Books by Gestalten

Wanderlust Nordics, Exploring Trails in Scandinavia

Experience Scandinavia's most beautiful hiking trails with practical tips, detailed maps, and breathtaking photography.

From the spectacular fjords of Norway and the Arctic tundra to the serene forests of Sweden, the enchanting lakes of Finland, and the ice floes of Greenland: Scandinavia offers an unparalleled variety of landscapes and endless hiking opportunities.

The coffee table book Wanderlust Nordics takes you to this unique wilderness and presents a diverse selection of hiking routes that will inspire adventurers of all levels. This photo book is an invitation to discover the north and be enchanted by the tranquility and grandeur of this region.

About the Author
Cam Honan has traveled through 61 countries and six continents, covering more than 96,500 kilometers in three decades. He is the author of four bestsellers, including Wanderlust, Wanderlust USA, Wanderlust Himalaya, and The Hidden Tracks. Backpacker Magazine describes him as "the most traveled hiker in the world."

With Wanderlust Nordics, he introduces you to the magic of Scandinavian nature, perfect for every hiking and nature enthusiast.

Soft Minimal, Norm Architects: A Sensory Approach to Architecture and Design

Harmony in simplicity: the humane minimalism of Norm Architects creates spaces that feel as good as they look.

The work of Norm Architects revolves around well-being and balance. Their distinctive style combines simplicity with warmth, complexity with order, and richness with restraint. Whether it's architecture, interiors, or furniture, their soft minimalism appeals to both intellect and emotion, creating spaces that inspire visually and sensually.

In Soft Minimal, the first self-compiled monograph by Norm Architects, their most acclaimed works are presented. From Scandinavian homes to commercial projects in Italy and Japan, the book explores how they integrate the essence of Nordic traditions, modernist principles, and the use of natural materials. The result is an in-depth and poetic look at their creative process, where every space stimulates the senses and exudes tranquility.

Norm Architects is based in one of Copenhagen's oldest streets and plays a prominent role in the world of Nordic design. Their expertise lies in finding the perfect balance between adding and subtracting, with projects that garner admiration worldwide.

A must-have for lovers of minimalist design, architecture, and timeless interiors.

Two Years On a Bike, From Vancouver to Patagonia

An epic intercontinental journey that will ignite your desire for adventure.

Can you live permanently on the road? With just a few bags strapped to your bike, a roadside dinner as your office, and an endless route from Canada to the south of Argentina as your home? In the coffee table book Two Years On a Bike, Martijn Doolaard tests this lifestyle. He packs his essentials and embarks on an adventure through desolate wildernesses, vibrant cities, and breathtaking landscapes, discovering what it means to feel at home anywhere in the world.

From the winding roads along the Californian coast, through the impenetrable jungles of Mexico, and over the high Andean passes to the rugged forests of Patagonia, Doolaard captures one of the most breathtaking and challenging routes in the world. His journey is about minimalism, perseverance, and the freedom of long-term travel.

About the author
Martijn Doolaard is a Dutch photographer, designer, and travel writer. His love for the outdoors began during fishing and camping trips with his brothers in a small village in the Netherlands. In 2015, he paused his city life to cycle to China, which he documented in his acclaimed photo book One Year On a Bike. But the desire for a new adventure soon returned...

For anyone who dreams of an unparalleled journey or wants to be inspired by the power of simple living.

Eat Your Greens! Plant-focused recipes for the kitchen

There's so much more you can do with vegetables than you think! The coffee table book Eat Your Greens! offers over 800 plant-based recipes that will help you discover new, creative ways to prepare vegetables. From exciting parsnip preparations to surprising cabbage recipes – this photo book helps you rediscover the vegetable garden.

Get to know more than 40 vegetables, learn when they are in season, how best to store them, and which ingredients they combine perfectly with. Whether you want to swap mashed potatoes for eggplant baked with mint, garlic, and pine nuts, or prepare red beets in a surprising way, this book will inspire you to expand your vegetable repertoire and eat more consciously.

Why choose Eat Your Greens?

• Simple and flavorful recipes: Accessible and suitable for every home cook.
• Sustainable cooking: Good for yourself and the planet.
• All about vegetables: Seasonal information, storage tips, and clever combinations.

About the authors:
Anette Dieng is a former chef and founder of Ekolådan, Sweden's leading vegetable box. She is committed to sustainably produced food.
Ingela Persson, chef and baker, writes recipes for Ekolådan and runs the renowned Brasserie Bobonne in Stockholm.

