Design of the 20th Century

Poised at the start of the 21st century, we can see clearly that the previous century was marked by momentous changes in the field of design. Aesthetics entered into everyday life with often staggering results. Our homes and workplaces turned into veritable galleries of style and innovation.

From furniture to graphics, it’s all here―the work of artists who have shaped and re-created the modern world with a dizzying variety of materials. From the organic to the geometric, from Art Deco, through to Pop and High-Tech, this book contains all the great names―Harry Bertoia, De Stijl, Dieter Rams, Philippe Starck, Charles and Ray Eames, to name only a very few.

This essential book is a comprehensive journey through the shapes and colors, forms and functions of design history in the 20th century. An A-Z of designers and design schools, which builds into a complete picture of contemporary living. Lavishly illustrated, this is design in the fullest sense.

About the series

Bibliotheca Universalis ― Compact cultural companions celebrating the eclectic TASCHEN universe!

Editorial Reviews

Review
„An important and accessible reference.“ ― The New York Times

„…destined for the reference libraries of designers and architects but also a swell entertainment for the layperson.“ ― The Wall Street Journal

About the Author
Charlotte & Peter Fiell are well-known design authors having written over sixty books on the subject. Among their various areas of specialization is the realm of transportation design in all its diverse forms. The Fiells have lectured widely, guest taught courses, curated exhibitions, and consulted manufacturing companies, museums, salerooms, and major private collectors around the world. Together, they have written numerous TASCHEN books, including 1000 Chairs, Design of the 20th Century, Industrial Design A-Z, 1000 Lights, and Scandinavian Design. They also edited TASCHEN’s Decorative Art series and the 12-volume domus 1928-1999 and have most recently authored the double-volume Ultimate Collector Cars.