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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 10%
    by Soetsu Yanagi
    £8.99

    Long revered as the authority on craftsmanship and Japanese aesthetics, Yanagi devoted his life and writing to defend the value of craft. In an age of feeble and ugly machine-made things, The Beauty of Everyday Things is a call to deepen relationships with the objects that surround people.

  • Save 23%
    by Peter Gossel & Gloria Koenig
    £11.49

    Though they are best known to the general public for their furniture, the husband and wife duo of Charles and Ray Eames (1907-78 and 1912-88, respectively) were also forerunners in the fields of architecture, industrial design, photography, and film. This book covers various aspects of their illustrious career.

  • Save 23%
    - Graffiti Alphabets from Around the World
    by Claudia Walde
    £15.49

    A typographical sourcebook that features over 150 specially designed, original alphabets.

  • Save 18%
    - How to Create Art on an iPad (R)
     
    £17.99

    Delve into the world of digital painting on an iPad with step-by-step tutorials, hints, and tips from professional artists.

  • Save 27%
    - The White & Neutral Home
    by Chrissie Rucker
    £25.49

    The White Company, For the Love of White, is a captivating book written by Chrissie Rucker. Published by the Octopus Publishing Group in 2019, this book takes the readers on a mesmerizing journey. As a part of the genre of home and lifestyle, it offers a delightful exploration of the love for the color white in all its purity and elegance. Chrissie Rucker, the author, is renowned for her keen eye for design and aesthetics, which is brilliantly reflected in this book. The White Company is not just a book; it's an experience that transports you into a world where the color white reigns supreme. It's a must-read for anyone who appreciates the beauty of simplicity in design. Published by the Octopus Publishing Group, this book stands as a testament to the author's love for white and her exceptional ability to bring it to life through her words.

  • Save 32%
    - The Birth of Modern Luxury Updated Edition
    by Pierre Leonforte
    £74.99

  • Save 17%
    by Matthew (Registered Architect) Frederick
    £14.99

  • Save 15%
    - The Complete Works
    by Leonardo Da (Author) Vinci
    £10.99

    Provides the reader with an insight into the life and work of one of history's most intriguing figures, Leonardo Da Vinci. Almost all of his work is presented in this volume - from his paintings and frescos, to detailed reproductions of his remarkable encrypted notebooks.

  • Save 10%
    by Sophie Lark
    £8.99

    They're a match made in Hell.The Griffins and the Gallos have been battling for control of Chicago's underworld for generations. Their rivalry has always been flammable, but it reignites with a fury when Aida, the youngest and wildest Gallo sibling, crashes a party at the Griffin mansion and accidentally sets fire to the library. To stave off all-out war, her father quickly arranges a marriage between her and Callum Griffin, eldest son and heir to the Irish mafia.Cold, ambitious, and brutal, Callum is determined to tame his headstrong new bride. But Aida is more than capable of giving as good as she gets-starting with poisoning Callum on their wedding night. The problem is, murdering him would be a lot easier if he didn't look so good while she was trying to do it.She's got a lockbox around her heart. He's got something to prove.In their struggle for dominance, who will go up in flames first?

  • Save 21%
    by Mary Claire Haver
    £13.49

    **From the New York Times Bestselling author**The UK edition of the menopause health plan that is taking the US by storm and already helped 100,000 women lose stubborn weight and tame their symptoms.When Dr Mary Claire Haver hit the perimenopause, she was shocked at the severity of her symptoms. She had always lived a very healthy lifestyle, but the weight seemed to be piling on and no diet or fitness regime could shift it.Exhausted and miserable, she decided to research her own solutions and was able to transform her health with three principles which are now central to The Galveston Diet:Fuel Refocus - Alter the ratio of healthy fats, lean protein, and quality carbohydrates to efficiently burn fat.Intermittent Fasting - Eat within a flexible 8-hour eating window to draw energy from stored fat.Anti-inflammatory Food - Eat more foods like leafy greens, olive oil, berries, nuts, and tomatoes.By combining these key principles Dr Haver has created a nutritional plan that finally makes it possible to lose stubborn weight and tame everyday symptoms from brain fog to insomnia.The first menopause diet designed by a woman for women, this is a kind, honest and science-backed plan with recipes, practical tips and shopping lists so that, no matter your lifestyle, you can finally regain control of your health and feel like YOU again.Reviews from women who have tried The Galveston Diet: 'When I found The Galveston Diet, I wasn't eating unhealthy food; I was just not eating the right foods. I have now lost 42+ pounds! Thank you, Dr. Haver, for helping me find me' Janice S'I cannot believe the changes I've seen since doing The Galveston Diet. I have lost 55lbs and feel amazing. I'm sleeping better. I no longer have any back pain and have more energy now than I did in my 30's' Sandra S'In two months, I have lost 13 pounds. My husband has lost 14 pounds. We feel so much better, and our clothes fit like they haven't fit in many, many months! That stubborn "middle expansion" is finally reversing' Suzanne J'I've never been obese but just could not get off the extra belly weight after my hysterectomy at 32 years old. I'm now 62 and feel better than I've ever felt about my body' Lesia M

