Monday, June 22, 2020

Book Review: Mr. Waffles Loves Design by Lisa S Roberts


When noted design collector and published author Lisa S. Roberts discovered her new shelter cat climbing, jumping, rubbing and sleeping on her contemporary furniture and products, rather than freaking out, she began snapping photos. This became the inspiration for this whimsical and lavishly illustrated book.

Mr. Waffles, a sleek black Burmese cat, offsets the bright colorful designs by world-famous architects and designers. Each spread includes original photography of cat and design, a brief informative description, and a humorous observation or comment by critic Mr. Waffles. This feline doesn't just see a chair; he sees a potential scratching post, lap or jungle gym. His curiosity amuses throughout as he tips over trashcans, sniffs toilet brushes, poses in chairs, plays chess, and sits on top of a circular bookshelf. 

MR WAFFLES LOVES DESIGN traces the inspiration behind many iconic designs such as the Bouroullec brothers Vegetal chair inspired by tree branches and Patricia Urquiola's Antibodi chair that looks like a bed of flowers. Other designers look to the universe for inspiration with pieces like Michele de Lucchi's First Chair that resembles the solar system or Moon Chair by Tokujin Yoshioka that has the iridescent quality of the moon. Some designers incorporate a playful element. Naoto Fukasawa s Plus Minus Zero humidifier resembles a glazed doughnut and Byron Glaser and Sandra Higashi created Zolo, a child/adult toy that looks like Mr. Potato Head on steroids. Design just got a whole lot more entertaining with Mr. Waffles leading the way.


We've all been spending more time at home with our cats over the past few months. One of my favorite cat quotes is by Jean Cocteau, I love cats because I enjoy my home; and little by little, they become its visible soul.  During times like these it's more important than ever to surround ourselves with things that bring us joy, and it's no secret that I'm a collector at heart, which is why I found so much enjoyment in the concept for this book. Author Lisa Roberts has a large collection of unique, valuable pieces of contemporary design, but instead of fearing her cat Mr. Waffles would do harm to something, she celebrated his enjoyment of the collection by chronicling his observations through lush photography and cute commentary. The result is a feast for the eyes whether you're a fan of art in the feline or furnishings form!


Lisa S. Roberts has written two previous books, Antiques of the Future and DesignPop. Additionally she was featured on a TV series that sold internationally called “My Design Life.” Find her online at mydesignlife.com and follow Mr. Waffles on Instagram at @mrwaffleslovesdesign.


I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. This post contains affiliate links.

13 comments:

Mickey's Musings said...

We like that quote too :)
We also think that book sounds interesting as it combines art and cats!
Purrs,Georgia and Julie

Lola The Rescued Cat said...

We've heard about this book! Now our mom just has to read it!

The Florida Furkids said...

That sounds like an interesting book.

The Florida Furkids

Catscue Cat Mom said...

I love, love, love that bookshelf!

Eastside Cats said...

Our cats are all over our furniture too, but my photos don't look this good...hahahahahaha!

World of Animals, Inc said...

Thanks for sharing this wonderful sounding book with us. We just love the idea of letting Mr. Waffles explore and see the enjoyment he gets out of it and take photos also. Wow, what a great book. Have a great day and love this post.
World of Animals

Brian's Home Blog said...

That sounds good and we do like that bookshelf too!

Fiona L. Woods said...

Sounds like a great read for while we're staying home. Love the bookcase. Does the cat come with it?

Hairballsandhissyfits.com said...

Art! Felines! Furnishing! Sounds like an amazing read! Amazing quote too!

pilch92 said...

That is on my to read list.

Three Chatty Cats said...

That book sounds so interesting! And I love that quote by Cocteau.

Momma Kat and Her Bear Cat said...

Bear certainly thinks he's in charge of design around here! This book sounds like a must read! Thinking of your Dad too and hoping he's doing okay.

The Menagerie Mom said...

This sounds like such an intriguing and unique book, and Mr. Waffles sounds like such a fun little guy. Thank you for sharing this with us!