What is design? Design is not just about aesthetics or style. It is a complex process that intertwines functionality, utility, and innovation to meet specific needs. True design is found in objects that, while often overlooked in our daily lives, embody meticulous project work and functional depth that go far beyond their surface appearance.
When discussing design, the focus often shifts to spectacular, iconic creations by famous designers. However, the true essence of design lies in the simplest and seemingly mundane objects. These objects were not born out of fleeting fashion trends or predefined style ideas but from real necessity. It is their utility, not the name of their creator, that makes them indispensable and timeless.
Consider objects like the spoon, the chair, or the pencil. They are so integrated into our daily lives that we rarely stop to think about their design. Yet, each of these objects results from careful planning. The spoon, for example, has been refined over millennia to fit perfectly in the human hand and mouth. The chair, another example, must adhere to principles of ergonomics, strength, and comfort, and adapt to various contexts of use.
These objects show that design is primarily a problem-solving process. Their creation is never random but always the result of a series of practical and functional considerations. The design of a pencil, for example, must consider the comfort of the grip, the ease of sharpening, and the quality of the line. This does not mean that aesthetics are irrelevant, but that they are subordinated to functionality.
Telling the story of design through these objects means bringing attention back to what we often take for granted. It is an invitation to recognize and appreciate the ingenuity hidden in our daily lives. In an era where design is often associated with luxury and exclusivity, it is essential to remember that true design is democratic and accessible because it meets universal needs.
Design is not just a matter of appearance but of substance. Telling the story of design through these objects helps us rediscover the value of simplicity and utility and recognize the skill of designers who, through innovative solutions, quietly improve our daily lives.
