Agata Toromanoff – författare

The 1990s Fashion Book is a tribute to the unique fashion of that time. Flashy, colourful, casual and sexy, these were the attributes that applied back then. Top models, hip-hoppers or pop groups like Take That and the Spice Girls exemplified a fashion style that triggered a boom all over the world.It is fair to say that, in retrospect, hardly any other decade has had such a formative effect on modern times as the 1990s. It is considered a decade of revolution, in which almost everything that had existed before changed at breakneck speed. This is when ground-breaking technologies such as the internet or nationwide mobile telephony came into being, without which our lives today would be unimaginable.Modern pop culture and current fashion design originate to a large extent from the cradle of the '90s. Sub-trends of the time such as grunge, hip-hop, minimalism, casual chic and deconstructivism are, in retrospect, what continues to have an impact today.Text in English and German.

A journey through 80 iconic objects that defined the spirit, style, and innovation of the 1980s. Iconic Objects of the 1980s: 80 Cult Designs is a vibrant and richly illustrated retrospective that celebrates the bold energy and unmistakable style of one of history’s most unforgettable decades. Through eighty objects that range from Walkmans and BMX bikes to shoulder pads and floppy disks, this book explores how innovation, creativity, and a sense of fun shaped the everyday experiences of the 1980s. Each entry combines evocative photography with cultural and historical commentary, providing insight into how these objects reflected—and influenced—the era’s attitudes in entertainment, fashion, technology, design, and beyond. With chapters organized by theme and decade-defining anecdotes throughout, this guide offers a playful but informed lens through which to explore the past. Whether you lived through the decade or are discovering it anew, this book brings the 1980s back to life in vivid, unforgettable detail. Key Features: • Profiles eighty iconic objects that defined the 1980s across categories including sports, fashion, toys, tech, and design• Includes pop culture milestones such as VHS tapes, Air Jordans, My Little Pony, Apple II computers, and the Game Boy• Each item is accompanied by striking full-color photography and engaging historical commentary• Organized thematically into 7 chapters for easy exploration: Sports & Entertainment, Fashion & Accessories, Everyday Objects, Technology, Toys, Furniture & Design, and Cars• Reveals the cultural significance and lasting legacy of each object, from household staples to trendsetting innovations• Features an introductory essay on the 1980s as a decade of exuberance, ambition, and global cultural shifts A must-have celebration of 1980s design, culture, and creativity—perfect for collectors, pop culture enthusiasts, designers, and nostalgic readers alike.

A photographed overview of 10 major innovations shaping the future of architecture. 10 Innovations That Will Shape Tomorrow’s Architecture explores the most significant breakthroughs redefining design and construction in the 21st century. Organized into 10 thematic chapters—ranging from 3-D printing and artificial intelligence to neuroarchitecture, biomaterials, weatherproofing, and biomimicry—the book presents visionary projects from around the world that address climate change, resource efficiency, and new social realities such as multigenerational living. Illustrated with cutting-edge examples, it captures how architects are responding to global challenges with creativity and resilience. Key Features: 10 thematic chapters covering transformative architectural innovationsCase studies from international projects and leading studiosFocus on sustainability, resilience, and climate-conscious designFull-color photography and visual documentation of conceptsExamples from both experimental research and real-world constructionA resource for professionals, students, and general readers, this volume reveals how architecture is adapting to create livable, sustainable, and imaginative environments for the future.

An exploration of 36 modern patio houses, highlighting theirarchitectural design and integration of interior and exterior spaces. Patio Living: Spaces Around the World That Blend Indoors and Outdoors examines 36 contemporary residential projects fromaround the world. The book features projects in Miami, Brooklyn,Melbourne, Oeiras, Portugal, and other international locations, showinghow patios provide light, privacy, and social-gathering spaces. Architectural insights reveal strategies for balancing public andprivate areas, augmenting residents' connection to nature, integrating natural materials, and creatingmultifunctional indoor-outdoor living. Photography emphasizes spatialrelationships, materials, and environmental design features. Fromcompact urban homes to expansive villas, each case study demonstrateshow patios become the heart of a residence, blending comfort,sustainability, and aesthetic elegance. Key Features: High-quality photography capturing interiors, exteriors, and courtyard spaces.Architectural analysis of patios as centers of light, privacy, and social interaction.Projects feature sustainable design using natural materials and environmentally conscious strategies.Discussion of methods for seamless integration of indoor and outdoor living areas.Discussion of the evolution of the patio from ancient Roman villas to modern courtyard-centered homes. Patio Living is an essential resource for architects, designers, and enthusiasts of contemporary residential architecture.

