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Architecture & Design

Are you looking to be inspired by some of the finest designers and architects? You find a wide selection of fascinating architecture and design books at Tales. The design books can inspire you to renew your style or house, but you can also use them in your creative process both as a student or professional. If you are more into buildings and the process behind them, take a look at our architecture books that will take you around the world to the most wonderful and groundbreaking buildings on Earth. All of them will look good on your coffee table.
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  • Save 29%
    by Jeffrey Deitch
    £29.99

    The fantastic book is now available again in new smaller format edition with a lower price

  • Save 24%
    - Or; Disease and the Art of Medical Illustration
    by Richard Barnett
    £18.99

    Presents a visual tour through disease in an age before colour photography. This volume combines detailed illustrations of afflicted patients from some of the worlds rarest medical books, that forms a profoundly human reminder of mankinds struggle with disease. It features historic maps, pioneering charts and contemporary case notes.

  • Save 23%
    by Geoffrey Marsh & Victoria Broackes
    £30.99

    This is the first book produced with access to the David Bowie archive of performance costume, ephemera and original artwork by the artist, which is brought together to present a completely new perspective on his creative work and collaborations.

  • Save 27%
    by Marc Stickdorn
    £21.99

    This is Service Design Thinking introduces an inter-disciplinary approach to designing services. 23 international authors and even more online contributors from the global service design community invested their knowledge, experience and passion together to create this book.

  • Save 23%
    - Painting with Freedom, Expression and Style
    by Jean Haines
    £15.49

    Jean Haines' enthusiasm for watercolours burst through every page of this inspirational book that will guide you, step by step, to creating beautiful and unique paintings of your own, whatever your ability.

  • Save 21%
    by J O'Barr
    £14.99

    After the murder of his fiancee by a vicious street gang, a man rises from the grave to wreak bloody vengeance upon those who wronged him.

  • Save 23%
     
    £38.49

    This definitive publication on Alexander McQueen (1969 - 2010) invites you into the creative mind and world of one of Britain's most brilliant, daring and provocative designers, and the many themes and references that shaped his visionary fashion collections.

  • Save 31%
    by Maison Martin Margiela
    £54.99

    Graduating from Antwerp's Royal Academy of Fine Arts in the 1980s, Martin Margiela (and his contemporaries in the Antwerp Six) transformed global fashion with his aggressive restatement of traditional fashion design and a polemical approach to luxury trends. Working first with the house of Gaultier, Margiela absorbed the radical design of Japanese deconstruction, making it wholly his own with the founding of his own label in 1988. Margiela propounds a singular, enigmatic look, moving beyond the recognizable tropes of deconstruction—a monochromatic palette, outsized garments, non-traditional fabrics, exposed seams, or roughly appliquéd details—to develop a fully considered worldview, one with elegance, mystery, and menace in equal measure. This book provides an inside look at the design process from a craftsman who creates pieces prized for their originality, delicacy, and daring. In the spirit of Margiela's garments, the book is a work of art in itself, designed exclusively by Margiela and complete with silver inks, ribbon markers, a variety of lush paper types, twelve booklets, and an embroidered white-linen cover. This book provides a window onto the intimate, handmade world of a unique designer.

  • Save 24%
    - Masterworks
    by Rosalind Ormiston
    £18.99

    Though very much an individual and spiritual artist, Alfonse Mucha was a defining figure of the Art Nouveau era and is loved for his distinctive lush style and images of beautiful women in arabesque poses among the plethora of paintings, posters, advertisements and designs he produced. This title presents a range of his work.

  • Save 27%
    - A Structured Approach for Driving Innovation in Your Organization
    by Vijay (Illinois Institute of Technology) Kumar
    £21.99

    A guide for successful innovation planning. It is suitable for strategists, managers, designers, and researchers who undertake the challenge of innovation, despite a lack of established procedures and a high risk of failure.

  • Save 30%
    by Alice Rawsthorn
    £39.99

    An unprecedented level of craft is the key signature of Uniacke’s design ethos, on display in this much-anticipated monograph of notable homes she has created.In-demand London-based interiors and furniture designer Rose Uniacke beautifully showcases a number of homes she has designed, boasting clean lines and calm, light-filled spaces, and showrooms defined by an effortless blend of traditional details within contemporary spaces. Whether the project is an urban townhouse, a seaside retreat, or a London villa, the approach of Uniacke is always the same—a collaboration with clients to make understated, refined sanctuaries that offer the perfect settings for everyday life. The book is sumptuously illustrated with two hundred color photographs that truly capture the serenity and timelessness of Uniacke’s hand-hewn cultivated style.The pages of this book exude the same warmth of a Uniacke interior, heightened by the author’s own words as she describes in detail the specifics of each of the eleven projects explored. The result is akin to an informal conversation, with Uniacke revisiting her journey to share instincts and inspirations. An index of Rose Uniacke Editions, the designer’s furniture, lighting, and textiles, completes this elegant volume.i

