Design that lasts 8.27.10
We usually believe “good design” to be the single peak, the only positive pole as opposed to “bad design”. But what if there are several different poles of good design?
In fact, the meaning behind the expression “good design” is really ambiguous, even if we leave aside the question of design definitions. Is good design akin to good cleaning? I mean, is it something about just putting things to their proper places and getting rid of noise? Or maybe it means being an artist, not a mere technician? Doesn’t good design also mean creating something that lasts, something people will talk about?
Typology as a design tool 25.10.09
have been thinking a long time about design styles, but only recently I figured out the usable typology. It consists of four main approaches, so it’s quite simple.
Why design typology? Just because sometimes it’s much easier to start a new work with a definite approach in mind — of course, if it will answer the client’s needs. With a typology all you have to do is to select the most appropriate style. It’s a much more effective way than trying alternative versions until it’s okay.
David Carson on design and discovery 12.51.09
A great talk of David Carson at TED. By the way, I disagree with the title «grunge typographer».
Designer’s dilemma: illusions and creativity 5.44.09
The argument between manager and designer never ends. The former fairly supposes that a good designer is the one who doesn’t self-express but answer client’s demands. The latter feels she can’t do well what doesn’t affect her in any way. Including personal affections is for her often the only way to give meaning to the task.
But there are ghosts threatening a designer who doesn’t reject the temptation of self-expression. It’s hard to tell a good solution from a personally appealing but unrelated image. Where experienced designers manage to combine personal involvement with seeing through client’s eyes, not so experienced ones tend to lose balance.
27 design definitions 4.46.09
Once upon a time I’ve found on the web a Word document where an unknown person compiled a brilliant selection of design definitions. I think it’s a good piece to start this design blog with, especially because the original file doesn’t anymore exist. Another reason is that nobody reads first posts anyway ;) As for me, I am sure that first things, like thinking about what the essence of your work is, are crucially important. Especially because nobody else cares :)