As many parents know, decorating and furnishing a child’s room can be both a pleasure and a problem: you have somehow to find a balance between practicality, playfulness, comfort, safety, originality and making the most of the space available. Some of the world’s best-known designers and design companies have risen to the challenge of creating furniture and accessories specifically for children. Rather than being merely scaled-down adult designs, the best designs for children should respond to their express needs: as well as being durable, safe and easy to clean, they should nurture a child’s development and encourage creativity and the use of imagination.This stylish book presents some 250 designs for children, both iconic pieces of furniture, furnishings and toys and more recent creations based on the latest technological advances. From Charles and Ray Eames, Eero Aarnio and Nanna Ditzel through to Marcel Wanders and Javier Mariscal, and from Knoll and Artek to Alessi, MDF Italia and Magis, the biggest names in design have produced beds, tables, chairs, storage, rugs, cutlery and playthings that can be used from children’s earliest days through to the start of adolescence. With a fresh, appealing layout, the book is divided into three main sections – furniture, accessories and toys – within which the designs are further arranged into such categories as cribs and cots, bookcases, mirrors, mobiles and rocking horses. Throughout, concise descriptions are accompanied by colourful and lively illustrations. Whether you are a style-conscious parent seeking ideas for a functional yet fun nursery, bedroom, playroom or study, a design professional or simply a fan of contemporary design, this is an enchanting

Japandi is the newest and hottest trend in interiors: a harmonious combination of functionality, comfort, and the minimalist look that characterizes Scandinavian design, with the purest elegance of traditional Japanese craftsmanship. Japandi harmoniously blends Scandinavian hygge with wabi-sabi, a concept derived from Zen Buddhism that advocates peaceful sobriety and invites us to admire the beauty hidden in slight imperfections in nature. This first major survey of Japandi style will introduce the reader to the fundamentals, and to iconic objects that will transform an interior into a Japandi-inspired retreat.Chapter one of the book examines the converging principles that have contributed to the emergence of Japandi Style such as functionality, neutral colors, the importance of organic materials, and the thoughtful simplicity of shapes. Chapter two presents some of the most emblematic works of Japandi Style, and the design studios behind them. Chapter three gives examples of how to decorate and furnish rooms - the living room, dining room, bedroom, bathroom, winter garden, or home office - in Japandi Style.

Historically, women architects were disappointingly absent in the news and at awards ceremonies, but now they are spearheading some of the most exciting and important projects in every corner of the globe. These profiles of fifty female architects bring to light some of those projects and highlight pioneering women architects. Each architect is introduced in double-page spreads that include a brief biography, an overview of her philosophy and vision, and stunning photographs of her most significant works. Interviews with several of the architects provide a global perspective on how women are changing the face of the world—including feminist icon, philanthropist, and Nigerian “starchitect” Olajumoke Adenowo; Tatiana Bilbao, who is leading the way in sustainable Mexican architecture; Rossana Hu, who is fighting to preserve Chinese village culture in her rapidly urbanizing country; and Elizabeth Diller, who created the High Line, one of New York City’s most beloved public spaces, and helped redesign the city’s Museum of Modern Art. This volume offers indisputable and inspiring evidence that the architectural profession is no longer just a man’s game.

Natural, renewable, reusable, and aesthetically pleasing, wood is the consummate building material. Thanks to incredible advances in both application and sustainability, it is being used across the world to create new and surprising styles. This exhilarating global survey features exquisite photography that captures a wide range of twenty-first century construction in residential, public, cultural, educational, commercial, and entertainment-related spaces. From the Mount Fuji World Heritage Center in Shizuoka, Japan and the Eystur Town Hall in the Faroe Islands to the College of Forestry at Oregon State University the newly completed Coarvematta National Theater High School in Norway, each building is featured in double-page spreads with lush color photographs that allow readers to appreciate timber’s intrinsic qualities against a variety of backgrounds, scales, and typologies. Plans and building specifications are accompanied by the latest developments in research and design. Eco-friendly and robust, timber’s applications are almost unlimited, extending to the tallest skyscrapers, and to every livable corner of our planet. This volume offers encouraging proof that architects around the world are responding to a climate crisis in ways that not only preserve the earth, but also provide pleasing environments in which to live, work, and play.

