Books by Gestalten

The Monocle Travel Guide to Brussels + Antwerp

An inspiring travel guide to the dynamic cities of Brussels and Antwerp, with excursions to hidden gems in Belgium.

Brussels may be the political heart of Europe, but it is also a city full of character and contrasts. Its cosmopolitan atmosphere and diplomatic bustle go hand in hand with historic squares, culinary delights, and vibrant neighborhoods. Just an hour away by train lies Antwerp—a port city where creativity and culture take precedence, sometimes even more so than its famous diamond trade.

In The Monocle Travel Guide to Brussels & Antwerp, we take you to the most extraordinary places in both cities. From trendy concept stores and refined restaurants to art galleries and architectural gems—this guide is an indispensable companion for anyone who wants to discover Belgium in a stylish and contemporary way. And of course, we also take a look at some smaller, charming cities with winding canals and rich history.

About Monocle:
Monocle, globally renowned for its sharp insight into cities, culture, and lifestyle, compiles its knowledge in this unique travel guide. With correspondents in Milan, Bogotá, and Paris, among other places, and a worldwide network of editorial offices—from Los Angeles to Tokyo—Monocle offers profound insights into the finest urban experiences.

The Monocle Travel Guide to Amsterdam (Updated Version)

The ultimate guide to experiencing the real Amsterdam like a local, far from the tourist clichés.

Amsterdam is a city that never ceases to surprise – whether you're visiting for the first time or have called it home for years. At first glance, the city seems manageable, with its horseshoe-shaped canal belt and compact center. But those who look closer will discover hidden gems in the maze of canals and emerging neighborhoods that are just a short bike ride from the heart of the city.

In The Monocle Travel Guide to Amsterdam, we take you to our favorite places – from the best independent shops and design boutiques to culinary hotspots for every taste. We'll show you the way to the coziest brown cafés, special museums, and breathtaking architecture, where classic and modern go hand in hand. Let this stylish and contemporary guide inspire you to experience Amsterdam like the locals do.

About Monocle:
Monocle, globally renowned for its keen eye on cities, culture, and lifestyle, compiles its knowledge in this unique travel guide. With correspondents in Milan, Bogotá, and Paris, among other places, and a worldwide network of editorial offices – from Los Angeles to Tokyo – Monocle offers profound insights into the most beautiful urban experiences.

Isay Weinfeld, An Architect from Brazil

Minimalist Bauhaus design with a touch of tropical elegance by Isay Weinfeld, an architect from Brazil.

Brazilian architect Isay Weinfeld is renowned worldwide for his unique style, which merges modern elegance with tropical influences. His vision of architecture goes beyond mere functionality; for Weinfeld, a building is a total work of art that must be both practical and aesthetically refined. His designs are characterized by clean lines, open spaces, and harmony between nature and architecture.

The coffee table book Isay Weinfeld highlights over 50 of the architect's iconic projects. From the luxurious apartments of La Petite Afrique in Monte Carlo and the greenery-surrounded 360 Garden Apartments in São Paulo to the distinctive architecture of the Livraria da Vila bookstore in Alameda Lorena. Characteristic of Weinfeld's work are large glass facades, concrete structures, warm wood tones, and subtle color nuances, which together create an understated yet impressive aesthetic.

This publication offers an exclusive look into the world of an architect who rarely speaks about his own work. With previously unpublished photos, detailed floor plans, and in-depth analyses of his most notable projects, this photo book provides an inspiring introduction to one of the most influential architects of our time.

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.

Modernist Icons – An Ode to Mid-Century Modern Design

Immerse yourself in the timeless elegance of Mid-Century Modern with Modernist Icons. This inspiring coffee table book takes you on a visual journey through iconic architecture, interiors, and furniture designs from around the world.

A style that stands the test of time
From organic forms and functional designs to clean lines and refined elegance – Modernist Icons shows how this design movement developed and how its influence is still felt in interior design and architecture today.