With Eat Your Greens! you'll transform everyday vegetables into culinary surprises that are both delicious and environmentally friendly. A must-have for every cooking enthusiast!

Beautiful Machines, The Era of the Elegant Sports Car

Experience the era when style, romance, and pure performance defined the automotive landscape with Beautiful Machines. This impressive coffee table book tells the story of over 45 iconic cars that not only captured the spirit of their time but also influenced the mass production of cars worldwide.

A Celebration of Beauty and Innovation
From the shark-like lines of the Maserati Ghibli and the fiery Lamborghini Miura to the European elegance of the Iso Grifo and Facel Vega with American power. Discover the groundbreaking designs of the Alfa Romeo Tipo 33 Stradale and Renault Alpine, and admire the advanced technology of the Jensen FF and Porsche 918 Spyder. These cars are more than vehicles: they are an ode to beauty, freedom, ambition, innovation, and speed.

Why choose Beautiful Machines?

• Captivating Photography: Stunning full-color photos bring the cars to life.
• Intriguing Stories: Behind every model lies a story that reveals the soul of its design and performance.
• Historical Perspective: Shows how these cars paved the way for the future of automotive engineering.

About the Authors
Blake Z. Rong, a renowned automotive journalist, wrote the stories in this book. His work has been published in Autoweek, Road & Track, and Petrolicious, among others. Jan Baedeker, editor-in-chief of Classic Driver, wrote the foreword together with Gestalten's Robert Klanten.

The photo book Beautiful Machines is a must-have for car enthusiasts and design fanatics, a book you don't just read, but also admire. Perfect for the showroom, living room, or as inspiration for your next road trip.

One Year on a Bike, From Amsterdam to Singapore

One man, one bicycle, one unforgettable journey. The coffee table book One Year on a Bike tells the inspiring story of Martijn Doolaard, who traded his comfortable life for an epic cycling trip from Amsterdam to Singapore. This impressive coffee table book takes you on his adventure, where he discovers the beauty of slow travel and learns to live day by day.

From the vast rapeseed fields in Eastern Europe to the hospitable communities in Iran – Doolaard shares not only breathtaking photos and personal stories but also practical insights into the equipment and preparation that made his journey possible. This photo book is an ode to freedom, self-discovery, and the art of being on the road. A must-have for adventurers, cycling enthusiasts, and anyone dreaming of a grand adventure.

About the Author
Martijn Doolaard is a Dutch photographer, designer, and travel writer. His love for the outdoors began during fishing and camping holidays with his brothers in a small village in the Netherlands. In 2015, he paused his city life to cycle to China, which he documented in his acclaimed book One Year on a Bike.

The Great Alone, Walking The Pacific Crest Trail 

Embark on an adventurous journey along the impressive Pacific Crest Trail and discover the healing power of nature. In the coffee table book The Great Alone, Tim Voors takes you on a 4,286-kilometer trek, from the Mojave Desert, across the towering peaks of the Sierra Nevada, all the way to the Canadian border.

A story of adventure and self-discovery
This photo book is more than just a report of a hike. It is an inspiring story about physical and mental strength, overcoming loneliness and fear, and the transformative effect of the wilderness on the human spirit.

Breathtaking images and valuable tips
Richly illustrated with stunning photography, The Great Alone brings the beauty of the American West to life. Tim Voors, an experienced long-distance hiker, shares his personal experiences and practical advice, including:

• Hiking techniques and etiquette
• Preparing food packages for on the go
• Dealing with bears and other challenges in the wilderness

Let yourself be inspired
Whether you're planning a long trek yourself or simply want to dream away with the images and stories, The Great Alone is an invitation to pack your backpack and head into nature. The book shows how a journey through the wilderness not only challenges your body but also enriches your soul.

The Great Alone is a must-have for lovers of hiking, adventure, and the tranquility of nature.

Porsche 911, The Ultimate Sportscar as Cultural Icon

The Porsche 911 is more than a car; it is a symbol of ultimate performance, unparalleled power, and timeless elegance. This masterpiece of German engineering inspires and fascinates car enthusiasts worldwide.

A sports car with a unique story
When Ferdinand Porsche couldn't find a sports car that met his demands, he decided to design one himself. The result? An iconic car that, since its launch in 1963, has not only captured the hearts of car enthusiasts but has also become a cultural phenomenon. From the car love of Jerry Seinfeld and Steve McQueen to the outspoken criticism of Jeremy Clarkson, the Porsche 911 evokes emotions like few other cars can.

