The visual impression of the book, Light Years, is immediately striking and has a very appealing visual design. When I saw this book on the shelf, my eye was immediately attracted to it, I have truly never seen another book quite like it. The design on the binding and the patterns on the outer edges of the pages is so interesting and unique, including a scale of colors in order of hues. The physical nature design and pattern of the outer binding is by far the most interesting element of the appearance of this book, in my opinion. There is also a large variation in the type, and size of text that is included within the binding, and use of metallic colors, which is also visually appealing.

The physical nature of the book is rather distinct is comparison to a more simplistically designed book. The size of the book itself is very close to a square, measuring approximately eight inches by nine inches. It is a rather unusual size, given its dimensions, while the book is rather thick. The weight of the book is rather heavy, but given that it is not a hard-back book. In regard to the senses that surround this book, its look, and touch are very distinct. Touching the book, the weight and density of the text itself is the first thing that I became aware of. The texture of the pages are slightly rough, and are printed on a more matte finish. There is a slightly grainy appearance to the photos, given that they are printed on this paper.  The unique appearance and sight of the book, is truly appealing to the senses, as it was the first sense that I was able to identify upon my first interaction with the book. The pages are vibrant in color, and their composition, along with the strong use of contrast within their design, The smell of the book reminds me of older, more dated texts, and has a mustier smell.

There are many interesting elements about the design of this book. First of all, the design of the cover is rather bold, including no text, and a large colorful circle symbol in the middle of a white cover. The back of the book also includes this same design, having no text present, only what is included along the binding. The most interesting element of the design of this book, is the lack of text, and the larger emphasis placed on the photography and typography that is included within this book. The layout of the book is also an interesting design element of the way the information is organized. The right side of the pages, where the patterned edge is, is a timeline of dates ranging from 1950 to 2000. Each year that is included within this timeline corresponds to an individual color, correlating with the different designs of lighting for each year. The layout is also presented in a way that organizes each category, given the main design element that is included within each photograph spread. For example, the words, “Lighting Assembly” are present at the first page of a spread discussing information and facts about the assembly in the lighting design industry. This organization and inclusion of bold type preceding the information and pages to follow, helps to present create a sense of sequence within the book.

This book is a part of this collection, given its unique design, emphasis on typography and photography, and its original structure and layout. There are not many books similar to this one, given its unique approach to the world and history of lighting design, and its creative take on the graphic design that is included within the book. As you turn each page, a new surprise awaits, filled with amazing photos, and a graceful use of typography and graphics. This book is valued for its individuality, typography, and photography, which are all combined together to create a very unique text. This book was published in 2000, by Zumtobel, a world-renowned lighting company, the book highlights many projects of the firm, the history, and the culture of lighting design. It includes interviews with designers about projects, photography of many projects, testimonials, and other information.

In the 2000s, Graphic design took off in regard to the technology that was used to create it, as the Digital Revolution was occurring during this time. Digital design was becoming more popular, as computers were being used for creation, instead of things being done completely by hand. This book highlights this innovation, demonstrating digital designs. This book was designed by Irma Boom, a Dutch graphic designer who was often described as the “Queen of Books”, and has designed over three hundred books. This book is the only book that was included in this series by Boom, making it very rare for its kind. However, Boom was a very successful book designer, and went on to design many other projects. Boom was born in Amsterdam, and was awarded the Gutenberg Prize for her contribution to the design world. She is also featured in the MOMA, and has a very prestigious body of work.

This book fits into Graphic design as a history, in that it provides a physical document that provides a historical reference to this era, and the design trends that were present during this time. As designers have been able to look back upon texts from previous times, this book will provide insight for future generations as to what was popular in the design world during the time it was created.

Overall, Light Years published by Zumtobel, is a revolutionary book for its time. Its design, layout, and overall structure is truly unique, and a very creative way to display information, past projects, and a historical reference of such a world-renowned company. Not only is this book a reference for this individual company, but it provides a look at the trends in design at this time, and for years to come

http://www.nytimes.com/2010/08/09/arts/09iht-DESIGN9.htmlhttps://www.typotheque.com/authors/irma_boomhttp://www.tiki-toki.com/timeline/entry/302294/History-of-Graphic-Design-Timeline/#vars!date=0580-02-21_15:00:53!