Elegance inspired by simplicity.

Two of my favourite concepts in design are:

LESS IS MORE and FORM FOLLOWS FUNCTION

As Chris and I design and implement our Vision for our Inn and for our new home I’m sure I sound like a broken record. When we hit a ‘challenge point’ I remind us “Form follows function” or “Less is more”.

Less is more;

The notion that simplicity and clarity lead to good design.

I’ve always know this phrase to be associated with the architect and furniture designer Ludwig Mies Van Der Rohe (1886-1969), one of the founders of modern architecture and a proponent of simplicity of style.

He created this lovely, simple chair and so much more…

rohe_chair_-lr_120_big.jpg

However when I googled the phrase  (http://www.phrases.org.uk/meanings/226400.html) I found this; A 19th century proverbial phrase. It is first found in print in Andrea del Sarto, 1855, a poem by Robert Browning:

Who strive – you don’t know how the others strive
To paint a little thing like that you smeared
Carelessly passing with your robes afloat,
Yet do much less, so much less, Someone says,
(I know his name, no matter) – so much less!
Well, less is more, Lucrezia.

Form follows function; 

Refers to modern architecture… back in the day and to industrial design. It’s attributed to both Louis Sullivan, who, in1896 said “form ever follows function”, and Frank Lloyd Wright who said “form follows function”.

There have been many interpretations of what each of those great architects meant. I interpret it as ~ ALWAYS decide how the space or feature is to work or function, then make it look pretty. It’s always awesome to make a space look beautiful but if it doesn’t function for the end user what’s the point?

I LOVE great design but efficiency is paramount.

My first love in the interior design world is in space planning. Chris is an efficiency expert ~ my words not his, but oh so true. We spend vast amounts of time deciding what makes sense, what will work best, how what we’re coming up with affects the flow, etc. I have such a strong belief in “Form follows function” that I truly don’t fret about the final ‘look’ trusting that once the efficiency is worked out, there’s always a way to make the space look great.

So, this week we’re finalizing efficiency and we’re getting to the fun stuff… picking tiles, counters, millwork and colours, YAY! 

Previous blog on colour;

http://inspiredbyjoy.posterous.com/its-becoming-oh-so-real

Most people make the mistake of thinking design is what it looks like… People think it’s this veneer — that the designers are handed this box and told, ‘Make it look good!’ That’s not what we think design is. It’s not just what it looks like and feels like. Design is how it works.

Hope you’re all enjoying your weekend.

Inspire someone today!

Not feeling it? Be Kind, Be Generous… Be LOVE!