Less Is More (Difficult)

Book excerpt: A celebration of twenty years of design, philosophy, and inspiration from the renowned American furniture brand Blu Dot. Blu Dot is an American pioneer of democratic design, and winner of the 2018 National Design Award for Product Design from the Cooper Hewitt, Smithsonian Design Museum. Founded and run by its principal designers, the company is celebrated for its minimal and innovative design, and its mission to make modern design accessible to a wider audience. Published to coincide with the brand's twentieth anniversary, this carefully produced book collects two decades' worth of ideas, inspiration, designs, and products that chronicle the evolution of one of the most iconic names in contemporary American design. Illustrated with stunning photography of Blu Dot's best-known pieces, the book includes everything the brand has ever produced, from the very earliest designs like the Chicago 8 box shelving system to the ubiquitous and iconic Real Good Chair. Supplemented by sketches, notes, and other inspirational materials drawn from the archives of Blu Dot's founders -- John Christakos, Maurice Blanks, and Charlie Lazor -- this book also includes revealing interviews and written contributions from leading names in contemporary design, including an essay by design curator Andrew Blauvelt. The book is a celebration not just of the pioneering work of one American company, but of good design.