What is Design?

Harah assigned us homework to come up with our own definition of design. I looked at design as a verb, to create something by implementing a system that is a combination of a lot of aspects such as functionality and aesthetic. 

Design is such a big word with a very broad meaning, you can look at it in many different ways. Some designers including Dieter Rams and Terence Conran, have come up with principles as to what constitutes a good design. They generally agree that good design means something that works well and is easy to use and is pleasing in appearance. Good design should also be innovative. This focus on design has led to a revival of the designer as a craftsperson, someone who is able to produce objects that not only work well and are beautiful to look at, but that also meet customer expectations. 

I also learned that design is different than art. Design is to create something with a purpose, and that what sets the design apart from art. Art does not always necessarily have a functional purpose, but it is essential in design. This idea of design can then be put into any aspect of life. In terms of my research, I am looking to create a design that will help the Peranakan culture. My mission is to find out what is the best way to do so?

Header image by Balázs Kétyi via Unsplash.com