Francesca Mangiaracina, Designer in London, UK

Overview

I am a book and editorial designer specialising in high-end, bespoke publications for publishers, brands, and authors who care about quality, storytelling, and craft.

I design books as reading experiences, not just layouts. My work focuses on structure, pacing, hierarchy, and typography to ensure content is clear, engaging, and memorable. Whether it is a coffee-table book, an illustrated title, or a long-form publication, I approach every project with the same level of precision and care, from concept to print.

I work across both design and production, with a strong background in typesetting, editorial systems, and print processes. I also offer bespoke hand-binding for special editions and collector’s runs, giving clients the option to create truly unique physical objects.

Clients work with me because they want more than a good-looking book. They want a publication that enhances their story, elevates their brand, and stands the test of time.

If you are looking for a designer who understands books inside out and treats your project with the seriousness it deserves, we will work well together.

Services

Cover Design

Book Interior Design

Production Management

Non-Fiction

Biographies & Memoirs Business & Management Cooking, Food, Wine, & Spirits History Religion & Spirituality

Languages

English

Awards

Smallish Design Award 2015 — Family CookBook Highly Commended

Certifications

MA Book Design at Reading University
MA Communication Design, Polytechnic of Milan
BA Textile and Product Design, Poly technic of Milan

Work experience

Independent Book Designer

Self-employed

Apr, 2016 — Present

As an independent creative I cover all aspects of Book Design: • Cover Design • Text Design • Layout Design • Infographic and data visualisation • Typesetting • Artworking for print and digital (including photoretouching) • Bookbinding • Project Management I carry through every project from inception through to print. My client list include: Penguin Random House, The British Library, Head of Zeus and GrubStreet Publishing.

Academic Tutor - Magazine Design

University of Reading

Sep, 2023 — Nov, 2025 (about 2 years)

* Guided students through principles of editorial design and visual storytelling * Shared industry insights and practical applications of typography systems * Facilitated hands-on workshops in design methodology * Mentor students in developing their creative projects

D&AD Judge - Book Design Category

D&AD

Apr, 2022 — May, 2022 (about 1 month)

• Selected as jury member for my extensive expertise in book design combined with bookbinding • Collaborated with international design experts to recognize outstanding work in book design (2022) • Evaluated and assessed submissions across various book design subcategories • Provided expert critique on craftsmanship, innovation, and design excellence

Book Designer

Grubstreet Publishing

Apr, 2021 — Jul, 2021 (3 months)

Designed covers and interiors, including typesetting for non-fiction Military and Cookery titles.

Senior Graphic Designer

Interstate Creative partners

Feb, 2014 — May, 2015 (about 1 year)

• I was in charge of the interior design and typesetting of the book 5 O’clock Apron by Claire Thomson from concept to the final stage as well as overseeing the photo-shooting, ensuring continuity with the internal layout published by Ebury Publishing. • I supported the creative team in designing the BBC Good Food cover series. • I designed, and art directed a variety of projects from concept stage to completion, on schedule, cost-effectively ensuring high-quality standards. • I led a high creative input to the team and managed 2 Junior Designers. • I acted as the main point of contact for clients and suppliers exceeding expectations.

Mid-weight graphic Designer

Straightedge

Aug, 2012 — Feb, 2014 (over 1 year)

• I developed my projects as a brand guardian supporting the Creative Director in producing print and digital materials • I negotiated directly with suppliers, paper merchants and printers • I worked also for other clients on an ad hoc basis

In-house Graphic Designer

Cushman & Wakefield

Jul, 2011 — Aug, 2012 (about 1 year)

• I provided complete design support to the Business Development Managers team designing engaging visual Bid/Proposal documents from start to finish, including typesetting, data visualisation and post-production, that brought new business to the company from high-profile clients such as BA and GSK. • I set up on my initiative of a complete internal library of supporting materials along with a database of suppliers which improved the creative department organisation. • I was the sole responsible for articulating creative ideas for external, internal and online communication ensuring brand equity. • I was responsible for the production and post-production support, delivering a high level of service in a high-pressure, deadline-driven environment.