Stephanie Murg

Critic; Writer; Editor / United States / UnBeige

Stephanie Murg’s Notable Books of 2013

2 books
Jennifer Hudson

Like fine art, the world of design can be intimidating territory for newbies. More than once I’ve received an e-mail that essentially asks, “Where do I start?” A new book offers a just-the-objects snapshot of contemporary design that would otherwise require weeks of trawling the web, poring over design and shelter magazines from around the world, and more than one pilgrimage to Milan’s Salone del Mobile. Behold The Design Book, an image-filled survey that promises “1,000 new designs for the home and where to find them.”

Editor and researcher Jennifer Hudson has organized the sourcebook into nine chapters, including tables and chairs, sofas and beds, electronics, and miscellaneous, a catch-all where you’ll find everything from Eero Aarnio’s “Diva” watering can to a sleek coffin (in eco-friendly lacquer) by Timothy Jacob Jensen. Scattered among the objects, which are identified by name, designer, material, dimensions, and manufacturer or vendor (unfortunately the book is oddly devoid of dates), are Q&As with the likes of Jaime Hayon, Piet Hein Eek, Xavier Lust, and Nendo, who notes, “We see our job as being able to give people small ‘!’ moments”—the objects in this book offer many such little epiphanies for those looking to take the pulse of design for the home.

Maria Gabriela Brito

Maria Gabriela Brito transforms living spaces with carefully selected works of contemporary art, but she doesn’t stop there. “Who says that an entire room can’t be inspired by Frida Kahlo’s life, Marc Jacobs’ runway collection, or Sophia Loren’s movies?” asks the Venezuelan-born, New York-based interior designer in a new book that is as colorful and exuberant as its author. Out There begins with a memoir-cum-mood board introduction to Brito and some of her favorite artists before showcasing apartments that have benefited from her vibrant makeovers and ends with a “go-to guide” sourcebook for design newbies and veterans alike.

comments powered by Disqus