Unit 6 (Classic Design)

Question 1

Name the characteristics of a classic design (6)

Answer 1

IMAGE
(instantly recognisable, provoke an emotional response)

STATUS/ CULTURE
(design increases in value over time, communicates social status of owner. May also affect status within sub-cultures)

OBSOLESCENCE
(transcends obsolescence, continue to be desired beyond function)

MASS PRODUCTION
(ensures maximum visibility/ accessibility, lowest cost per unit)

OMNIPRESENT
(constantly present, a part of our daily lives, user attaches emotions to product)

DOMINANT DESIGN
(embodies the essential features, mimicked by others)

Question 2

Explain the strategies of prioritising form vs. function (2)

Answer 2

FORM FOLLOWS FUNCTION
(shape and aesthetics determined by the function of the product –> function easily visible)

FUNCTION FOLLOWS FORM
(this may be done to create emotional reactions, or take advantage of trends)

Question 3

Define retrostyling

Answer 3

design strategy that aims to use aesthetic elements of a classic design in a modern design, in order to recreate the original emotional responses.

Question 4

Distinguish the two kinds of function (2)

Answer 4

Practical function
(performance, objective and quantifiable)

Psychological function
(emotional attachments, psychological needs, subjective and qualifiable)