The best dutch book designs

Every year, the Stedelijk Museum and the Stichting De Best Verzorgde Boeken present the entries selected by a jury, submitted by publishers of their previous year’s publications. The Netherlands has a rich tradition of exceptional book design, known for innovative design, lithography, printing, and bookbinding. This selection celebrates the best of Dutch graphic design.

382 books were nominated in 2023. The panels of industry professionals and students each chose 33 books, with 12 books appearing on both lists. Each jury assessed the balance between concept and execution, and the design of the publications. What was striking about this selection is that designers used a lot of neutral and earth tones, and well-known, inexpensive processes such as one-color printing, the Singer stitch (which uses a single thread), binding without a cover, and low-cost paper stock. These choices often go hand in hand with environmentally friendly options, like using leftover or recycled paper.

To complement this year’s selection, the Stedelijk is also showing two works by the American artist Ed Ruscha which demonstrate the innovative binding techniques found in many of this year’s books: Every building on the sunset strip (1966) and Dutch details (1971).

The exhibition of The best dutch book designs has a long-standing tradition at the Stedelijk Museum. The inaugural presentation was mounted in 1932, after which the exhibition has been held annually, with a few exceptions. The best dutch book designs is the oldest contest of its kind in Europe to be judged by an expert jury.

Paul Kuipers designed the exhibition concept of The best dutch book designs. Most of the books are available in the museum store, along with the catalogues published especially for this exhibition. The best dutch book designs is generously supported by ASF, Pictoright Amsterdam, paper supplier Igepa Netherlands, Tiel and L. van Heek Textiles. BNO is a long-term partner.