  • Save 25%
    by Marcos Mateu-Mestre
    £17.99

  • Save 32%
    - The Complete Guide
    by Amanda Johnston & Clive Hallett
    £64.99

    The complete reference on all fabrics, their properties and their uses in fashion."e;The topics are summarised and conceptualised with striking visuals and supporting graphics...teachers will find it easy to use this book to access key facts quickly"e; Just4Textiles"e;Anyone with an interest in fashion should read it and anyone studying or working in the sector should buy it now"e; Style With Heart"e;This title is a wealth of information on every possible fabric, from yak hair to hemp and polyamide to elastine and synthetic rubber. You name it, this book will tell you the history, properties and manufacturing processes of each, using images from the catwalk and the factory to illustrate"e; The Sewing TreeFabric for Fashion: The Complete Guide is the only book specifically for fashion designers that explains the behaviour and properties of different fabrics. Fashion design is largely determined by how fabrics work, move, feel and look. The most successful fashion designers are those who understand their materials and match design skill with technical knowledge. This book bridges the gap by providing a mix of practical information and industry vocabulary, visually examining generic fabric types, discussing their characteristics and showing how to exploit materials to push the boundaries of design.With stunning colour photographs that show how fashion designers, both past and present, have worked with fabrics, the book's prime objective is to stimulate creative exploration of the relationship of fabrics to fashion. Now in its second edition, it covers man-made as well as natural fibres, making it the complete guide to fabrics. The book also includes a useful glossary of key terms and a resource guide to sourcing fabrics. It will be indispensable for anyone who works in fashion and is the ideal companion to Fabric for Fashion: The Swatch Book, also in its second edition.

  • Save 25%
    - The definitive guide to colour in art and design
    by Laura Perryman
    £19.49

    The Colour Bible, penned by Laura Perryman, is a mesmerizing exploration of hues and shades that has taken the literary world by storm. Published in 2021 by the renowned Octopus Publishing Group, this book delves into the significance and symbolism of different colours in an engaging and insightful manner. Perryman, known for her eloquent writing style, expertly weaves facts and anecdotes, creating a narrative that is both educational and entertaining. Regardless of the genre you usually prefer, this unique book promises to captivate your interest and broaden your understanding of colours. So, if you're looking for a fresh and fascinating read, The Colour Bible by Laura Perryman is the perfect choice for you.

  • Save 20%
    by Seth Godin
    £11.99

  • Save 30%
    by Stone Island
    £38.49

    The first book on the iconic, urban-inspired streetwear brand.

  • Save 29%
    - The Complete Course
    by Karolyn Kiisel
    £35.49

  • Save 23%
    by Louisa Taylor
    £15.49

    An exploration of the artistic process, methodology and techniques of 100 great ceramic artists, offering both practical advice and inspiration.

  • Save 24%
    - Meanings, Shapes, and Motifs
    by Yori Moriarty
    £16.99

    Discover the rich meanings hidden in the enigmatic world of irezumi. A visual catalogue and journey through Japan's tattoo culture with Yori Moriarty, a disciple of Osaka Horitoshi.

  • Save 29%
    - Responsible Design for a Better World
    by Seetal Solanki
    £31.99

    This visually stunning investigation of natural and man-made materials will change the way you look at the world around you, while offering hope for the future of our planet.

  • Save 18%
    by 3dtotal Publishing
    £20.49

    Learn how to create vibrant character designs with the step-by-step guidance of professional artists from the illustration and animation industries.

  • by Ernest Norling
    £10.49

    Perspective is easy; yet, surprisingly few artists know the simple rules that make it so. Remedy that situation with this simple, step-by-step book, the first devoted entirely to the topic. 256 illustrations.