Filled with striking photography as well as design inspiration and hope for a better tomorrow, this beautifully designed volume profiles the work of a global selection of visionary architects who are reimagining our built world for the future.Driven by the desire to reduce environmental impact and reimagine the possibilities of their discipline, architects around the world are creating cutting-edge buildings that make use of the latest technologies while drawing from time-honored, traditional techniques and materials. This book profiles 75 of those pioneering architects in stunning double-page spreads that highlight their careers and their most relevant work. Divided into chapters on sustainable materials, energy efficiency, innovative technologies, architecture and greenery, and the repurposing of historical structures, this volume showcases groundbreaking examples envisioned by architects such as Anna Heringer, who employs local craftspeople and uses natural elements to create life-improving, harmonious structures; Finnish architect Pekka Littow, whose off-grid structures are both self-sufficient in their use of water and electricity and inspired by a deep-rooted connection to nature; and Shigeru Ban, who is noted for his use of unconventional building materials, such as paper and cardboard tubes. Works by Mario Cucinella, Koichi Takada, Heatherwick Studio and BIG, and other world-spanning architects, illuminate the latest accomplishments taking place at the nexus of technology, environmental sustainability, and groundbreaking innovation, at a crucial time for our planet.

"This comprehensive volume rounds up 500 showstopping examples of contemporary lighting design and dissects exactly what makes them so special." — Elle Decoration"A real treat for fans of good and effective lighting. There will be several hundred in it the most important models of modern design." — Viva! Poland"Within the pages of Sculpting Lights, an exquisite compilation awaits, showcasing the epitome of contemporary lamp design." — Indulge MagazineSculpting Light gathers the finest of modern lamp design in one volume. Whether chandeliers, pendants, or table lamps, whether sculptural or minimalist in design, they are exclusive decorative elements during the day and conjure up a very special atmosphere in the dark. Iconic examples are represented in the book as well as examples of bold experiments with forms and materials. Three types of light sources are presented: Ambient, Spotlight and Outdoor. Legendary designers reveal their sources of inspiration and personal favourites, and well-known manufacturers are presented in portraits.

What is it that makes our everyday life special? Beautiful moments, but also beautiful things. At least that's what art historian and author Agata Toromanoff believes, as she embarks on a quest for luxury objects that one doesn't typically come across. Toromanoff curates everyday items that have undergone a process of artification. They now serve as statement accessories that delight their owners anew every day, whether it's a golden paperclip or a crystal-adorned coffee mug. Luxury resides wherever the extraordinary finds its place.The photo book surprises with magnificent shots of exceptional designer objects that are not mere decorations, but also carry the intention of adornment alongside their practical function in everyday life. It undoubtedly elicits a sense of wonder from its readers. The objects featured in the high-quality photos stand out with their appealing product design, high quality, and the materials used. Agata Toromanoff enriches the opulent visual world of her book with informative texts and background knowledge about designers and designs.For those who love luxury, Everyday Luxury will undoubtedly be a source of inspiration and joy. As a high-quality gift, this book can convince through its uniqueness and creative approach to the concept of luxury.Text in English and German.

Product and interior designer Nika Zupanc became a globally recognised name with the launch of the Lolita lamp. Nika Zupanc works as an independent designer who is constantly involved in fresh projects that grow out of distinctive interpretations of modern culture, contemporary design, and the available technological options. Born in Slovenia, the top designer pours poetic disruption into the world of contemporary design. Her products and interior design projects challenge the rational, traditional, sober, and utilitarian by giving voice to the spontaneous, eclectic, and intimate. Her style has been often described as punk elegance (Elle USA) and techno chic (BusinessWeek) and Nika Zupanc has been crowned as a real star by The Wall Street Journal.

Architecture writer Agata Toromanoff introduces the Netherland’s 40 most influential contemporary architects and a selection of their most celebrated buildings in full colour photography. This volume showcases works from the most famous Dutch architect-designers such as Benthem Crouwel Architects, Mecanoo, MVRDV, OMA, UNStudio, atelier PRO architekten, LEVS architecten, Paul de Ruiter Architects and many more. Several pages are dedicated to each architect, outlining their influences and ideas and revealing the designs that have brought them fame. Discover the true extent of the creative achievements that lie within the careers of these architectural giants. Captivating biographies alongside breathtaking photos. A book that is both informative and beautiful.Text in English and Dutch.

