For anyone passionate about design, having a collection of iconic design books is essential. Whether you are a seasoned designer or a newcomer to the field, these books offer invaluable insights, inspiration, and foundational knowledge. They cover various aspects of design, from graphic design to architecture, and help nurture creativity. Gifting a designer these books not only enhances their library but also promotes continuous learning in their craft. Here are 14 iconic design books that will serve as great gifts for designers, showcasing their influence in the design world and providing lasting value.
Jesse James Garrett breaks down the components of user experience design, making it an excellent resource for UX designers as they develop their skills.
The Elements of User Experience: User-Centered Design for the Web and Beyond (2nd Edition) (Voices That Matter)
$41.16
Outstanding User Interfaces with Shiny (Chapman & Hall/CRC The R Series)
$57.24
Potentia: Bonds Forged: Chronicles of an Urban Elemental, Book 3
$0.00
Intellectus: Origins Discovered: Chronicles of an Urban Elemental, Book 5
$0.00
This classic book by Don Norman is essential for understanding user-centered design. It emphasizes the importance of intuitive design and how everyday objects can be improved for usability.
Daniel Kahneman’s exploration of how we think affects design decisions. This book is a perfect gift for designers wanting to understand behavioral economics in design.
Steve Krug’s straightforward guide to web usability will resonate with anyone involved in digital design, making it a must-read for designers.
Don't Make Me Think, Revisited: A Common Sense Approach to Web Usability (3rd Edition) (Voices That Matter)
$28.55
The Path to Senior Product Designer: An Actionable Growth Plan for a UX Design Career
$37.05
Solving Product Design Exercises: Questions & Answers
$36.13
I Don't Have to Make Everything All Better: Six Practical Principles that Empower Others to Solve Their Own Problems While Enriching Your Relationships
$15.59
The intersection of art and design is beautifully explored by Bruno Munari, making this book a thoughtful gift for designers who appreciate creativity.
Paul Rand’s philosophy of graphic design is beautifully illustrated in this book, providing wisdom on the design process that every designer should know.
Austin Kleon’s guide to creativity in the digital age encourages artists and designers to embrace influence and create their own unique work.
Steal Like an Artist: 10 Things Nobody Told You About Being Creative (Austin Kleon)
$9.69
Start Writing Your Book Today: A Step-by-Step Plan to Write Your Nonfiction Book, From First Draft to Finished Manuscript
$4.99
The Steal Like an Artist Journal: A Notebook for Creative Kleptomaniacs
$10.78
The Steal Like an Artist Audio Trilogy: How to Be Creative, Show Your Work, and Keep Going
$0.00
Josef Müller-Brockmann’s timeless work on grid systems is crucial for graphic designers, ensuring they have a strong foundation in design layout.
Grid systems in graphic design: A visual communication manual for graphic designers, typographers and three dimensional designers (German and English Edition)
$34.99
Grid Systems: Principles of Organizing Type
$2.99
New Page Design: Layout and Editorial Design
$37.97
Josef Müller-Brockmann Suttl: Pioneer of Swiss Graphic Design
$29.40
Adrian Shaughnessy's guide offers practical advice for designers on navigating their careers while staying true to their artistic vision.
Kenya Hara shares his insights on the artistry and philosophy of design, offering inspiration for designers seeking to deepen their understanding of their craft.
The Interior Design Reference & Specification Book updated & revised: Everything Interior Designers Need to Know Every Day
$15.42
The Design Thinking Playbook: Mindful Digital Transformation of Teams, Products, Services, Businesses and Ecosystems (Design Thinking Series)
$22.55
The New Design Rules: How to Decorate and Renovate, from Start to Finish: An Interior Design Book
$16.99
Live Beautiful
$24.61
David Airey’s book is filled with practical techniques for creating memorable logos, making it a must-have for any graphic designer focused on branding.
Josef Albers’ classic text on color theory is essential for any designer, providing a rich perspective on color interaction and perception.
An essential historical read that dives into the early 20th-century movement of futurism, offering designers inspiration on breaking creative boundaries.
This book compiles significant ideas that have shaped graphic design, making it an exciting gift for designers interested in the history of their field.
Why are design books important for designers?
Design books provide valuable knowledge, inspiration, and help bridge gaps in understanding design principles and practices.
What types of design books should I consider gifting?
Consider books that cover various design aspects like graphic design, user experience, color theory, and design philosophy.
Are these books suitable for beginner designers?
Yes, many of these books offer foundational knowledge that can benefit both novice and experienced designers.
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