Friday, July 30, 2010

beauty + utility



In Jones' writing he says "Construction should be decorated. Decoration should never be purposely constructed.” This principle is similar to Pugin’s ones; they both think that the functional aspect of a design should be thought of before the aesthetics. I agree that aesthetics are important in a design, however the function is also a vital component of a desin. A modern day example of such a thing, is the bookshelf that i chose. It is both fun ctional and also has an aesthetical quality about it that relates back to its natural source. I like this bookshelf because of its design, and how it is suitable for its function. It follows Pugin's true principles, because it has respect to the characteristics of the material, the inside of the bookshelf represents the branches of a tree, in an abstracted manner. This bookshelf is an example of construction decorated, because it is constructed without unnessecary imbellishments, i.e the shelves angles.


Friday, July 23, 2010

"sensuous impulse"


The “sensuous impulse” is where form is prioritized over function. It is the irrational necessity to make everything curvaceous without a thought for the actual products purpose. The seductive ergonomics are taken from nature rather than history, sucking people into buying products for the ornament value. Straight lines symbolizing rational classical inspired function verse the feminine passion shown through curves.

The Art Nouveau period is where these impulses are frequently made. The organic curves are contagious and take over all it touches. The nature inspired curves spread over walls, furniture and ornaments while being dysfunctional and expensive. The picture I chose is from the art nouveau period, the handrail specifically shows a sensuous impulse via its pattern which is the main focus rather than the function.

Thursday, July 15, 2010

Good design

THE EGG CARTON
I chose the egg carton as a good piece of design because of the initiative behind it.
The separation of soft cardboard between the eggs makes it a convenient and user friendly way to carry eggs without the worry of having them break before you get home.