A symbol of freedom and perfection
Although the Porsche 911 was once seen in Germany as the car for wealthy businessmen, in countries like the United States and far beyond, it has gained status as the sports car for free thinkers and intellectuals. With its sublime design and technical perfection, the 911 is rightly called "the sports car for thinkers."

A deep dive into a legend
In the coffee table book Porsche 911, The Ultimate Sportscar as Cultural Icon, author Ulf Poschardt explores how this iconic sports car grew into a global symbol of ambition, freedom, and unprecedented performance. He not only examines the technical marvels behind the 911 but also delves into the psyche of the Porsche driver and demonstrates why this car holds a lasting appeal for generations young and old.

About the author
Ulf Poschardt, born in Nuremberg in 1967, is a renowned German journalist with a background in philosophy. He worked as editor-in-chief of the German editions of Vanity Fair and Rolling Stone, and currently holds the position of editor-in-chief at WELTN24.

This richly illustrated photo book is a must-have for lovers of the Porsche 911, automotive history, and cultural heritage. Discover why this car is not only a technical milestone but also a cultural icon that continues to inspire.

Less but Better

The new edition of Dieter Rams' masterpiece.

Few product designs have stood the test of time like Dieter Rams' creations. Almost everything this influential twentieth-century designer created is now considered a classic. This new, revised edition of Less but Better once again shows why Rams’ vision of design remains relevant, now and in the future.

In a world where ideas about good design constantly change due to cultural and technological developments, Dieter Rams offers a timeless approach. His ten design principles – focused on purity and simplicity – are still considered fundamental to design practice and theory.

The coffee table book Less but Better is not a complete documentation of Rams' work or a detailed history of Braun. Instead, this photo book offers insight into the ideas, criteria, and methods behind his designs. It shows how a changing culture of product development has led to universal design standards. His reflections on ethics and values in design provide clear guidance for the future. One principle always remains true: less is simply better.

About Dieter Rams:
Dieter Rams (born in Wiesbaden in 1932) began his career as an architect and is globally recognized as one of the most influential industrial designers of the twentieth century. During his more than 40 years at electronics manufacturer Braun, he created groundbreaking designs that continue to inspire designers worldwide. Rams also introduced a new awareness of the social function of design in Germany.

About Jo Klatt:
Jo Klatt is a recognized expert and collector of Braun products. He worked for many years at the magazine Design+Design and published several works, including the first edition of Less but Better.

With Less but Better, you not only bring a beautiful coffee table book into your home, but also a timeless reference work on design philosophy. Ideal for lovers of minimalist design, architecture, and industrial design.

Ikarus Invites The World's Best Chefs, Exceptional Recipes and International Chefs in Portrait Vol 10

Discover the culinary revolution of Restaurant Ikarus in this anniversary edition, where Executive Chef Martin Klein brings together the world's most prestigious cuisines.

Highlights:

• Exclusive Behind-the-scenes of Restaurant Ikarus
• Recipes from the world's top chefs
• Two-star gastronomy in Hangar-7, Salzburg

Unique concept:

• 20 years of guest chefs from international top cuisine
• Detailed explanation of special menus
• Step-by-step recreation of top dishes

Ideal for:

• Culinary professionals
• Cookbook collectors
• Foodies
• Gastronomy enthusiasts

About the authors:
Martin Klein and the Ikarus team: Architects of a revolutionary culinary experience.

A culinary masterpiece that explores the boundaries of culinary art!

Think Big - Shop Small, Unique Stores and Contemporary Retail Design

The most beautiful boutiques and inspiring retail concepts worldwide

What truly makes a store special? Coffee table book Think Big - Shop Small takes you to the most unique and innovative stores that go far beyond just a place to buy products. This book shows how independent shops and concept stores create a total experience, where design, atmosphere, and personal service come together.

In a time when online shopping is the norm, these stores prove the power of personal interaction and carefully curated collections. From beautifully designed flagship stores to small, artisanal boutiques with a surprising assortment – Think Big - Shop Small demonstrates how retail is being reinvented.

With eye-catching interiors, creative retail concepts, and unique customer experiences, this book offers inspiration for both shop owners and enthusiasts of retail design and architecture. Discover how independent stores not only sell products but also create stories, shopping experiences, and a unique atmosphere.