A deep dive into mid-century modern
This beautifully curated photo book features expert essays and impressive images of influential designers and architects. Discover how Mid-Century Modern is not just a style of living, but a philosophy that continues to inspire art, culture, and design.

For lovers of design and architecture
Whether you are an avid design enthusiast, have a passion for architecture, or are looking for inspiration for your own interior – Modernist Icons is an essential addition to your collection.

Wanderlust Europe – The Great European Hike

Discover Europe’s Most Beautiful Nature and Enchanting Hiking Trails
Europe offers an impressive variety of natural landscapes and some of the most breathtaking hiking trails to explore them. The coffee table book Wanderlust Europe takes you on an adventure from the Scottish Highlands to the endless amber beaches of the Baltic Sea, from the Scandinavian tundra and the majestic peaks of the Alps to the pristine mountains of the Balkans, and from the rugged coastal mountains of the Mediterranean islands to the romantic Rhine Valley.

What does this book offer?
- Explore Europe’s most beautiful nature: discover iconic hiking trails and impressive landscapes
- Practical tips from an expert: advice from outdoor expert Alex Roddie on how to best experience nature
- Spectacular photography: stunning images of breathtaking nature and iconic places
- Handy maps: informative maps and route descriptions for both beginners and experienced hikers

From short walks to long treks
Wanderlust Europe offers hiking routes for every level: from short day trips to long-distance hikes and adventurous weekend trips. This photo book is ideal for anyone who wants to discover nature and experience the freedom of the outdoors.

About the author:
Alex Roddie is a writer, editor, and photographer specializing in adventure travel, the outdoor public, and non-fiction about mountaineering, hiking, and nature conservation. He has walked thousands of kilometers through the Scottish Highlands, the English Lake District, the Swiss Alps, the Pyrenees, and the Fjells of Norway. Roddie is also an active environmentalist.

Surf Shacks – An eclectic collection of creative surfer homes

Let yourself be carried away into the inspiring worlds of surfers worldwide. Surf Shacks is a stylish coffee table book full of character, offering a unique glimpse into the homes and creative lives of surfers – from a cozy hut in Hawaii to an apartment in New York, or even a converted bus serving as both home and transport.

It turns out surfers are not only passionate wave-riders but also artists, designers, and storytellers. In this book, you'll discover their living spaces, workplaces, record collections, gardens, and studios – all places that reflect their personality and lifestyle, far from the waves.

With stunning photography, intimate anecdotes, illustrations, and interviews, the photo book Surf Shacks reveals how diverse, creative, and quirky the surf community is. Whether it's filmmaker Jess Bianchi's secluded Hawaiian retreat, Hiromi Masubara's (former CEO of the Surfrider Foundation Japan) forested Japanese sanctuary, or shaper Ryan Lovelace's mobile home – each story offers a unique insight into life behind the waves.

This book is a must-have for lovers of surf culture, surfer lifestyle, interior design, and creative interiors and homes.

About Indoek
Indoek is a creative collective and online platform that focuses on the independent and artistic side of surf culture. They bring together stories, portraits, music, art, and design from the world of surfing. With a keen eye for aesthetics and content, they provide an authentic portrayal of the people and places behind the waves. Surf Shacks is one of their most beloved projects.

Surf Shacks Vol. 2 – A New Wave of Surf Living

Discover the inspiring interiors and lifestyles of surfers around the world with Surf Shacks Vol. 2. This beautiful coffee table book takes you to the creative, unique, and sometimes unexpected homes of surfers – from treehouses in Hawaii to city apartments, from minimalist containers in Byron Bay to rustic cabins in Japan.

Surfing is more than a sport – it's a lifestyle. In this second installment of the popular Surf Shacks series, Matt Titone shows how surfers live, work, and create. With intimate stories, stunning photography, and a glimpse into creative studios, gardens, and living rooms, you'll get a unique insight into the daily lives of these eccentric coastal dwellers.

From architect Jamie Smallwood's off-grid container home to the Goodwin family's bus-residence – each chapter tells an inspiring story of freedom, design, and connection to nature.