  • Save 27%
    by Bunny Guinness & HRH The Prince of Wales
    £25.49

  • Save 10%
    by Lucy Score
    £8.99

    Things We Left Behind is a captivating novel by the renowned author, Lucy Score. Published in 2023 by Hodder And Stoughton Ltd., this book is a remarkable addition to the literary world. This book falls under a genre that Lucy Score has beautifully mastered, leaving readers on the edge of their seats, eagerly flipping pages. Things We Left Behind is not just a book, it's a journey that takes you through a whirlwind of emotions, compelling you to delve deeper with every chapter. Lucy Score's unique storytelling ability is on full display, making this 2023 publication a must-read. This book is a testament to Lucy Score's literary prowess and Hodder And Stoughton Ltd.'s commitment to publishing quality content. If you are a fan of engaging narratives and compelling storytelling, Things We Left Behind is definitely a book you should consider adding to your collection.

  • Save 23%
    by Gabriel Kline
    £16.99

    Get inspired and get glazing! Amazing Glaze Recipes and Combinations provides a captivating collection of sure-fire glaze recipes and electrifying combinations for low-fire, mid-range, and high-fire potters. Hundreds of photos and technically-edited recipes ensure youll get the best possible results. Whether youre searching for excitement at cone 6 or looking for the perfect high-fire shino recipe, youve come to the right place. Join Gabriel Kline, author of Amazing Glaze and founder of Odyssey Clayworks, for page after color-filled page of glazes. Start by learning the keys to success when applying glazes, then choose the temperature range you want to explore first. Gabriels collection of well-tested recipes draw on his decades of experience as an instructor and leader of a communal arts studioincluding current and past student favorites as well as a few timeless gems. Of course he doesnt stop there! In addition to plentiful tiles showing offtwo-glaze combinations, Gabriel shares multi-glaze combinations developed through years of trial and error. From waterfall blues to eye-popping bursts of red, theres a rainbow of options. Just as in Amazing Glaze, the recipes have all been technically edited and each one has a photo. By controlling specific gravity and application, the goal is always getting the perfect coat of glaze recipe after recipe. Special topics likemajolica and raku firingprovide welcome detours, and a variety of artist features serve as launching points for new explorations. Stunning galleries from todays top artists provide even more glazing ideas.

  • Save 20%
    by Lauren Cochrane
    £11.99

    With this beautiful guide to his style trajectory, key looks and signature pieces, dive into the kooky, eccentric and utterly unique world of Harry Styles's style.

  • Save 11%
    by Laura Nowlin
    £7.99

    "Finn has always loved Autumn. She is a constant in his life, except it's in the role of friend, not girlfriend. Finn wants her to see him as more, wants to prove HE should be the man by her side--even if that means heartache for the people they are each dating. It would be worth the pain to be with right person. Finn knows he and Autumn are fated to be together. But sometimes fate can be cruel to those in love"--Provided by publisher.

  • Save 24%
    by Kaffe Fassett
    £18.99

  • Save 14%
    by Rachel Gillig
    £9.49

  • Save 20%
    by Chris Mitchell
    £25.49

  • Save 10%
    by Hernan Diaz
    £8.99

    From Hernn Diaz, Pulitzer finalist and author of &i>In the Distance&/i>, &i>Trust&/i> is a novel of extraordinary ambition and scope, told in four parts that slowly reveal the real woman behind the stories written about her by others. For fans of Kate Atkinson and Donna Tartt, &i>Trust &/i>is an American classic in the making.

  • Save 23%
    by Daniel Wildenstein
    £15.49 - 35.49

    Claude Monet's Impressionist technique still inspires to this day. Whether it's his stunning Water Lilies series, or genre-defining Impression, Sunrise, discover what made Monet the master of French 19th-century art in this exuberant exploration of his life and work.

  • Save 29%
    by Square Enix
    £33.99

    Encyclopaedia Eorzea -the World Of Final Fantasy Xiv- is a captivating masterpiece by the renowned author, Square Enix. Published in 2022, this book falls under the genre of fantasy, and it takes the reader on an exciting journey through the world of Final Fantasy XIV. The author, who is also the publisher, Square Enix, has meticulously crafted a narrative that is both engrossing and insightful. The book provides a comprehensive overview of the game's lore, making it an essential read for fans and newcomers alike. Published by Square Enix, this book is a testament to their commitment to providing high-quality content for their audience. Encyclopaedia Eorzea -the World Of Final Fantasy Xiv- is more than just a book; it's an immersive experience that transports you to a world of adventure and fantasy.

  • Save 29%
    - A Historical Review of Four Fashion Icons
    by Emma Baxter-Wright
    £35.49

    The second boxed set of the stories of four more iconic fashion houses, including images of their designs and text on the personalities behind the brands.

