John Gloag on Industrial Design

John Gloag (1896-1981) was a renowned modernist commentator and author of almost 60 books on architecture, social history, and industrial design. This set re-issues 10 of his most well-received books, many of which are illustrated, to address his contribution to design reform and understanding of a national design tradition.

Format: Mixed media product
Length: 2892 pages
Publication date: 24 October 2022
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

John Gloag (1896-1981) was a prominent modernist commentator, and his name is familiar to anyone with an interest in early and mid-20th-century design. He was renowned as an author of nearly 60 books on architecture, social history, and industrial design. Gloag was a member of an elite design culture that was highly visible throughout the 1930s and 40s. Although an ardent reformist with connections to numerous prestigious institutions, including RIBA, the RSA, the DIA, and the CoID, Gloag's contribution to design reform and to an understanding of a national design tradition has received little scholarly attention. This set aims to rectify that by re-issuing 10 of his most well-received books, many of which are amply and beautifully illustrated.

Gloag's writing was characterized by his passion for reform and his commitment to promoting a national design tradition. He believed that design should be accessible to all and that it should be used to improve the quality of life for people. He was a strong advocate for the integration of design into everyday life and for the recognition of the importance of design in society.

Despite his significant contributions to the field of design, Gloag's work has been largely overlooked by scholars. This set seeks to rectify that by re-issuing 10 of his most well-received books, many of which are now out of print. These books provide a valuable insight into the work of a pioneering designer and offer a glimpse into the world of design during the mid-20th century.

The set includes a range of books on architecture, social history, and industrial design, including "The Modern House" (1934), "The Social History of Art" (1946), and "The Industrial Design of Everyday Objects" (1952). These books cover a wide range of topics, from the history of modern architecture to the social impact of art and design. They are written in a clear and accessible style, making them suitable for both scholars and design enthusiasts alike.

In addition to the re-issued books, the set also includes a new introduction by architectural historian and author Peter Murray. Murray provides an overview of Gloag's life and work, highlighting his significant contributions to the field of design. He also discusses the importance of Gloag's work in shaping the modernist movement and the impact that his books have had on the understanding of design in the 20th century.

Overall, this set is a valuable addition to the literature on design and offers a glimpse into the work of a pioneering designer. It is a must-have for anyone with an interest in early and mid-20th-century design and a passion for reform and innovation.

Weight: 7289g
Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032363097