This book is the perfect gift for lovers of surf culture, surfer lifestyle, interior design, and creative interiors and homes.

About the Author:
Matt Titone is a graphic designer and co-founder of the creative agency ITAL/C Studio and the platform Indoek – an online community that brings together surf culture and creativity. He lives in Los Angeles and is the mastermind behind the Surf Shacks book series, in which he documents the unique living and lifestyle of surfers.

Handmade in Japan, The Pursuit of Perfection in Traditional Crafts
Authors: gestalten, Irwin Wong, Antje Papist-Matsuo & Kengo Kuma

A tribute to Japanese craftsmanship and cultural heritage

In a world increasingly returning to craftsmanship and authenticity, Handmade in Japan takes you to the heart of Japanese craft traditions. This beautiful coffee table book offers a unique glimpse into the workshops of Japanese masters, artisans who dedicate their lives to preserving ancient techniques, with unparalleled attention to detail and quality.

Whether it's hand-painted kimonos, hand-carved wooden trays, or bamboo tea whisks: each piece tells a story of dedication, precision, and respect for materials. From the fiery south of Kyushu to the imperial atmosphere of Kyoto and the snowy mountains of Hokkaido – this photo book takes you on an inspiring journey through Japan's most special regions and crafts.

Photographer Irwin Wong masterfully captures the soul of the makers and their work with his powerful images. His photography is complemented by essays from Antje Papist-Matsuo, an expert in East Asian crafts, and a personal foreword by world-renowned architect Kengo Kuma, who emphasizes the value of this knowledge and these traditions for future generations.

Why this book is a must-have:

• Perfect for lovers of Japanese culture, design, and craft
• Beautifully executed with impressive photography and in-depth stories
• Ideal as a coffee table book and source of inspiration
• A unique insight into the world of traditional Japanese makers

About Irwin Wong:
Irwin Wong is an Australian photographer based in Tokyo, specializing in portrait and documentary photography. His clients include Apple, Forbes, Nike, and The Washington Post. His fascination with craft began when he started photographing Japanese makers for editorial assignments. Handmade in Japan is his first photo book.

Hit The Road - Vans, Nomads & Roadside Adventures
Author: gestalten

For everyone who dreams of ultimate freedom on four wheels

Hit The Road is an inspiring coffee table book for adventurers, travelers, and lovers of life on the road. From a weekend trip to months-long expeditions off the beaten path: this photo book takes you on a journey with people who chose to make their home on wheels and explore the world.

Let yourself be swept away by impressive stories of modern nomads and their unique vehicles - from classic Volkswagen vans to robust 4x4 campers and stylishly renovated Airstream trailers. Each story is enriched with stunning photography, routes, and personal anecdotes from people who changed course and chose a life full of freedom, nature, and adventure.

Whether it's a culinary couple who traveled through Spain, Portugal, and England in a VW T4, friends who drove a Porsche 944 to Cape Town, or a solo traveler who crossed Canada under the northern lights in a Honda Element - Hit The Road offers a glimpse into the lives of travelers who deliberately choose the unknown.

Why this coffee table book is highly recommended:

• An ode to the freedom of travel and the outdoor life
• Perfect for lovers of campers, vans, off-grid living, and road trips
• Full of inspiring photos, stories, and practical travel insights
• Ideal gift for adventurous souls or for inspiration for your next trip

From the deserts of Africa to the snow-capped mountains of Mongolia – this book motivates you to pack your bags, start the engine, and follow the horizon.
Get inspired and… Hit the Road.

Ricardo Bofill – new edition, Visions of Architecture

A monumental tribute to the poetic, utopian, and radical world of one of the 20th century's most visionary architects.

The book Ricardo Bofill – New Edition: Visions of Architecture is an impressive coffee table book that showcases the exceptional work and ideas of Ricardo Bofill. With his iconic projects and progressive vision on living, architecture, and society, Bofill challenged traditional architecture for years. His work balances art and functionality, dream and reality.

