When originally published in 1916, it was titled “Industrial Arts Design A Textbook of Practical Methods for Students, Teachers, and Craftsman.” In his original preface Varnum wrote [Industrial Arts Design] “is intended for individual student use in the High Schools, Normal Schools, and Colleges and as a reference book for elementary school teachers.” Varnum lays out  a simple step-by-step design process that is easily applied to all decorative arts objects and thus lends itself nicely to designing furniture. He sees the design process divided into three divisions, or phases, which he labels Structural Design, Coutour Enrichment, and Surface Enrichment. Varnum presents a series of “rules” through each phase, that if followed, will ensure good design.

The first five chapters are focused on Structural Design—establishing pleasing lines and proportions through the defining of masses and their subsequent division. I apply these philosophies to every piece I design. If you’re inspired by Greene & Greene cloud lifts, you’ll want to review Varnum’s thoughts on contour enrichment, because they are classical examples of it. Equally applicable, If you’re inspired by the inlays of Harvey Ellis, and want to include inlays in your furniture, you’ll want to read what Varnum’s says about surface enrichment. Finally, as mindful furniture designers we understand that a piece of furniture must be designed for the room, or environment it occupies. Ever wonder about the relationship between the color of your furniture, and its environment? Varnum discusses,and has rules for that too.