Design Philosophy Example

Design Philsophies

Adolf Loos

Dieter Rams

Bruce Mau

Adolf Loos – Ornament and Crime (1908)

Adolf Loos – Ornament and Crime (1908)

Ornament and Crime (Ornament und Verbrechen) is a seminal essay written by the Austrian architect Adolf Loos in 1908. It presents a critical view of ornamentation in design and architecture and argues for the simplicity and functionality of modernist aesthetics. Loos believed that ornamentation was a "crime" against the progress of civilization, as he considered it to be unnecessary, wasteful, and a hindrance to the development of modern society. Loos' essay emerged during a time when the Arts and Crafts movement and Art Nouveau were popular, both of which celebrated intricate and decorative ornamentation. In contrast, Loos advocated for a stripped-down approach, emphasizing clean lines, geometric forms, and the use of new materials like glass and steel. He argued that ornamentation served no practical purpose and only served to burden both the object and the individual with superfluous decoration. According to Loos, the pursuit of ornamentation was a regression from the modern industrial era and a reflection of a primitive mindset.

Adolf Loos – Ornament and Crime (1908)

The essay's significance lies in its influence on the development of modernist design and architecture in the 20th century. Loos' ideas aligned with the emerging movement of functionalism, which prioritized the efficiency and rationality of design. Ornament and Crime became a rallying cry for modernist architects and designers who sought to break free from historical styles and embrace a new aesthetic that embraced simplicity, minimalism, and the integration of form and function. Loos' critique of ornamentation also had broader cultural and social implications. He saw ornamentation as a symbol of excess and superficiality, reflecting the moral decay of society. By advocating for plain, unadorned designs, Loos believed that society could progress towards a more rational and honest future. Ornament and Crime continues to be relevant today, as its ideas have influenced generations of designers and architects. The principles of simplicity, functionality, and minimalism espoused by Loos have become central tenets of contemporary design. The essay serves as a reminder of the ongoing tension between ornamentation and simplicity in the pursuit of timeless and meaningful design solutions.

Dieter Rams – Ten principles for Good Design (1987)

Dieter Rams – Ten principles for Good Design (1987)

Dieter Rams was born in 1932 and is still alive today. He is is a German industrial designer and was responsible for many of the Braun home appliances and also Vitsoe furniture. Rams studied architecture & interior design in 1947 and then took a carpentry apprenticeship. Rams philosophy was 'less is better'. His vision is recognised as having inspired the Apple Ipod which was created decades after his initial designs for radios and speakers.

Bruce Mau Incomplete Manifesto for Growth (2000)

Bruce Mau Incomplete Manifesto for Growth (2000)

Bruce Mau is an extremely successful graphic designer who has extended himself into other areas including architecture, art education, film and museums. Mau's success has caused people to want to know more about how he has developed such excellent decision making skills so early in his career. As a result he has attempted to put his philosophy into words so that others can learn from him with manfesto points such as 'Forget about good' and 'Don't clean your desk.'