The iconic Brooks leather saddle, designed in Italy and produced at their factory in Birmingham is at the center of the design of Brooks’ first and only brand book. The production process of pattern cutting the hide to carefully moulding it into a saddle form, is immediately recognisable on the cover and is taken through to the inside of the publication with die cut circular punches echoing the three iconic holes.

We art directed all contributions, exploring the brand’s fascinating story. Martin Parr visited the factory, Laura Quick created beautifully witty illustrations, Geoff Dyer selected arresting photographs from the archives at Magnum and Antony Cairns photographed British-invented products such as the kettle or the humble toothbrush.

The first section features a selection from the treasure trove that is the Brooks archive, printed in duo-tone using a metallic copper. We created a unique display typeface for the title and all headlines.