Thinking: Objects - Contemporary Approaches to Product Design [Paperback]

"The book is very clearly laid out and represents a thoughtful, diagrammatical approach to reading. Expertly written and well crafted, it avoids the 'heavy image' approach of other general design books." Shea Tillman, Auburn University, USA. "Very relevant for the Product Design element of the course. We have a well-equipped workshop and this book will provide a useful structure - moving from the social use of product design, throught the design cycle, to making it happen. Well illustrated, combined with well placed theoretical references." Sarah Britten Jones, Thames Valley University, UK. "Great book ... Nice layout - good pictures. All material up to date - very important." Christian Lystager, KEA, Denmark. 'This book gives a real insight into what it means to think and work as a product designer today. It reveals the breath of the subject and gives an excellent understanding and appreciation of the multi-disciplinary nature of product design ... I think this book will be essential for students to get a deeper understanding of the definition of product design.' Diane Simpson-Little, University of Sussex, UK.

Thinking Objects: Contemporary Approaches to Product Design is an innovative, wide-ranging guide to great product design. This book reveals how designers can learn to read the signals an object sends, interpret meaning, discover historical context and use those messages in their own new product designs. Globalisation, technology, the media and the need for a sustainable future are all part of contemporary product design. This comprehensive guide helps students and designers everywhere to incorporate these influences and more. Thinking Objects: Contemporary Approaches to Product Design provides an essential reference tool that will enable the reader to find their own style and succeed in the industry.

Tim Parsons is a product designer, writer and lecturer on design. He has worked with manufacturers in Britain and Europe and exhibited widely. He has contributed articles to publications including Blueprint and Phaidon's Design Classics. His London studio creates tableware, lighting, accessories, furniture, and more.