Books by Gestalten

Wanderlust Alps, Hiking Across The Alps

Serenity, splendor, and adventure: discover the heart of the Alps, the cradle of mountaineering, and a hiker's paradise.

The Alps stretch across eight countries, from France to Slovenia, forming Europe's most impressive mountain range. The coffee table book Wanderlust Alps explores the most beautiful hiking routes in this region and guides you every step of your journey. This inspiring photo book is perfect for adventurers who want to brave the elements and experience the beauty of nature.

With detailed maps, practical tips, and breathtaking photography, Wanderlust Alps shows why the rugged peaks and green valleys of the Alps are a playground for nature lovers, regardless of the season. This book offers inspiration for hikers of all experience levels and includes over 50 epic hikes.

About the author:
Alex Roddie is an experienced backpacker, mountaineer, and photographer with over 15 years of outdoor experience. From his home in Scotland, he writes and edits for various outdoor publications. His previous book, Wanderlust Europe, was released in 2020 by Gestalten.

Also discover other legendary hiking routes worldwide with the books Wanderlust, Wanderlust USA and Wanderlust Europe.

Work Better. Live Smarter. Be Happier – Start a Business and Build a Life You Love

How to start and run a successful and meaningful business with like-minded people. Create a life you love.

The way we view work is changing rapidly. The traditional 9-to-5 model no longer suits everyone. Across the world, people are leaving the corporate world and choosing a life where personal fulfillment is central. The coffee table book Work Better. Live Smarter. Be Happier takes you through the stories of 25 inspiring entrepreneurs who have found their own path.

This photo book offers practical tips, insights, and inspiration for anyone who wants to start their own business, big or small. It emphasizes the importance of human-centered skills for modern entrepreneurs. Through success stories from various industries, such as healthy food, streetwear, and sustainable jewelry, this book shows how you can realize your dreams.

About Courier Media:
Since 2013, London-based Courier Media has been telling inspiring stories about modern enterprises. Through print, podcasts, and events, Courier helps a new generation of entrepreneurs reshape their work and lifestyle.

An ideal handbook for anyone who wants to forge their own path and build a meaningful career.

Living In – Modern Masterpieces of Residential Architecture

A unique look inside the world’s most exceptional homes, selected by leading design platform Openhouse.

Over the past six years, Openhouse has taken readers into some of the most extraordinary homes worldwide. In their first book, the editors now open the doors to exclusive favorites, featuring unique photography of rarely seen houses.

From Brutalism to 20th-century masterpieces designed by icons such as Walter Gropius and Ludwig Mies van der Rohe, this book offers an inspiring journey through various architectural styles. Admire Georgia O'Keeffe's adobe home in New Mexico, discover Luis Barragán's modernist Casa Pedregal in Mexico City, and experience the sensory architecture of George Nakashima's home, studio, and workshop in New Hope, Pennsylvania.

Living In tells the stories of the architects and inhabitants, and what it feels like to live in these special spaces. The owners are presented not only as residents but also as guardians of architectural heritage.

About Openhouse:
Openhouse is a biannual magazine that explores art, design, architecture, and culture. It takes you to beautiful homes around the world and introduces you to the people who live in them. Openhouse shares the philosophy of creative minds, based on values such as tradition, nature, art, and identity.

An inspiring book for architecture and design enthusiasts, demonstrating how exceptional living spaces can enrich daily life.

Sailing the Seas – A Voyager's Guide to Oceanic Getaways 

Discover the magic of sailing: from short trips with friends to epic solo ocean expeditions.

For centuries, sailing has symbolized ultimate freedom. There's no greater adventure than feeling the wind in your sails, the salty water on your skin, and discovering new islands, coastlines, and cultures. The coffee table book Sailing the Seas takes you on a world tour by water, from the American East Coast to the Caribbean islands, along classic routes in the Mediterranean, and exotic destinations such as Thailand and French Polynesia.

This photo book presents a fresh, modern perspective on sailing and introduces you to the beauty, sounds, tastes, and unique experiences that life on board offers.