Picturesque Scandinavian archipelagos and extra-long summer days create the perfect environment for dreamy homes. Summer houses that blend smoothly into their surroundings help us reconnect with and merge into nature. But even in the long, dark winters, these homes must be destined to withstand exceptional weather conditions. The main features of these houses are the abundance of light, large windows and free, minimalist interiors. This selection of 40 stunning houses defines a perfect summer escape for those Scandinavian days that seem to last forever and, at the same time, an ideal place to spend the long winter days.

"Neural networks do not understand what optical illusions are." - Technologyreview.com "Some pictures tell a thousand lies." - hplyrikz.com An optical illusion confuses the eye by pretending to be something it isn't. It both misleads and deceives the brain, which is trying to make sense of the information the eye is sending. This book presents a selection of brain-bending optical illusions featuring graphic art and photography by 60 artists, and includes an overview of the history of optical illusions in art.

This book features the best and most spectacular conversions on the international architecture scene, accompanied by an insightful text and photographs. It includes over 60 projects around the world, including work by Hassell + OMA, David Chipperfield, Heatherwick Studios, Ney + Partners, Herzog & de Meuron, Zaha Hadid and many others. The authorexplores how these architects creatively approached the conversions of older buildings, ultimately finding a new functionality and life for themin the 21st century.

In Curved: Bending Architecture, the author seeks out the most sensational contemporary buildings from around the world that incorporate wave-like, rounded forms into their design. Curved forms in architecture are found throughout history (like the Colosseum in Rome) but today’s constructions explore the curve to its utmost fluid and freeform potential. From Zaha Hadid to Bosjes Chapel and from Brussels to China, this is a selection of amazing buildings by world class architects who think outside the box and have redefined the built world around us.

"It's a great way to spark interesting conversations with friends and perfect entertainment if you're coffee-ing solo." — Real Homes"Fascinating new book reveals homes in vertigo-inducing locations, from a house clinging to a cliff to a gravity-defying mountain hideout."  — Daily MailIn Living on the Edge, the author goes in search of the most amazing and seemingly unfeasible buildings which are situated at the edge of deep chasms and on steep cliffs. These houses are the work of architects who approach complexity and difficult conditions with imagination and a talent for thinking outside of the box. This book shows how, with the help of innovative techniques, fear of heights-inducing homes have been built at the most challenging locations all over the world. Living on the Edge is a book for architecture lovers without fear of heights!

Architecture writer Agata Toromanoff introduces Belgium's 40 most influential contemporary architects and a selection of their most celebrated buildings in full colour photography. Belgian architects have been doing well for years and have international allure. This volume showcases works from the most famous Belgian architect-designers such as Vincent Van Duysen and EPRICUM to emerging architects such as Oyo Architects. Several pages are dedicated to each architect, outlining their influences and ideas and revealing the designs that have brought them fame. With this great reference work, you can discover the true extent of the creative achievements that lie within the careers of these architectural giants. Captivating biographies alongside breathtaking photos. A book that is both informative and beautiful.Text in English, Dutch and French.

Discover the hidden beauty of some 30 mountain cabins and their distinctive architecture in this captivating book. From cosy retreats nestled in the woods to modern structures perched on cliffsides, explore the unique and innovative designs that blend seamlessly into their rugged surroundings. Follow along as renowned architects share their visions and inspirations for creating mountain cabins that not only provide shelter but also enhance the natural beauty of the landscape. Stunning photographs showcase the details of each cabin, from the materials used to the panoramic views that greet visitors. Whether you're an architecture enthusiast or simply seeking inspiration for your next mountain retreat, this book has you covered. The selection includes cabins in both Europe & North America and has detailed information on the hiking trails located near each featured mountain cabin.

The 10 principles of good design set out by Dieter Rams in 1995 has influenced and inspired a new generation of designers in search of the perfect balance between practicality, simplicity and aesthetics.What does good design mean in the 21st century? How have the 10 principles influenced modern design? In this book, established and emerging designers tell us how they understand and put these rules into practice thereby contributing to the definition of what good design in the 21st century means, according to the criteria defined by Rams.The book showcases contemporary products from around the globe; a host of work by iconic designers, such as NENDO, NERI & HU, LARA BOHINC and so on.