Crafting a Personal Design Philosophy: Form and Function in Harmony

In the world of design, the power of aesthetics and functionality intertwined can create masterpieces that captivate the imagination and elevate the human experience. A personal design philosophy is not merely a set of principles; it is the soul of your creative journey. It is the North Star guiding your work, breathing life into every creation, and echoing the essence of your mission and brand.

Design Philosophy Unveiled

Good design philosophy is the narrative that weaves the threads of your mission and brand into a coherent, compelling story. It transcends mere aesthetics, striking an emotional chord with users and setting your creations apart as a beacon of distinction in a crowded world. It is a guiding light that illuminates the path for your team and every project, infusing aspirational goals into every aspect of the client experience and defining your brand's identity.

For me, design philosophy is an ever-evolving tapestry that revolves around core values, each more pivotal than the last.

Dunning Kruger Effect - Bhardwaj 2021

1. Designing with Context

Studying design has taught me that I truly no nothing in the grand scheme of the world that I design for. Simply stated as the Dunning-Kruger effect, this principle is constantly reiterated in my processes. For every project, regardless of concept or client, I must zoom out and begin to grapple the surrounding information and digest the fundamentals of any brief. The best designers work with epistemic humility and admit when they lack the knowledge, but know where to find it.

Christopher Alexander explains designing with context well in A Pattern Language, "This is a fundamental view of the world. It says that when you build a thing you cannot merely build that thing in isolation, but must also repair the world around it, and within it, so that the larger world at that one place becomes more coherent, and more whole; and the thing which you make takes its place in the web of nature as you make it." (Alexander, 1977)

2. Occupant-Centric Approach

Ultimately, the purpose of design is to enhance the lives of those who occupy the spaces we create. The primary objective is to serve occupants in the best possible way, aligning their needs and desires with the essence of the design. Human beings are at the heart of design. Ergonomic and humanistic considerations guide every decision. The designs should enhance and evolve pre-existing routines and habits of occupants, making life more comfortable and enjoyable.

A. Accessibility and Universal Design

In my world, public spaces are not just functional; they are inclusive sanctuaries for all. Equal, equitable, and universal use is not an afterthought; it's the cornerstone of every project. The design process prioritizes accessibility, ensuring that everyone can participate in the beauty and functionality of a space.

From my personal experience with long term physical disability, I found a huge passion for creating a universally accessible world.

Visceral Impulse - A.J.Battle 2022

3. Impermanence and Evolution

Design, in its purest form, is not static. It's dynamic and ever-evolving, much like life itself. In my philosophy, I embrace change and impermanence as catalysts for innovation. My designs are living entities, adapting to users' evolving needs and aspirations.

One of my favorite ways to express my love for design and art in an impermanent way is through mural painting.

Visceral Impulse - A. J. Battle 2022

4. Efficiency without Compromise

Functionality and aesthetics need not be at odds. My philosophy emphasizes the importance of efficient and realistic solutions that do not sacrifice beauty. The objective is to create spaces that are both practical and visually stimulating, seamlessly merging form and function. This includes grounded and realistic solutions for real world problems.

Earlier this semester, I designed a foldable clock inspired after Gerrit Reitveld's work. This was an incredible challenge to prioritize function, mechanics without losing the iconic aesthetic features of Reitveld's work.

Clock Sketches A.J.Battle 2023

5. Eloquent Expression

Design is a silent language, and my creations must speak volumes. I aim to craft work that stands as an embodiment of its own narrative, inspiring a personal connection with those who encounter it. Each design should tell a story, inviting interpretation and engagement.

6. Satisfying Innate Preferences

Design has the power to tap into the subconscious and satisfy inherent primal needs and preferences. It's about creating environments that resonate with the deep-seated desires of the human psyche, delivering comfort, security, and aesthetic pleasure.

7. Multi-Sensory Experience

The world isn't just visual; it's a symphony of sensations. In my philosophy, design transcends the visual realm to create multi-sensory experiences. It redefines the interior experience, creating a more inclusive, immersive, and transformative environment.

In summary, my personal design philosophy is a continuous pursuit of the perfect harmony between form and function. It's a commitment to creating spaces that embrace change, prioritize equality, and serve the occupants with efficient, eloquent, and human-centric designs. It's a promise to create environments that resonate with the human soul on a fundamental level, igniting all the senses in a symphony of beauty and functionality. Ultimately, my designs are not just structures; they are stories woven with the threads of aspiration, humanity, and aesthetic delight.

Citations

Alexander, C. (1997). A Pattern Language. Fachhochsch., Fachbereich Architektur.

Bhardwaj, A. (2021, September 29). Dunning-kruger effect and Journey of a Software Engineer. Medium. https://medium.com/geekculture/dunning-kruger-effect-and-journey-of-a-software-engineer-a35f2ff18f1a