From Trash to Treasure — Maddie Philhower

From Trash to Treasure: Unpacking Hoarding Through Book Design

2025
Indesign, Illustrator, Photoshop
Solo Project

As someone whose family has been deeply impacted by hoarding, I constantly search for ways to better understand my grandma and mother’s childhood.
Hoarding is a complex and highly misunderstood mental illness, afflicting 5-6% of the population. Through this book, I want readers to gain a deeper sense of understanding and empathy for those who hoard. “From Trash To Treasure” is a 50 page hand bound book composed of curated articles and excerpts exploring the roots and impacts of hoarding.

Before 2022, my grandparents refused to allow anyone, including family members, inside their home for nearly twenty years due to their expanding hoard. Documenting their home and exploring the roots of hoarding through this project became an essential step in understanding my grandmother’s world.

Designing and physically binding a book taught me the importance of experimentation. Through exploring different typefaces, refining visual balance, and creating breathing room, I learned that the key to creating a book that drew people in was thoughtful design choices shape a book’s tone and reading experience. The hands-on binding process deepened my appreciation for the complexity craftsmanship of book design.

Thanks to my mom for being a wonderful interviewee and point person for all of my questions while creating this book.