White

Shiro by Kenya Hara is a masterpiece. It’s not often that I come by a book that is so true to its core ethos in both form and message. From the textured white in the title, the pure white on the first page and the printed white within the pages; Hara has put an amazing amount of meticulous detail into making the act of reading his book such a physically and mentally enjoyable experience. He has, in his own words, mastered the art of “controlling differences” at its most visceral form. Aside from strictly the architecture of his work, Hara does a great job of explaining what makes “white” so amazing- particularly to designers. The creative individual, Hara argues, looks at the empty bowl as a powerful thing. Rather than having no use, it is great in its potential to be filled with something. White represents this potential power found in emptiness that designers need to understand and appreciate in order to use to its fullest magnitude. Throughout the book, Hara often makes comparisons to Japanese culture and mythology which adds even deeper layers to the story of white. Coming out the end of it, I can’t see white- or emptiness- in the same way I did before. And for that, this is easily a 12/10.

This is just one of the best design books ever... it talks about a design philosophy that kenya hara has and use for his work, you really must get it! you won't regret it! i have many books of design but none talks about the most important and basic knowledge in design, about the color white, as design element not as a color is pretty interesting.

Great meditative read. It is short, and philosophical. Definitely worth it.

Too often, the author mentions images or examples of calligraphy without illustrating them. All the reader is left with is words -- which is okay in some instances -- but the content would have been improved if the book included illustrations that the author uses as examples. Not everything he references is common knowledge.

A personal meditation on the color and feeling of white, Hara's work is a series of overlapping observations that build to a whole. This is not a measured study of the topic--if you're looking for that this short book is not for you. If you are interested in Japanese culture as viewed through the concept of whiteness, this book is for you. This is high-quality Lars Muller fare.

Short, thought provoking, and beautifully designed - my favorite kind of book. As a graphic designer, I enjoyed this.

Simple book, mind triggering. I like his books!

Good overview of why white space in a design is so crucial to a great design. The new angle it taught me about was how empty space invites us to fill it and encourages creativity.

Absolutely great book, and beautiful edition! If you‘re into design and philosophy, the concept of emptiness in Japanese culture will blow your mind.

Per chiunque voglia capire qualcosa del design giapponese, della concezione del vuoto e per chi vuole uscire dai soliti schemi della cultura occidentali e immergersi in un mondo di eleganza e leggerezza.

the content and the design of the book is just awesome. no need to say it. I'm happy with my purchase its on time and good quality.

I am a visual artist and found this book to be a fascinating read.

Kenya Hara is my favorite designer, his books helped and taught me a lot