The coffee table book Think Big - Shop Small is a tribute to the art of shopping and shows how special stores worldwide leave a lasting impression. A must-have coffee table book full of inspiration for unique shopping experiences.

Perfect for: Entrepreneurs, shop lovers, designers, and trend watchers

About the author:
Marianne Julia Strauss is a German travel journalist who has turned her curiosity into her profession. For ten years, she has been traveling the world, writing about the most beautiful places and the good things in life. For Gestalten, she previously published the books Do You Read Me? and Temples of Books, in which she showcased the most remarkable bookstores and libraries worldwide.

The Beauty of Time Travel, The Work of Ramdane Touhami and the Agency Art Recherche Industrie for Officine Universelle Buly

How was a forgotten 19th-century brand transformed into a global icon in the beauty industry? The coffee table book The Beauty of Time Travel reveals the fascinating process behind the revival of Officine Universelle Buly, a brand that uniquely combines craftsmanship, tradition, and innovation.

It all began with a Balzac novel, a flea market find, and a spark of creative inspiration. Thanks to the vision of entrepreneur and designer Ramdane Touhami, in collaboration with his creative agency Art Recherche Industrie, Buly grew into a globally beloved brand. With a unique blend of nostalgia and modernity, the brand presents an exclusive collection of luxury personal care products—always elegant, surprising, and refined down to the smallest detail.

This photo book offers an in-depth look at the branding, strategy, and artisanal perfection that have made Buly an unparalleled success. From reinventing traditions to the secrets behind its groundbreaking retail concept: The Beauty of Time Travel is an indispensable coffee table book for lovers of design, luxury, and innovation.

About the author:
Ramdane Touhami is an internationally renowned designer, creative director, and entrepreneur. Since the 1990s, he has launched various successful fashion and retail concepts in Paris, London, Tokyo, and New York. Together with his partner Victoire de Taillac, he leads Officine Universelle Buly, a brand known worldwide for its refined cosmetics and distinctive branding.

The New Beauty, A Modern Look At Beauty, Culture, and Fashion

A modern look at beauty, culture, and fashion

Beauty is ever-evolving. The coffee table book The New Beauty takes you on a visual journey through the history, present, and future of beauty in an increasingly globalized world.

Where beauty ideals were once dictated by rigid societal norms, today we see a movement towards personal expression and diversity. This photo book examines the transformation of the beauty industry from a historical, scientific, and journalistic perspective. From makeup as a means to challenge gender roles to the social role of hairstyles and the meaning of rituals as self-care—The New Beauty explores how beauty is more than just appearance.

This inspiring coffee table book is for anyone interested in the power of self-expression, the evolution of beauty standards, and the influence of culture on our appearance and well-being.

About the author:
Kari Molvar is an American lifestyle journalist and author of Be Well. She regularly writes for The New York Times, Vogue, and The Wall Street Journal, among others. In her second book, she delves deeper into the historical, scientific, and political aspects of an industry that is constantly evolving.

Urban Farmers, The Now (and How) of Growing Food in the City

Urban Farming for a Greener and More Sustainable Future

A greener, healthier, and more sustainable life in the city starts with what we eat. But do you know where your food comes from? The coffee table book Urban Farmers takes you into the world of urban farming and shows how we can plant, grow, and harvest even in an urban environment.

From underground mushroom farms to rooftop beekeeping—this photo book showcases the most innovative forms of urban farming and provides practical tips for getting started yourself. With the right knowledge and tools, we can consciously grow our living environment and strengthen our connection with nature.

Whether you are a balcony gardener or an ambitious urban farmer, Urban Farmers offers inspiration, expertise, and the motivation to start growing sustainable food yourself.

About the Author:
Valery Rizzo is an American photographer specializing in portraits, food, and lifestyle, with a focus on urban farming and city life. Her work has appeared in The New York Times Style Magazine, Yes! Magazine, Der Spiegel, and D La Repubblica, among others.

The Monocle Guide to Shops, Kiosks and Markets, A must-have guide

The ultimate guide to the perfect shopping experience – packed with inspiration and practical tips for entrepreneurs and shoppers.

What truly makes a shop special? The coffee table book The Monocle Guide to Shops, Kiosks and Markets delves into the world of retail, revealing how to set up, design, and run a successful shop, kiosk, or market. From charming boutiques to grand department stores, this guide introduces you to Monocle's 100 favorite shops worldwide.

