Jasper Morrison: A Book of Things

Sophisticated, simple and useful projects from one of the most influential product designers working today

Known for his "Super Normal" approach to design, Jasper Morrison looks to find the exceptional in the world of the ordinary. Underpinned by his principle that "objects should not shout," Morrison’s designs are defined by beguiling simplicity, ready familiarity and a distinctive playfulness. While he made his name with the Thinking Man’s Chair in 1985, he has won devotion for a broad spectrum of projects, from cell phones to lights, tea sets and door handles as well as for his interiors, exhibitions, books and photography.
A Book of Things is a guide to Morrison’s intense examination of the world of things that accompany our lives and shape our environment. It presents the highlights in his long and varied career, showing projects from draft sketches to finished product, accompanied by his personal anecdotes on the genesis of each design. This revised and extended edition of the original 2015 publication adds his most recent designs, including a bakery in Majorca, a magazine cover and a bicycle. At the same time as it emphasizes the diversity of his practice, this edition brings to the fore Morrison’s feel for interiors. For Morrison, an object’s success rests not in isolation but in its ability to create an atmosphere in a setting. This new edition manifests his sensitivity to settings as well as his approach to objects, his process of design and his eye.
Jasper Morrison (born 1959) studied at Kingston Polytechnic and the Royal College of Art. In 1986 he opened his studio in London. He has created practical and enduring designs for companies such as Cappellini, Alessi, MUJI, Samsung, Emeco, Flos and Vitra. He has published a number of books including A World Without Words, Super Normal and Everything but the Walls. He has curated and participated in many exhibitions in the US, Asia and Europe. His work is represented in the Museum of Modern Art, the Victoria and Albert Museum and other prominent collections around the world. Morrison lives and works in London.