Frank Chimero’s Shape of Design

As the temperature climbs, our morning Katy Trail walks have become increasingly early.

The earlier mornings mean that I now have time to read and breakfast on the balcony before starting my work day. (Rather than starting emails before I have even showered.)

This morning’s book is The Shape of Design by Frank Chimero. 

The Shape of Design by Frank Chimero.

It’s a lovely treatise on the craft and purpose of design.

Here’s an example Chapter 1:

“Creative people commonly lament about being “blocked,” perpetually stuck and unable to produce work when necessary. Blocks spring from the imbalanced relationship of How and Why: either we have an idea, but lack the skills to execute; or we have skills, but lack a message, idea, or purpose for the work.”

Chapters from the Shape of Design by Frank Chimero.

The concepts explored in the book can be applied across a variety of creative and business pursuits, and I wouldn’t be surprised if HBR eventually picks this up.

The book is available online here.