With stunning photos of breathtaking locations, detailed itineraries, and practical "Captain's Notes" full of tips and insights, Sailing the Seas inspires both novice sailors and seasoned adventurers to brave the waves.

About Sailing Collective:
Sailing Collective is a dynamic team of captains, culinary artists, and explorers who sail the world together. With their passion for adventure, they organize unique sailing experiences to the most exotic destinations.

Preface and texts by Dayyan Armstrong and Ross Beane.

A must-have coffee table book for anyone who dreams of life at sea and unforgettable nautical experiences.

The New Mediterranean – Homes and Interiors Under the Southern Sun

Discover how to bring the warm, sun-drenched simplicity of Mediterranean style into your interior.

A new, accessible form of modernism is gaining ground, from California to Morocco, Portugal to Mexico. The coffee table book The New Mediterranean shows how traditional crafts and folklore from the Mediterranean region are combined with a contemporary aesthetic. The result is an interior that embraces warmth, light, and natural materials.

This inspiring photo book showcases beautiful homes and vacation houses from all over the world that reflect the Mediterranean lifestyle. Think earthy tones, colorful fabrics, handmade ceramics, rattan furniture, and Berber carpets, combined with whitewashed walls, concrete, bricks, terracotta tiles, and glass details.

The New Mediterranean takes you into the creative world of leading designers and architects and offers a glimpse into the traditional craftsmanship that forms the core of this style. Whether you want a completely new interior or are looking for small accents, this book inspires you to bring the sun into your home.

A perfect choice for lovers of interior design, warm colors, and timeless Mediterranean elegance.

Scandinavia Dreaming – Nordic Homes, Interiors and Design

Discover the evolution of Scandinavian design: a perfect balance of elegance, functionality, and tradition.

The story of Scandinavian design is one of contrasts. On the one hand, it exudes openness, light, and accessibility, while on the other, it possesses an understated, refined, and timeless allure. The coffee table book Scandinavia Dreaming takes you into this world of subtle craftsmanship, where natural elements such as clay, wood, and glass are harmoniously combined with large windows that welcome the winter light. This photo book allows you to discover the rich versatility and intensity of modern Scandinavian interiors, architecture, and design.

From young artisans who breathe new life into traditional materials such as ceramics and textiles, to design brands like Hay, Ferm Living, and Frama that combine classic Scandinavian aesthetics with contemporary energy and warmth. Scandinavia Dreaming highlights the influential names and brands that have put Scandinavian design on the map and shows how design can be both livable and logical.

Be inspired by the Finnish textile art of Klaus Haapaniemi and Kustaa Saksi, where the line between art and interior decoration blurs. Discover the elegant furniture pieces by Copenhagen’s Gubi, which give forgotten designs a new lease on life, or the nature-inspired sculptures by Kneip from Oslo, which perfectly illustrate the harmony between Scandinavian architecture and its environment.

The projects in this book offer ideas and inspiration that you can immediately apply in your own home. Through stories of residents and creative makers, you get an intimate look at a design style known for its effortless combination of classic simplicity and warm, natural materials.

A must-have coffee table book for lovers of Scandinavian design and anyone looking to transform their interior with the unique charm of Scandinavian style.

Circular Materials – Innovation and Reuse in Design and Architecture

Shaping tomorrow's world with creative reuse in interiors and architecture.

With growing environmental concerns, reducing material consumption is becoming increasingly important for a sustainable future. The coffee table book Circular Materials demonstrates how reused, recycled, and upcycled materials are employed innovatively in architecture, design, and fashion. This photo book offers practical solutions to lessen environmental impact and inspires a new way of thinking.

Featuring no less than 50 projects, Circular Materials showcases creative strategies to give waste a second life and replace traditional materials with sustainable alternatives. Each chapter delves into the origin of materials and includes a fascinating case study on circular design.

With impressive visuals and inspiring insights, this book provides a deep dive into how design and architecture can embrace circular innovations. It encourages designers, architects, and creatives to re-evaluate material use, balancing aesthetics with environmental consciousness.

