Is design becoming a series of boxes to tick, where the way space is assembled responds not to its time and place but instead to dated conventions that no longer truly resonate with client needs? At what point did design simply become a matter of choosing a trend and ticking boxes, with no correlation or responsiveness to the context and the intended function. As designers, we must ask ourselves, have we applied our expert knowledge to its full potential? Have we paused and listened with an unbiased tone to what our clients need from us?
Of course, having constraints to work within is important, because it is within these that good design functions. But effective constraints are the ones that consider ergonomics and anthropometrics, they are the ones that consider inclusivity, spatial function, and the site, so that project delivers on all levels, not just superficially. Constraints should not be what inhibits us from designing, they must not be a series of boxes to tick, that reference trends rather than the key requirements given to us. We must learn to work within the scope of each project while also pushing ourselves and our designs to be more responsive to individual client needs, not wants.
Imagine designing without limitation by refusing to partake in trends, ones that are picked from a preconceived shelf of what a space should be as opposed to what it could be. Imagine always applying an integrative approach, one that values the opinions of key experts in the field, by allowing them to be present in the initial stage of the project so that questions can be asked, and solutions offered. Because only by pausing, adapting, and really listening to our client and individual experts can we create truly individual, meaningful, and compelling spaces.
Valentine interiors + design.
