This is the definitive reference book on the work of Dieter Rams. In his more than 40 years at Braun, Rams established himself as one of the most influential designers of the twentieth century. True to the principle of “less, but better,” his elegantly clear visual language not only defined product design for generations but also our fundamental understanding of what design is and what it can and should do. Less and More offers boundless inspiration for anyone interested in the aesthetic and functional aspects of applied design.

Published by Gestalten Less and More: The Design Ethos of Dieter Rams features images of hundreds of Rams’s products as well as his sketches and models—from Braun stereo systems and electric shavers to the chairs and shelving systems that he created for Vitsœ. In addition to the rich visual presentation of his designs, the book contains texts by international design experts that explain how the work was created, describe its timeless quality, and put it into a contemporary context.

If you are interested in minimalist design you can't miss the philosophy of Dieter Rams that is best summed up in the 10 principles of good design that he created more than thirty years ago.

The editors of this bible of design are professor Klaus Klemp and Keiko Ueki-Polet. Klemp is one of the world’s leading experts in the field of product design. He has been acquainted with Dieter Rams for many years and is an authority on his work. Ueki-Polet is one of Japan’s most renowned design curators. She is well acquainted with design developments in both Asia and the Western world.

Where to buy

• Ode to Things
• Gestalten