What to expect:

• Projects where materials such as plastic waste, metal scraps, leftover fabrics, factory waste, and production surpluses are repurposed.
• Reflections on the future of sustainable design practices and the potential of recycled materials.
• Insights from designers, architects, and experts on the challenges and benefits of reused materials.

Joe Gibbs, a British architect with experience in Barcelona, Rotterdam, and London, shares his expertise in this book. His work includes research for The Centre for Architecture and Built Environment Research (CABER) and projects with a strong focus on social and environmentally conscious architecture.

Circular Materials is a source of inspiration for anyone passionate about sustainable innovation and redefining the possibilities of design and architecture.

American Icons Vol. 2 – The Architecture of the United States: Elegance and Progress

Discover the icons and innovators shaping America's architectural heritage.

American architecture has been a symbol of progress and identity for centuries. While modern design trends continue to transform the United States skyline, the coffee table book American Icons Vol. 2 offers an in-depth look at the evolution of American architecture. This impressive photo book presents 50 iconic projects and includes four essays focusing on the International Style and mid-20th-century modernism.

With breathtaking photographs and detailed analyses, the book shows how American modernism, influenced by the Bauhaus movement, emphasizes simplicity, transparency, and timeless elegance. American Icons Vol. 2 is an indispensable resource for architecture enthusiasts and a tribute to the impressive achievements of American architecture, offering inspiration for the future.

What to expect:

• Projects showcasing the diversity of American architecture, each with unique design and construction details.
• Reflections on the development of architectural practices in the US, from traditional to contemporary styles, and a look at potential future trends.
• A visually immersive journey through American architectural history, brought to life with stunning photography and engaging stories.

Sam Lubell, author of 12 books on architecture, has written for The New York Times, The Los Angeles Times, Architectural Digest, and Dwell, among others. For gestalten, he co-edited the first volume of American Icons, published in 2024.

American Icons Vol. 2 offers an inspiring look at the unique balance between elegance and innovation in American architecture. Perfect for anyone fascinated by design and urban development.

Disney Hotel New York – The Art of Marvel

Experience the magic of Marvel in an entirely new way with this special coffee table book, revealing the intriguing details of the themed rooms at Disney Hotel New York.

Disney Hotel New York at Disneyland Paris houses one of the largest collections of Marvel art in the world, making it a dream destination for every fan of the Marvel Universe. From walls adorned with posters, comic covers, and artworks, to rooms decorated with recognizable colors and objects from Marvel Studios films – here you'll feel like a true superhero.

This photo book offers an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at the hotel, where beds are inspired by Thor's city of Asgard and furniture references Spider-Man's iconic costume. Additionally, you'll discover the stories behind the artworks that adorn the rooms and hallways.

What to expect:

• An exclusive look into the interiors of Disney Hotel New York, featuring one of the largest Marvel art collections in the world.
• More than 350 artworks from 110 different artists.
• 50 original pieces, specially designed for the hotel, featuring all your favorite Marvel heroes.

Marvel is one of the world's leading entertainment companies, with an impressive archive of over 8,000 characters that have appeared in various media over the past 75 years.

Be inspired by the stunning combination of design and superhero magic with this unique book – a must-have for Marvel fans and design enthusiasts!

Courtside Candy - The Culture and Influence of Basketball

Discover how basketball redefines creativity and influences art, fashion, and design within contemporary subcultures.

From its early days on urban courts and playgrounds to a global phenomenon, basketball is much more than a sport. The rhythm of the ball, the elegance of a perfect shot, and the camaraderie on the court have transformed our view of creativity in the modern world.

The coffee table book Courtside Candy explores the fascinating intersection between basketball and creativity. It shows how the sport inspires street art, fashion, urban design, and graphic innovation. Through iconic basketball courts, players, and artists, the book reveals how basketball influences and transforms the culture in which it thrives.

This visually stunning edition combines dynamic images with in-depth stories, offering a fresh perspective on basketball's role as a creative engine. Photo book Courtside Candy challenges readers to think beyond the court and highlights basketball's influence on contemporary art, design, and urban life.

