Established in the 18th century, the Shakers were a Christian community that embraced principles of social equality, communal property and pacifism, viewing labor and design as crucial expressions of their faith. The Shakers’ radically simple, functional objects have had a profound influence on modern design, inspiring generations of artists, architects and designers up to the present day.

The Shakers: A World in the Making accompanies the eponymous exhibition—designed by Milan-based studio Formafantasma, and scheduled for the Vitra Design Museum, the Milwaukee Art Museum and the Institute of Contemporary Art Philadelphia. The volume showcases a wide range of Shaker furniture, architecture, tools and commercial goods. Works by contemporary artists and designers, including Chris Halstrøm, Christien Meindertsma and Kameelah Janan Rasheed, enter into dialogue with the historic exhibits, reflecting on the Shakers’ enduring relevance. 

The publication includes a rich array of thematic essays contextualizing the Shakers within the wider design, architecture and art canon, detailed studies of selected exhibits as well as personal insights by the contributing artist. Contemporary object and architectural photography offers a fresh perspective on one of the most compelling communal experiments of recent centuries.

Designed by A Practice for Everyday Life

Published by the Vitra Design Museum, 2025

Hardcover, 284 pages with 190 color images, 8.5 × 11 inches

ISBN: 978-3-94-585266-8