  • Save 29%
    by Ball, Farrow, Joa Studholme & et al.
    £28.49

    The second edition of Farrow & Ball: How to Decorate, now titled How to Redecorate, brings the invaluable advice from the first edition right up to date in line with current trends, including catering for the home-working age. The book reflects the seismic shift in the way we decorate our homes that has taken place over the last decade, showcasing a wide range of living spaces, featuring everything from compact city apartments to roomier country residences.Packed with stylish and easy-to-follow decorating advice, How to Redecorate answers common questions, including which white to use with which colour, how to select a neutral group and what exactly are the three different ways to decorate? Accompanied by a wealth of inspirational new images, the book also features an expanded section on colour names and inspirations, as well as guidance on how to create a beautiful working space within the home.With more than 80% new material, this new edition of the bestselling How to Decorate takes decorating to a whole new level, demystifying the process with ease and equipping you to transform your home.

  • Save 21%
    by Stacy Sims
    £14.99

    "Originally published in different form in the United States by Rodale Books, an imprint of Random House, a division of Penguin Random House LLC, in 2016"--Title page verso.

  • Save 24%
    by Piet Oudolf
    £45.49

    A major monograph on the Dutch garden designer, featuring his gardens and the largest collection of his drawings ever published Step into a Piet Oudolf garden and you are transported into a dreamlike meadowscape, filled with perennials, seasonal color, and texture. Made in close collaboration with Oudolf, this book showcases gardens throughout his career and across the globe - from New York's acclaimed High Line to the newly planted Vitra Campus in Germany. The book offers fresh insight into the work and creative practice of Oudolf, both from a horticultural and artistic perspective, showcasing high-profile and lesser-known gardens, including Chicago's Lurie Garden, Hauser & Wirth Somerset and Menorca, Venice Biennale, Singer Museum, Belle Isle in Detroit, Noma, and others. It offers unprecedented insight into his design process, working methods, and inspirations, and features original sketches and drawings - many of which are published here for the first time. This major new monograph is significant not only for its breadth and the largest collection of Oudolf's drawings ever published, but also for its inclusion of brand-new work, together with newly commissioned essays that place his work in context and offer fresh perspective on his career and significance. The book also includes gatefolds and tip-ins to explain key designs.

  • Save 10%
    by Gabrielle Zevin
    £8.99

  • Save 27%
    by Tara Bennett
    £21.99

    Take an exclusive, behind-the-scenes look at the creative process of James Cameron's Avatar: The Way of Water. Packed with hundreds of stunning images and written in collaboration with the filmmakers themselves, uncover the incredible creative and technical skill that went into the making of Avatar: The Way of Water. Featuring stunning concept art and intricate character, creature, and costume designs, uncover the details of Pandora in striking detail.Art of Avatar: The Way of Water is produced in collaboration with James Cameron's production company, Lightstorm Entertainment, and Twentieth Century Film.With a foreword by filmmaker Robert Rodriguez.(c) 2022 20th Century Studios.

  • Save 10%
    by Monica Murphy
    £8.99

    A Million Kisses In Your Lifetime is a captivating novel by Monica Murphy. Published in 2022 by Penguin Books Ltd (UK), this book takes you on an unforgettable journey. As the title suggests, the story is about love, passion, and the countless kisses one experiences in their lifetime. Monica Murphy, renowned for her ability to weave intricate tales of love and passion, does not disappoint in this latest offering. This book is a must-read for anyone who loves a good love story. The genre of the book is romance, which is evident in the intense love scenes and heartwarming moments that fill the pages. Published in 2022, the book is fresh and relevant, dealing with themes that resonate with today's audience. The publisher, Penguin Books Ltd (UK), is known for their high-quality publications, and this book is no exception. It is well-written, engaging, and sure to leave you wanting more. So, if you're looking for a new book to dive into, A Million Kisses In Your Lifetime is the one for you.

  • Save 25%
    by Michael Darling
    £50.99

    "The essential volume on the great fashion designer, entrepreneur and Louis Vuitton artistic director..."--Provided by publisher.

  • Save 15%
    - The Hilarious Sequel to the #1 Bestseller
    by Nathan W. Pyle
    £10.99

    The sequel to the #1 New York Times bestselling (November 2019) phenomenon Strange Planet, featuring more hilarious and poignant adventures from the fascinating inhabitants of Nathan W. Pyle's colourful world.

  • Save 27%
    - A workshop for artists and designers
    by David Hornung
    £21.99

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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