Music & Design Books That Inspire

Wrensilva Standard One record console in Paradise Valley AZLibrary/Music Room Paradise Valley, AZ.  Model shown: Standard One 

Here at Wrensilva, design and music influences every decision we make. From where we spend our evenings (which spots have the best music), to how we strategically build our HiFi record consoles.
 Our love of books equals our passion for music and design. We are constantly on the search for visual, enlightening and educational books to draw inspiration from. Here is a quick roundup of a few of our faves.

David Bowie Is on the Wrensilva BlogDavid Bowie IS by Victoria Broakes

Bowie. The name itself causes one’s mind to bring forth a range of emotions. David Bowie Is, a book that was published parallel to the international exhibition at London’s Victoria and Albert Museum, is the only book with full access to Bowie’s personal archives. It is a masterful blend of insight and imagery that you will never tire of reading.

vinyl cover album art on wrensilva blogVinyl. Album. Cover. Art. The Complete Hipgnosis Catalogue

In Vinyl. Album. Cover. Art. Hipgnosis co-founder Aubrey Powell unveils a collection of never-before-seen album covers from some of the biggest names in history ranging from The Police and The Who, to Black Sabbath and Led Zeppelin. Hipgnosis’ graphic design was way ahead of its time and created artwork that is adorned on the walls of many music lovers, including our own.

design of everyday things on wrensilva blogThe Design of Everyday Things

Good design should be intuitive and simple.  Creating it is challenging. We face this everyday at Wrensilva as we work to build the ultimate in design and audio. This book puts a spotlight on the importance of good design of everyday things– light switches, sliding doors, oven burners – and provides inspiration for mastering the blend of creativity with necessity.

the soul of a tree nakashima on wrensilva blogThe Soul of a Tree: A Master Woodworker's Reflections

The Soul of a Tree, written by George Nakashima, icon to woodworkers worldwide is an ode to our craft.  A meditation on woodworking, honoring nature’s gifts, and how we can lend a second life to wood through thoughtful use. The Soul of a Tree is one man’s reflection on what is so gratifying about the non-glamorous pursuit of building with one's hands.

the art spirit robert henri on wrensilva blogThe Art Spirit by Robert Henri

Robert Henri, founding member of The Ashcan School, provides an in-depth look into the enduring power of art. The Art Spirit offers both technical and spiritual advice surrounding the importance of creating. “Those who express even a little of themselves never become old-fashioned.”

life keith richards on wrensilva blogLife: Keith Richards 

Keith Richards’ autobiography offers an up-close and personal look into the ultimate rock n roll lifestyle. A phenomenal read that chronicles Richards incredible life; from first meeting Mick Jagger and the Rolling Stones fame, to addiction and love, and all the crazy stories in between.

handmade music factory on wrensilva blogHandmade Music Factory: The Ultimate Guide to Making Foot-Stompin Good Instruments

Anyone can make music, maybe not always good music…but Handmade Music Factory offers an awesome conversation starter if not a band starter.  Everyone wishes they had their own jug band, right? This book gives step-by-step guides to how to build a one-string guitar, banjos and more.

the dot peter h reynolds on wrensilva blogThe Dot by Peter H. Reynolds

Although Peter H. Reynolds The Dot is categorized as a ‘children’s book,’ this tale teaches us all the power of creativity and how anyone can make their mark.