"Heywood Wakefield" by Harris Gertz offers readers a comprehensive and captivating look into the iconic mid-century modern furniture company of the same name. This book not only delves into the history and design principles of Heywood Wakefield but also explores its cultural impact, making it a fascinating read for enthusiasts and collectors alike.
Gertz begins by tracing the origins of Heywood Wakefield, highlighting how the company emerged as a leader in the furniture industry during the early 20th century. He expertly discusses the key design elements that make Heywood Wakefield furniture so distinctive, showcasing their use of solid wood and incorporation of sleek curves and angles.
One of the standout features of this book is the level of detail provided when discussing specific furniture pieces. Gertz offers descriptions and photographs of a wide range of Heywood Wakefield items, including dining sets and dressers. This allows readers to truly appreciate the craftsmanship and beauty of these pieces. The book also offers valuable insights for collectors, with tips for identifying authentic Heywood Wakefield furniture and information on the value of certain pieces.
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In addition to its design legacy, Gertz explores the cultural impact of Heywood Wakefield. He illustrates how the brand's furniture became a symbol of mid-century modern aesthetics and influenced other designers and manufacturers in the industry. The book also sheds light on the challenges and changes that Heywood Wakefield faced over the years, providing a well-rounded view of the company's history.
Overall, "Heywood Wakefield" by Harris Gertz is a visually appealing and informative book that celebrates the legacy of this influential furniture company. Its exploration of the company's history, design principles, and cultural impact make it a must-read for anyone interested in mid-century modern design or furniture collecting.
What are readers saying?
Heywood Wakefield by Harris Gertz has received a range of reviews from readers, with opinions divided on various aspects of the book. The story follows Heywood Wakefield, a young man facing challenges during the mid-20th century in the American Midwest.
Some readers praised the book for its vivid and descriptive storytelling, finding Gertz's writing style engaging and enabling them to emotionally connect with the characters. The historical accuracy also contributed to the story's authenticity, immersing readers in the setting.
However, some readers expressed disappointment with the book. They felt the pacing was slow, making it difficult to stay engaged, and that the characters lacked depth. The narrative was also criticized for being disjointed at times, making it challenging to follow the plot.
The use of dialogue received mixed feedback from readers. Some found it well-crafted and believable, enhancing their understanding of the characters and their relationships. Others, however, felt the dialogue was unnatural, detracting from their enjoyment of the story.
The exploration of themes in the book generated different opinions as well. Some readers found the themes of identity, family, and societal changes thought-provoking, appreciating the deeper meaning Gertz conveyed. Others, however, believed these themes were underdeveloped and lacked depth, leaving them unsatisfied.
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