Customer Reviews

The Ice Palace That Melted Away: Restoring Civility and Other Lost Virtues to Everyday Life

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This book is for any designer who believes our craft is about more than making a better product...but also a better way of life. How do we improve the level of spiritual experiences that connect between a companys products or architecture and the human beings who use them. One example that Stumpf brings up is the experiences we have on airplanes. Plane travel is usually a very tiring experience for most travellers. But why does it have to be that way? A plane brings us so much closer to the sky that it might be enjoyable if telescopes were hooked up so that people can do some star gazing etc. My first reaction was "Yeah Right" to many of the examples that Stumpf illustrated. But on second thought I began to realize that Stumpfs thinking is exactly what we need in todays commercial industry. Products and services these days are created only for profit but advertised as if they will improve our quality of life. And maybe they do. But Stumpf is talking about a more spiritual "Quality of Life." The kind that gives a person memories. The kind that makes a person connect as a human being with all the creations we impose upon society. What I admire most about the book is that it dares to be optimistic. I can't say that all of the ideas mentioned in here are practical...but so what? The idea, I believe, is to get designers and architects to put more heart into their creations. To consider the spiritual functions of what we do...and not just the marketing functions. This book, I say, is a good read. Take your time reading it. Read it during a quiet rainy day while drinking some coffee. Enjoy the experience (hint. hint)

Very inspiring, full of perspective on the world of 'things' that surround us. A quick read that takes us through very profoud territory. A must for any one that is interested in understanding the way we receive products and social standards into our lives. It fully lives up to its sub title.

I liked Mr. Stumpf's sense of humor. His reflections on our current social design standards were amusing as well as depressing. A dry read which moistened towards the end.

Excellent working with seller, but shipping was slow; should have told buyer how the item was being shipped and how long. Would recommend business with this seller.