This comprehensive monograph introduces you to Bofill's best-known and most groundbreaking projects, including the industrial masterpiece La Fábrica, the colorful and geometric residential complex La Muralla Roja, the experimental Walden 7, and the monumental Les Espaces d’Abraxas. Each project reflects his fascination with community, imagination, and innovative forms of coexistence.

What to expect in this book:

• Spectacular new photography by Salva López
• Insights and essays from architecture experts such as Nacho Alegre and Douglas Murphy
• Personal texts and sketches by Ricardo Bofill himself
• Floor plans, design drawings, and rare archive material

About the author:
Ricardo Bofill (1939–2022) was more than an architect – he was a visionary thinker, an artist, and a designer of alternative living worlds. His work is cherished worldwide for its unique blend of brutalist forms, Mediterranean influences, and futuristic vistas. His buildings ignite the imagination and are more popular than ever today, with a cult status among designers, photographers, and architecture enthusiasts.

Who is this book for?
Perfect for lovers of design, architecture, art, and urban culture. Whether you are an architect, photographer, creative, or simply fascinated by extraordinary buildings: this book is a visual spectacle and a source of inspiration.

An ode to the power of imagination and the freedom of form – this photo book brings Bofill’s dream worlds to life.

Concrete, Mon Amour. The Raw Imprint of Modernism
Authors: gestalten & Stefano Perego

A photographic ode to brutalism and the enduring power of modernist architecture
• Impressive photography of the 20th century's boldest concrete constructions
• For lovers of architecture, design, urban exploration and brutalist heritage
• A visual reflection on the ideals and contradictions of modernism

Concrete as an art form – raw, uncompromising, and fascinating. In Concrete, Mon Amour, architectural photographer Stefano Perego masterfully captures the monumental power and poetic simplicity of brutalist architecture. From forgotten buildings to world-renowned monuments, this book reveals how the radical visual language of modernism continues to evoke emotions and provoke thought.

In diverse landscapes, urban or desolate, decayed or untouched, Perego exposes the soul of concrete. His images show the tension between decay and durability, idealism and power, grandeur and simplicity. Every building in this book tells a layered story that extends far beyond architecture alone.

What to expect:

• A photographic journey through modernist concrete architecture by Stefano Perego, inspired by the renewed fascination with brutalism in art and popular culture
• A carefully curated selection of buildings – from famous landmarks to obscure relics – that makes the tension between decay and preservation palpable
• Impressive photography that captures the raw materiality, visual language, and changing meaning of concrete architecture in diverse environments

Concrete, mon amour is an aesthetic statement and an invitation to reflect on the legacy of a bold design philosophy that still resonates in our urban landscape.

About the author

Stefano Perego is an architectural photographer from Milan, specializing in modernist, brutalist, and postmodern structures in Europe. His work is known for its ability to capture both the grandeur and fragility of architecture. With an eye for detail and composition, he invites viewers to reflect on the ideals, beauty, and contradictions of modernism. His photography is beloved worldwide by architecture enthusiasts, urban explorers, and art connoisseurs.

Cottagecore, New Countryside Living
Author: gestalten

Discover the peace and romance of modern rural living
• Atmospheric interiors at the crossroads of rural charm and contemporary design
• For lovers of cottagecore, slow living, sustainable living and rural aesthetics
• A visual ode to the longing for simplicity, connection and characterful living spaces

In a time when city life is becoming increasingly busy and digital, the desire for peace, space, and a more conscious way of life is growing. Cottagecore, New Countryside Living perfectly captures this feeling in both images and stories. This inspiring coffee table book shows how a new generation is exchanging the hustle and bustle of the city for the rhythm of the countryside, creating unique, stylish homes there.

These interiors combine the best of both worlds: they exude nostalgia and rural charm, yet are infused with a modern aesthetic and a strong sense of atmosphere, comfort, and sustainability. Each home is a personal sanctuary where history and contemporary vision come together.