What to expect:

• In-depth exploration of basketball's influence on art, fashion, and urban culture
• Impressive visuals that capture the essence of basketball in creative subcultures
• Inspiring stories about how basketball influences contemporary cultural expression
• Focus on urban identity and how basketball shapes the character of specific locations
• A unique look at the cultural significance of basketball beyond the playing field

For basketball and culture enthusiasts: Courtside Candy is a must-have book that presents basketball in a whole new light.

The Book of Temples – Spiritual Places Around the World

Journey to sacred places that touch the soul, from ancient temples to Gothic masterpieces, and discover how these spiritual spaces have shaped our world.

Since the dawn of civilization, people have created temples and sacred places to connect with the divine. Across continents and centuries, these sites symbolize faith, unity, and creativity. They offer a unique glimpse into humanity's spiritual essence.

The coffee table book The Book of Temples takes you on a visually stunning journey through 30 centuries of spirituality spread across five continents. From Ethiopian synagogues and French cathedrals to Mayan temples and Japanese shrines – this book offers a rich collection of diverse sacred places. It is a tribute to the diversity of faith and devotion worldwide.

With breathtaking photography and inspiring essays, The Book of Temples immerses you in the architectural and spiritual wonders of the world. This photo book invites you to explore these sacred places and reflect on their lasting impact on our spirituality.

What can you expect?

• Visual spectacle: Beautiful photography and detailed illustrations of sacred places
• A global and inclusive perspective: Religions and spiritual movements from all over the world are covered
• Informative essays: Enriching context and deeper insights into the meaning of each location
• Focus on spirituality: An invitation to reflection, irrespective of religious beliefs

About Marianne Julia Strauss:
Marianne Julia Strauss is an award-winning journalist, known for her captivating stories about global destinations. Her work highlights the beauty of travel and explores the rich history and traditions of different cultures. Previously, she collaborated with Gestalten on books such as Do You Read Me?, Think Big—Shop Small, and Temples of Books.

Discover the power and splendor of spiritual places with The Book of Temples. A perfect coffee table book for lovers of architecture, travel, and spirituality.

Life on the Road – Around the World on Four Wheels

Discover the wonders of our planet on an epic road trip, across continents, cultures, and climates.

The open road has been a symbol of freedom and adventure for centuries. It's the ultimate way to discover new landscapes, cultures, and unforgettable experiences. For anyone who dreams of adventure, the journey itself often brings as much satisfaction as the destination.

The coffee table book Life on the Road takes you on a multi-year road trip in a converted truck, to some of the most breathtaking locations in the world. The journey passes through Europe, the Middle East, Central Asia, Indonesia, Australia, and North America. The book not only captures the beauty of these places but also tells inspiring stories of adventure and discovery.

With a visually powerful narrative and stunning photography, this photo book offers a unique insight into impressive destinations and the winding roads that connect them. Perfect for adventurous travelers and dreamers who want to embrace the magic of the open road.

What can you expect?

• Stunning photography: Discover breathtaking landscapes and remote routes, captured in magnificent images.
• Inspiring stories: Read the compelling experiences of the journey.
• Special destinations: Breakout pages with highlights along the route.

About the authors:

• Leander Nardin, born in Austria, transitioned from extreme sports like wingsuit flying to calmer adventures such as ski tours and freediving. As a photographer, he uses his work to capture joy and raise awareness for environmental issues.
• Maria Zehentner, also from Austria, traveled the world for a decade after studying tourism. Her meeting with Leander inspired her to combine sports, nature, and writing during their shared adventures.

Life on the Road is a perfect coffee table book for anyone who dreams of the freedom of travel and the splendor of nature.

Rice and Shine – Recipes and Delicacies for Every Occasion

Discover the versatility of rice and be amazed by the endless taste possibilities.

Rice is much more than a side dish. It often takes center stage in dishes and offers a range of culinary experiences, depending on the type of rice used. Whether sticky, creamy, fluffy, crispy, nutty, fragrant, or tender, rice has a unique ability to fully absorb the flavors of herbs and broths. No wonder every culture has its own unique way of transforming rice into a regional or national dish.