  • Save 27%
    - Remembering in Paint
    by Kate Reeve-Edwards
    £25.49

    David Mankin is a contemporary painter of abstract landscapes based in Cornwall. A series of sell-out shows and an international following has generated widespread interest in how Mankin creates his evocative paintings. This book explores his creative process in detail providing the reader access to the sources and influences that inform his work.

  • - 2,700 Stickers for Every Mood
    by Pipsticks®+Workman®
    £9.99

  • Save 28%
    by Square Enix
    £27.49

    Experience the rich world of Final Fantasy XIV: Stormblood once more via this exhaustive collection of concept art and illustrations, including character designs, field areas, dungeons, monsters, equipment, and more. The Art of the Revolution -Western Memories- also features commentary from the art team on how costumes are created. Book one of a two-book set with The Art of the Revolution -Eastern Memories-. Includes an exclusive bonus item code for an in-game Wind-up Yotsuyu minion!

  • Save 20%
    - A Complete Course in Drawing Manga Cuties
    by Yoai
    £11.99

    Anime Art Class, penned by the talented Yoai, is a must-have for all art enthusiasts and anime lovers. Published in 2021 by Rock Point, this book is a treasure trove of knowledge and inspiration. Yoai, a renowned artist in the anime world, shares her techniques and tips in this comprehensive guide. The book dives deep into the genre of anime, a popular form of Japanese animation that has taken the world by storm. Whether you are a beginner or a seasoned artist, this book offers valuable insights into the vibrant and dynamic world of anime art. Grab your copy today and embark on an exciting journey of art and creativity with Yoai's Anime Art Class.

  • Save 15%
    by Albert Algoud
    £10.99

    A sparklingly funny celebration of Herge's most beloved character via his legendary exclamations!

  • Save 24%
    - Haarkon's world tour of amazing botanical spaces
    by Magnus Edmondson & India Hobson
    £17.49

    Greenhouses have universal appeal, fusing together cultures and countries under one glass roof. In their new book, photographers India Hobson and Magnus Edmondson take you on a worldwide journey through their favourite botanical spaces.

  • Save 23%
    - Techniques, Tips, and Tricks for Slabs, Coils, and More
    by Sunshine Cobb
    £16.99

Architecture

Our selection of cultural books also include architecture books. If you are fascinated by beautiful or memorable buildings we have the books for you. 

Architecture is the art form everyone is in contact with everyday. We move across a wide variety of buildings everytime we go out the door. Schools, work spaces, museums and even your own home is a form of architecture. Some buildings however have that extra effect on you. They make you shop and wonder, and most importantly they are products of their time. They are part of our history and tell the story of the time they were made. Some architects also go beyond that creating something never seen before and these are the buildings that we remember and they might even become attractions or landmarks like the beloved Eiffeltower in the city of lights.   

You could also get inspired as an architect or architectural student yourself. The architecture books invite you into the process of making a building out of the ordinary. If you are interested in sustainability you could also find architecture books about that. In the last couple of years we have also seen an increase in sustainable architecture, where materials are reused or alternative and good for our planet. They are the buildings of the future. 

We also have a collection of garden architecture books. In recent years open air spaces have been desired especially in the big cities, where fewer and fewer have access to a garden or park. Therefore we need innovative ways of finding new green areas in the cities also in order to be sustainable. For that matter we need to plant more trees and have nature surrounding us both for our planet, but also for the wellbeing of ourselves. Find ideas for new kinds of creating just that in our selection of architecture books. 



Fashion and design

Everyone wants to be stylish, and in our selection of design and fashion books you can get inspired by some of the best style icons and designers in the world. You can get that extra tip that will help you become the most stylish person in the room or one of the new style icons of Instagram.  Whether it’s about interior or clothes you will find it all among our fashion books and design books.

Fashion is a way of showing who you are. The way you dress reflects your personality and it is a way of showing how you feel or wants to feel that day, although it can be difficult to mix your outfit in the right way, and that is where the fashion books can help. Another wonderful thing about the fashion and design books is that they look stylish in themselves, and they will look gorgeous as a coffee table book. They add that extra level of style to your furnishing, and you display all your knowledge about fashion. So that is why you find the most beautiful and cool fashion books for decor at Tales. 

In our selection you find the popular fashion book In Paris by the French Instagram it-girl Jeanne Damas and Lauren Bastide. In the book they try to cover the secrets of the parisienne; who she is, what she wears and where she is heading. The fashion book contains interviews with 20 of the most inspiring French women from the city of light, and concludes that being a parisienne is not just about how you look and dress, but a way of life. 

If you yourself dream of having a designer carriere, you could also find fashion books for designing in Tales’ selection of culture books. Get the perfect guide to sewing, draping, and picking patterns for your next stylish creation. 

If you need inspiration to renew your furnishing you could - in addition to selecting a stylish book among our fashion books for coffee tables - also find design books about that. They help you pick the most tasteful furniture on the market and most importantly how to style them, and you could end up with the most wonderful interior in your own house. 


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