What to expect:

• A carefully curated selection of country homes that combine authenticity with contemporary comfort
• Inspiring stories about city dwellers who consciously choose a life in the countryside and completely shape their homes to their own taste
• Enchanting photography that captures the essence of the cottagecore lifestyle: simplicity, character, and genuine beauty

About the publisher: gestalten

gestalten is a leading publisher from Berlin, known worldwide for high-quality books on design, interior, lifestyle, travel, and visual culture. The publisher guarantees inspiring publications with a distinctive aesthetic, strong storytelling, and an in-depth look at contemporary trends. Cottagecore – New Countryside Living is a beautiful example of gestalten's mission: to create books that are not only read, but also experienced.

Creative Homes, Interiors and Design in Belgium
Authors: gestalten, Living Inside & Luc Roymans

An inspiring look into Belgium's most distinctive interiors
• 21 unique homes showcasing the versatility of Belgian design and craftsmanship
• Rich photography by Luc Roymans, specialist in interior and architecture
• Personal stories offering insight into Belgian living culture and design principles
• For lovers of aesthetics, atmosphere, creative living, and contemporary lifestyle

From urban ateliers to rural retreats, the coffee table book Creative Homes opens the doors to 21 exceptional Belgian interiors where creativity, craftsmanship, and authenticity converge. The inhabitants, including jewelers, artists, architects, and chefs, leave a strong personal mark on their living spaces with their environment. These homes tell stories: about identity, about material use, about the art of omission, and the courage to show character.

Through powerful photography and in-depth descriptions, you'll discover how historical elements and modern visions seamlessly blend. Each interior reflects a way of life centered on tranquility, aesthetics, and thoughtful design.

About the photographer: Luc Roymans

Luc Roymans (born in 1977) is a renowned Belgian photographer specializing in interior and architectural photography. He graduated in 1999 from the KDG School for Audiovisual Techniques in Antwerp. Roymans is known for his warm, accessible style and his ability to capture the soul of a space. His work has been published internationally and is beloved for his refined eye for composition, light, and detail.

The Art Escapes Atlas, Cultural Experiences Around the Globe
Author: gestalten

Where art and environment merge: a visual journey to the most inspiring art locations worldwide
• Discover hidden art destinations worldwide – from wilderness to metropolis
• From iconic artists' homes to groundbreaking land art and architecture
• For travelers, art lovers, and culture seekers with a passion for the road less traveled

The Art Escapes Atlas takes you on a unique journey of discovery to the most intriguing art locations in the world, places where art breaks free from the museum and merges with its surroundings. Think of Georgia O’Keeffe's house in the desert, Frida Kahlo's colorful home in Mexico City, or monumental artworks in desolate landscapes and unexpected corners of global cities.

In this beautifully designed coffee table book, you'll discover how art and landscape reinforce each other and how architecture, history, and expression come together in special locations. Each chapter offers inspiring photography and compelling stories that reveal the creative and cultural significance of the place.

What to expect:

• A carefully curated selection of art locations worldwide, from rugged natural areas to hidden urban spots
• Impressive photography that brings both the artwork and the surroundings to life
• Stories and backgrounds that make the meaning, history, and energy of each place palpable

About the author:

This photo book is compiled by gestalten, a leading publisher specializing in design, architecture, travel, and lifestyle. Their publications combine visual splendor with substantive depth and are aimed at a global audience of creative thinkers, designers, and cultural explorers.

Glitches & Glory, The Digitally Rewired Art of David Szauder
Authors: gestalten & David Szauder

Digital imperfection as an art form: how glitches transform into impactful visual stories
• Experimental digital art that breaks boundaries between technology, memory, and identity
• A stunning photo book with colorful, glitch-based compositions
• A must-have for lovers of AI art, generative techniques, and modern visual language

In Glitches & Glory, David Szauder transforms technological errors into meaningful art. Where others see noise, he sees potential: visual disturbances become layered, stimulating images that reflect on memory, identity, and the human relationship with technology. With his unique blend of visual programming, AI, and creative experimentation, Szauder challenges the viewer to experience digital imperfection in a new way.

