6 Indie Publishers for Ultimate Design Inspo

posted by Si Cunningham June 1, 2020

Whether you’re a pro graphic designer, or someone who’s just discovered obscure BBC4 documentaries about typefaces in the absence of Love Island, you can never have too many design books lying around. This selection of independent publishers produce books that help us understand the history and heritage of great design, but also provide a hearty dose of inspiration too.

Bug News NetworkTokyo-based BNN produces books dedicated to design, computing and craft – many of which can be seen brightening up the shelves of indie bookshops around the UK. The books are a mix of instructional and inspirational – perfect if you’re struggling with your 38th infographic of the week.

HeyEverything on Hey’s website looks delicious. The small Barcelona graphic design studio has an eclectic range of clients from Uniqlo to the Mayor of London, but puts huge emphasis on the importance of side-projects such as publish its own books. Hey’s Design & Illustration book is a bible of problem-solving and creative inspiration.

D&B BooksD&B specialise in graphic design books, and take inspiration from the explosion of other small presses around the UK. In 2016 D&B published a coveted new version of Edward Johnson’s legendary 1917 publication – Writing & Illuminating & Lettering. The updated book was published to celebrate the 100th anniversary of Johnson’s iconic London Underground designs.

Atelier ÉditionsAtelier is an independent publishing house and creative consultancy renowned for its forensic explorations of art and graphic design. It’s Atlas of Rare and Familiar Colour made headlines in 2018 when it unearthed the secrets behind some of the world’s most famous colours.

Actual SourceAs well as knocking out a nice range of socks, Actual Source is an independent publisher famed for its expertise in design and typography. Its biannual – Shoplifters – is a visual treat, with every edition changing in layout and design to keep readers surprised and delighted.

Counter-PrintIf you’re looking to fill some shelves in your studio or office, Counter-Print is an incredible resource for design and lifestyle books. Originally established as a bookshop, Counter-Print now publish their own sought-after works, including guides to modern heraldry and design snapshots from all around the world.