This photo book is a valuable resource for anyone with a passion for retail – whether you run a shop, dream of starting one, or simply love discovering unique shopping experiences. With inspiring case studies, sharp essays, engaging interviews, and practical tips, this guide offers a complete toolkit for entrepreneurs and shoppers. So, let us show you around!

About Monocle:
Monocle was founded in 2007 by Tyler Brûlé as a monthly magazine covering global affairs, business, culture, and design. Monocle has since grown into a leading media company with its own travel guides, a 24/7 radio station, a website full of video content, and various shops and cafés in cities like Tokyo and London. In addition to its headquarters in London, Monocle has seven international offices, including in New York, Toronto, Singapore, and Zurich. Their mission? To tell innovative stories and explore the world with a fresh perspective.

The Monocle Guide to Building Better Cities

An inspiring guide for anyone dreaming of a better, more livable city. The city of the future starts here.

What truly makes a city great? The coffee table book The Monocle Guide to Building Better Cities explores how we can create cities that are not only efficient and functional but also ensure a high quality of life. Whether you're looking for a new place to live or want to improve your own city, this photo book offers insights and solutions.

Monocle delves into the essential building blocks of an ideal city: from good public transport and workplaces to subtle but indispensable elements like urban gardens, swimming spots, and vibrant rooftop clubs. With inspiring examples and success stories from around the world, you'll discover how cities are becoming more pedestrian-friendly, how green oases are emerging, and how a polluted river can become a lively meeting place.

This beautifully designed coffee table book, filled with photos and engaging reports, brings the debate on urban development to a broader audience. It is a must-have for architects, urban planners, and anyone with a passion for urban innovation.

About Monocle:
Since its founding in 2007 by Tyler Brûlé, Monocle has been committed to better and more livable cities. The renowned magazine annually publishes the Quality of Life Survey, highlighting the 25 best cities in the world. Additionally, Monocle interviews influential mayors, urban planners, and designers who are reshaping the urban landscape.

Monocle has grown into an international media platform with travel guides, a 24-hour radio station, a dynamic website full of video content, and its own stores and cafés in places like Tokyo and London. With offices in cities such as New York, Singapore, and Zurich, Monocle remains a leader in the world of design, culture, and urban development.

The Monocle Guide to Good Business, Your guide to good business

An inspiring handbook for entrepreneurs, startups, and companies that dare to think differently and want to do business sustainably.

What truly makes a company successful? The coffee table book The Monocle Guide to Good Business offers a fresh perspective on entrepreneurship and work culture. This photo book is intended for anyone looking to start a business, revitalize an existing enterprise, or simply seeking innovative ideas. No standard management jargon or empty promises, but a practical and inspiring guide on how to run a business in a way that is sustainable and enjoyable.

From company culture and customer experience to the design of your workplace and even bringing your dog to the office – this coffee table book shows that success isn't just about profit, but also about well-being, creativity, and vision. Packed with original photography, illustrations, and insights from leading entrepreneurs and companies worldwide.

About Monocle
Monocle was founded in 2007 by Tyler Brûlé, former war correspondent and founder of Wallpaper magazine. Monocle is known for its in-depth analyses of world affairs, business, culture, and design. In addition to the magazine, Monocle has a 24-hour radio station, a rich online film platform, shops, and cafés in global cities such as Tokyo and London. With its unique and cosmopolitan vision, Monocle is an indispensable source of inspiration for modern entrepreneurs.

Dieter Rams: Less and More – The Design Philosophy of Dieter Rams

Dieter Rams is one of the most influential industrial designers of the 20th century. Over more than 40 years at Braun, he developed a minimalist and functional design style that has influenced generations of designers. His philosophy of "less, but better" has not only defined product design but also our view of what design is and what it should be.

The coffee table book Less and More offers an inspiring look at Rams' groundbreaking work and is a must-have for lovers of design, architecture, and aesthetics. This beautifully designed coffee table book contains an extensive collection of his iconic designs and shows how his principles of simplicity and user-friendliness remain relevant to this day.

About the authors:
Dieter Rams (1932, Wiesbaden) began his career as an architect but grew to become a leading industrial designer. At Braun, he designed numerous innovative products and set a new standard for functional design with a societal impact.

Professor Klaus Klemp is an internationally recognized expert in product design and an authority on Rams' work. He has known the designer for years and delves into the philosophy behind his designs.

Keiko Ueki-Polet is one of Japan's most renowned design curators. She has deep knowledge of design developments in both Asia and the Western world.

This photo book is an essential addition for anyone inspired by timeless, thoughtful, and innovative design.