Architecture, design and trends all feature in the hottest books to arrive on our shelves this month.
The 2009 Flux Trend Review By Dion Chang (MacMillan, R175)
Trends analyst Dion Chang has pulled together an impressive list of contributors for his new book, which provides a fascinating insight into our lives today by drawing on global trends and putting them into a South African perspective.
So whether it’s politics, decor, advertising, the media, technology, education or parenting that interests you, there’s an observation for you to read. And read you will, because this book offers intelligent commentary for informed thinkers who will enjoy its tight edit of the glut of information we receive daily.
Dion Chang is known as an innovator, creative thinker and visionary, and he has a particularly interesting insight into South African and international trends.
10 Years 100 Buildings: The Architecture of Democratic South Africa Convened and edited by Prpfessor ‘Ora Joubert (Bell-Roberts, R450)
A landmark work that highlights the development of our architecture since 1994, this compendium has been a labour of love to put together. Edited by ’Ora Joubert, Professor of Architecture at the University of Pretoria, and with works selected by a team of 32 specialists, it will no doubt increase awareness of the highly original contributions of South African architects.
Interestingly, the featured works are split up into six geographic regions, each one refl ecting the infl uence of bio-climatic factors on the architectural expression. Look out for the first copies to be released at stand C5 at the Design Indaba Expo in Cape Town.
Africanismo by Craig Fraser (Quivertree, R363)
We bet this good-looking book (it’ll either be the striking yellow that intrigues you or the tempting peep-hole in the cover) will make its way into many homes around the world. Over the years, photographer Craig Fraser has captured the changing face of southern Africa’s interiors and the inspiration behind them, and this book showcases the complete collection of unique elements and styles recorded over time.
We have no doubt that this celebration of “creativity and ingenious resourcefulness born out of a continent that is both beautiful and harsh” is only just beginning.
The Interior World of Tom dixon by Tom Dixon (Conran Octopus, R554)
The moment you pick up this cloth-bound tome, you realise that Tom Dixon’s world is different. His opening words are printed on the cover, for starters, with a modest declaration of what the book is about. “I’m not really claiming to be a proper designer,” he says, “so please don’t expect a whizzy design publication full of tips on how to get the look, or a serious tome outlining what real design is as opposed to other types”.
Like many designers, his inspiration comes from somewhat unexpected sources and it’s possible to fi nd yourself taking a step out of your comfort zone and into his, which is full of challenging, sometimes chaotic ideas. But we all know that some kind of distilled order always emerges from his creative genius and once you close the book, you feel like you’ve been on a creative journey with him.
Cool Hotels: The Best of Europe (Te Neues, R360)
Following the success of Cool Restaurants, this equally large and beautifully presented volume highlights 94 of Europe’s sexiest hotels selected for their excellent service and style. This is the illustrated bible on where to stay for sophisticated travellers looking for an extra-special experience, whether on business or a well-deserved holiday.
