclusion of particular objects - I think it is a very cool book.

In some ways, this is the ultimate coffee table book because one can simply open it randomly and be entertained. There is a lot of ancillary information - such as patents and old advertisements - that make it interesting even beyond the design of the actual objects.

The book can be 'accessed' on a number of different levels. Consequently, I think it's a great gift for both consumers who appreciate intelligent design, as well as design professionals.

I think it is safe to say that browsing this book will deepen just about anyone's appreciation of the design of everyday objects.

Phaidon Design Classics (3 Volume Set)

Posted by Gregg.