8vo - Mark Holt

Founded in London in 1984 by Mark Holt, Simon Johnston, and Hamish Muir, 8vo was one of the most influential design studios in the 1980s and continues to be significant in the design world today. The design studio used traditional, craft-based working methods but an experimental approach to design in order to anticipate the computer-aided aesthetic of the 90s. The magazine Octavo, published in eight issues from 1986 to 1992 has long held cult status and is thoroughly documented here, along with the background against which it emerged. 8vo's work pushed back the boundaries of commercial design, and was a key factor in preparing the way for many contemporary designers. Designed and written by two of the studio's partners, this attractive, chunky-format book will be a delight to students and practioners of architecture, design, and art alike.