100 Ideas that Changed Design

This inspiring book chronicles the most influential ideas that underpin design thinking. These all-important concepts have not only shaped the evolution of design throughout its history, but also continue to exert an enormous influence on contemporary design practice. Written by two renowned design experts, it provides a concise history of the subject, while offering a fascinating resource to dip into for the general reader.

From the early historic origins of craft-based design to the blossoming of Modernism thanks to the design reform movements of the 19th and early 20th centuries together with the changes brought about by increasing industrialisation and digitalisation, this book traces the most important ideas in design. From ancient times through to the Industrial Revolution, and then on to the Modern Movement, the post-war consumer society and our own digital age, design ideas have fundamentally influenced the creation of our man-made world. And newer ideas, such as Parametricism and Open-Source Design, are bound to determine the future direction of our shared material culture.

Arranged in a broadly chronological order, the ideas are presented through fascinating text and arresting visuals, 100 Ideas that Changed Design explores when each idea first evolved and the subsequent impact it has had up to the present day.

About the Authors

Charlotte and Peter Fiell are leading authorities on the history, theory and criticism of design and have written over 50 books on the subject, many of which have gone on to become bestsellers. They have also lectured widely, guest taught courses and consulted to manufacturing companies, museums, salerooms and major private collectors around the world.

Recent titles by the Fiells include The Story of Design: From the Palaeolithic to the Present, Design Museum: A to Z of Design and Designers and Modern Scandinavian Design.