objectified p2

There is an underlying notion that the objects we surround ourselves are a reflection of our personalities. However, at times people are unaware of the relationship they have with the object and its significance. In today’s society, designers are not just designing products but are designing scenarios that coincide with consumer’s lives and lifestyles.

A common theme between designers and consumers is that both share a connection with objects. Though, the difference is that designers create these connections through these manufactured objects to appeal to consumers. Often users are unaware of what draws them to a particular product, yet there is a subconscious attraction to certain products in which designers are responsible for.

“...a silent connection is established.” – Naoto Fukasawa

Design has, with intent or not, assimilated itself seamlessly into our lives and created a world where interacting with our surroundings has been somehow influenced by design in a distinct way. Constant advances in technology have resulted in a desire for the new by consumers that will undeniably continue as time goes by.

“...we tend to want new things...and make whatever that used to be now to look like then so people will buy the new now.” – Rob Walker

Designers have the ability to foresee what consumer’s desire and are constantly faced with the challenge to deliver new products. Looking to the past for inspiration has become the way to redefine what was old and what is now considered new. These objects are becoming a combination of technology with things that get better over time which shows that though we yearn for new products, we subconsciously want what has always been readily available to us.

“Every object speaks to you.” - Jonathan Ive

Products are designed with a hidden language intact that speaks to each distinct user uniquely. People have different preconceptions of objects and surround themselves with products that they feel are some type of statement of their individuality. These objects have become a meaningful story of our lives through the way design has implicated this language in the form of products. This personal insight is not only a statement to the world of who you are, but more importantly, it’s a reassurance of oneself of their identity.

There is a constant process of designing with designers always questioning the new and what can be done to change, remove or improve manufactured objects. While consumers are the fuel to the designer’s creative fire by continually craving the new.