Rice, Rice, Baby! takes you on a culinary world tour and presents about 100 accessible recipes, from risottos to paellas and from bowls to rice dishes suitable for every occasion. Discover rice varieties such as basmati, jasmine, brown rice, round-grain shari, black rice, arborio, red rice, carnaroli, japonica, and bomba.

In addition to recipes, this book offers fascinating insights into the harvest, different rice varieties, and the rich history of this beloved grain in kitchens around the world. Let yourself be inspired and make rice the shining centerpiece of your meal!

What can you expect?

• About 100 recipes: From risottos and paellas to bowls and more.
• Unique insights: Learn more about the cultivation, varieties, and cultural history of rice.
• For every skill level: Suitable for home cooks of all experience levels.

About the author:
Tove Nilsson Jakobson is a renowned Swedish cookbook author and food stylist. In addition to her work as an author, she has been a television chef on Swedish television for 15 years, active in radio programs, and co-host of the popular podcast Jordkommissionen together with Lotta Lundgren. Her work as a food stylist has been published in Elle Decoration and Vogue Living, among others.

With Rice, Rice, Baby! you put rice in the spotlight and discover new culinary delights for your own kitchen.

Abraham’s Kitchen – Israeli and Palestinian Food Culture and Recipes

A visually stunning collection of recipes inspired by local markets, Arab traditions, nomadic tribes, and Tel Aviv's trendy food scene.

For centuries, Israel and Palestine have been a crossroads of cultures and culinary traditions. The region's cuisine is steeped in history and diversity, and the coffee table book Abraham’s Kitchen takes you on a culinary journey of discovery. From the fertile northern plains to the vibrant kitchens of Tel Aviv, each dish tells a story of trade routes, migrations, and shared heritage.

Discover the classic dishes of Jerusalem and be inspired by the southern deserts, where nomadic traditions create earthy, inventive flavors. With recipes for shakshuka, challah, and baklava, among others, this photo book offers an in-depth look at the origins of beloved dishes and brings the rich flavors of the Middle East to your kitchen.

What can you expect?

• An authentic mix of recipes: From local markets and Arab traditions to the nomadic tribes of the desert and the modern food culture of Tel Aviv.
• Accessible for every home cook: Thanks to clear and simple instructions.
• A culinary journey: Discover the flavors and stories of the Middle East.

About the author:
David Haliva, author of several cookbooks, art director, and publicist, collaborated with a carefully selected group of chefs, restaurateurs, and photographers to create Abraham’s Kitchen. He is also the founder of 42 Degrees magazine, which has had a lasting impact on Tel Aviv's creative scene.

With Abraham’s Kitchen, you bring home not only special recipes but also a story of connection, tradition, and innovation. Perfect for lovers of Middle Eastern flavors and cultural richness!

Originale, Recipes and Essentials of Italian Cooking 

Discover the essence of authentic Italian dishes and learn how to create the rich flavors of Italy in your own kitchen with the right ingredients.

The power of Italian cuisine lies in the quality of its ingredients. For Italians, that quality is as essential as the air they breathe. It is this dedication to pure and fresh produce that makes classic, homemade Italian dishes so unique. The rich flavors and apparent simplicity of this cuisine are a tribute to the timeless, high-quality ingredients that form the basis of every dish.

The coffee table book Originale is not an ordinary cookbook, but a complete guide that shows you how to experience Italian cuisine authentically. The book offers dozens of inspiring recipes based on a select number of essential ingredients. By selecting and using these correctly, as explained in Originale, you can bring the flavors of Rome, Naples, or Bologna to your own table.

Lovingly compiled, Originale celebrates the timeless charm of Italian cuisine, its history, and culture. Let yourself be inspired by recipes and stories that take you to the heart of Italy. Buon appetito!

About the author
Remo Viani, founder of Viani Alimentari and director of Viani Importe GmbH, discovered the true flavors of Italy in his grandmother's homemade meals in Pietra Ligure. In the 1990s, he traded his career in advertising to follow in his Italian father's footsteps. He began importing regional specialties to Germany and grew into an authority in Italian delicacies, with stores, food festivals, and an indestructible passion for Italian food.