Design in Steel

The 20th century was the age of steel. Today, steel is ubiquitous and, as a result, frequently taken for granted. Not only is it the material of choice for 75 percent of all domestic appliances -- from toasters to washing machines -- but it is fast replacing luxury metals such as silver, particularly in cutlery and tableware. Household objects in steel from internationally renowned firms such as Alessi are set to become tomorrow's heirlooms. Time and again designers are choosing steel because it is long-lasting, scratch-resistant, corrosion-resistant and requires no painting. Above all, it sparkles.

Showcasing more than 100 high-design products from around the world, this is the first book to celebrate contemporary design in steel. Organized by designer or manufacturer, and featuring work by well-known and lesser known names alike, it is as much a survey of current design thinking as it is a book about steel. Products include furniture, kitchenware, tableware, bathroom fittings, lighting, desk accessories, even textiles. Full technical details as well as personal comments from the designers themselves accompany color photographs of each product.

Inspirational, informative and engagingly written, Design in Steel will fascinate professional designers, students and design-conscious consumers everywhere.