22/01/12 – Noto ballpoint pen designed by Naoto Fukasawa for German pen manufacturer Lamy in 2008. Design is restricted to essential functions with a view to good writing. Casing profile is triangular and made of heavy plastic with a matte surface. (more…)
18/03/11 – Selections from the packaging and documentation of Richter’s Anchor Stone Building Set No. 8 (Anker Steinbaukasten No. 8), first issued in 1894. (more…)
27/11/09 – A selection of diagrams and information graphics from Bauhaus publications by Gropius, Itten, Kandinsky , Klee, Moholy-Nagy, Schlemmer, et al. (more…)
11/10/07 – Source: Wallpaper* magazine (103), guest editor: Dieter Rams
01. Good design is innovative
It does not copy existing product forms, nor does it produce and kind of novelty for the sake of it. The essence of innovation must be clearly seen in all functions of a product. The possibilities, in this respect, are by no means exhausted. Technological development keeps offering new chances for innovative solutions.
02. Good design makes a product useful
The product is purchased in order to be used. It must serve a defined purpose –in both primary and additional functions. The most important task of design is to optimize the utility of a product.
03. Good design is aesthetic
The aesthetic quality of a product –and the fascination it inspires– is an integral part of the product’s utility. Without doubt, it is uncomfortable and tiring to have to put up with products that are confusing, that get on your nerves, that you are unable to relate to. However, it has always been a hard task to argue about aesthetic quality for two reasons. Firstly, it is difficult to talk about anything visual, since words have a different meaning for different people. Secondly, aesthetic quality deals with details, subtle shades, harmony and the equilibrium of a whole variety of visual elements. A good eye is required, schooled by years and years of experience, in order to be able to draw the right conclusion. (more…)