Enhancing the design process at Thames & Hudson

Brand Strategy

Design Research

The challenge

Reviewing & improving design output with customer insights

Publisher Thames & Hudson has long been known for its illustrated books on art and visual culture. In the face of increasing competition, they tasked us with helping them accelerate their design effectiveness.

The approach

Competitor research, consumer insights & targeted recommendations

We kickstarted the design review by benchmarking the company’s output against its competitors with an external panel of design influencers. We then gathered consumer insights – through a survey of book buyers and through ethnographic research to explore how illustrated books are purchased, read and displayed in people’s homes. We also looked at the company’s design processes. Our final recommendations incorporated a set of plans to empower Thames & Hudson to transform its design approach.

The impact

Design review implemented

New processes embedded to nurture design effectiveness and innovative book design.
Design team energised

Staff now fully aligned with new design approach.
Design output strengthened

Now a contributor to business success.

Key contact

Craig Fallowfield-Tomkins

Service & Experience Director

Originally trained in industrial and transport design, Craig graduated from the Royal College of Art with a Masters in Service Design.

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