Starck's Kids

Rating:
Summary: a new Branzi
Review: The book is divided into 2 sections - the first is an analysis of design in the 90's and the 2nd (last) consists of commentary from the designers on various subjects.

The first section reminded me of the writings of Andrea Branzi in the way that the authors tried to pin down the overarching themes and drivers of 90's (French) design. Work was used largely to dramatize the authors point, rather than as a showcase. The only criticism I would have is that if you weren't familiar with the specific works, there were no visual aids to bring you along.

The second section seemed like a series of interviews repackaged into book format. Sometimes the reponses of the designers conflicted with the analysis in the first section, as well as with eachother. If you're looking for personal anecdotes this is interesting, but did little to shed light on the motivations of the individual designers' works, and less as a collective.

Nonetheless, the first section was golden - well thought out and documented. It did an excellent job of concretizing the abstract essence of the period.

Rating:
Summary: An interesting read
Review: Unfortunately the first half of the book on the subject "design in the 90's" really needs to be read by someone familiar with complicated design terms and theories. I found it too draining....a bit much. The second half however was great and includes interviews with some French designers (listed in title) that have collaborated with Philippe Starck. I found what they had to say extremely interesting and current. It gives a great insight into the design discipline and more importantly the designers themselves.