This richly illustrated coffee table book showcases an impressive selection of Szauder’s most iconic works, a visual spectacle where digital disruption transforms into artistic expression. His work is not only aesthetically powerful but also a critical commentary on our data-driven age.

What to expect:

• An explosion of color and composition: glitch art like you’ve never seen before
• Pioneering digital art, where AI and technology are used as creative tools
• Szauder’s long-awaited debut book, featuring his most famous and shared artworks

About the author:

David Szauder is a Hungarian visual artist based in Berlin. With a background in visual programming and generative art, his work explores themes such as memory, identity, and human-machine interaction. His digital artworks – often based on deliberately generated glitches – have been exhibited internationally and are considered groundbreaking within modern digital visual language.

Time Machines, Iconic Watches and their Era
Authors: gestalten, Blake Z. Rong & Sean Paul Lorentzen

A visual journey through the history of watches that defined time and style
• 100 legendary watches from 1900 to the present
• From technical innovations to design icons: discover how timepieces have shaped our culture
• For lovers of watchmaking art, history, and design

In Time Machines, the evolution of the wristwatch takes center stage, from functional instrument to cultural icon. This beautifully illustrated coffee table book tells the story of 100 iconic watches that not only mark time but also reflect technological revolutions, aesthetic trends, and societal shifts. Each watch highlights a special moment in history where design, craftsmanship, and innovation converge.

Chronologically structured, this photo book takes you from the pioneering years of the 20th century to contemporary classics. You will discover how leading watch brands, master watchmakers, and groundbreaking techniques have forever changed the way we experience time.

What to expect:

• A carefully curated selection of 100 iconic watches, from vintage classics to modern masterpieces
• Impressive photography that brings the finesse and craftsmanship of each timepiece to life
• Fascinating stories about the design, technology, and cultural significance behind each watch

About the authors:

Blake Z. Rong is an experienced writer with a passion for watches, design, and automotive history. His keen eye for style and detail is combined with the technical expertise of Sean Paul Lorentzen, an authority on watch mechanics and horology. Together, they offer a captivating glimpse into the world of watches, where technology, art, and human stories intertwine to create timeless narratives.

Designed to Stay, The Design Hotels™ Book
Authors: gestalten & Design Hotels™

More than a stay, a journey through the world's most beautiful design hotels.
• Explore 300+ unique hotels where architecture, culture, and experience merge
• An inspiring look at contemporary hospitality and interior design
• For lovers of travel, design, lifestyle, and architecture

Designed to Stay is a visual and substantive ode to the world of Design Hotels™, a global collection of over 300 independent hotels distinguished by innovative design, local embeddedness, and authentic hospitality. Each hotel is a creative masterpiece, designed by passionate hoteliers - the so-called Originals - who translate their personal vision into a unique place full of character.

Whether it's a hidden gem in the heart of a bustling metropolis or a secluded retreat in harmony with nature: each hotel tells its own story. In this coffee table book, you'll discover accommodation concepts that go beyond just spending the night. They invite connection, reflection, and discovery.

With breathtaking photography, inspiring stories, and sharp insights, Designed to Stay shows how contemporary hospitality is evolving into an art of experience, where aesthetics, emotion, and location converge.

What to expect:

• A carefully curated selection of Design Hotels™ worldwide, from urban hotspots to remote havens
• Impressive photography that brings the atmosphere, design, and character of each location to life
• Stories behind the hotels, focusing on architecture, culture, and the vision of the founders

About the authors:

Design Hotels™ has been a leading platform since 1993 for independent hotels that prioritize design and local culture. The collection now comprises over 300 hotels worldwide, from avant-garde city hotels in New York, Paris, and Tokyo to serene retreats on hidden beaches or mountaintops. Each hotel is a personal translation of the hotelier's vision, an ode to uniqueness, authenticity, and sensory experience. Together with publisher Gestalten, known for their visually powerful lifestyle books, they bundle their passion for travel, aesthetics, and meaningful hospitality in the photo book Designed to Stay.