The Unforeseen Beauty of Form Through Function

Form is the physical manifestation of an object, its aesthetic attributes that delight the senses. It's the captivating exterior, the allure that first draws the eye. Conversely, function signifies the essential purpose or practical use of an object or design. It's the essence, the solution to a problem, the need it fulfils.

"Form follows function" communicates that an object's shape should evolve organically from its purpose. The form isn't an arbitrary decision but a natural outcome of the function it's meant to serve. The philosophy suggests that the functional core should dictate the eventual form.

However, we often grapple with a preoccupation for what things should look like. Our minds, seeking predictability, desire a clear picture of the final product. This can lead us to prioritize form over function, causing an imbalance in the design process.

Indeed, it feels uncomfortable to let go of our expectations of appearance, to not have a tangible vision to guide us. It's unsettling to shift the focus from the visually appealing to the purely practical. Yet, embracing this discomfort is crucial to truly embody the ethos of "form follows function."

"When you get the function right, the form will reveal itself." - a Clarism

This emphasizes this principle's innate beauty. It encourages us to surrender our preconceptions, to allow function to take the reins. It suggests that when we prioritize function, the form will unfold naturally and beautifully, like a flower blooming from a bud.

In conclusion, "form follows function" is a testament to the elegance of practicality. It asks us to step beyond the comfort of familiar aesthetics and trust in the power of purpose. The principle reaffirms that when we prioritize function, form will emerge, balancing beauty and utility in a harmonious dance. It is about relinquishing control over the known and embracing the beauty of the unseen for the sake of practicality.

This is what I have always believed, however...

Perhaps it's not form following function, but form through function?

The concept of 'letting go of form' and allowing it to emerge organically from function can be a daunting idea. Often, our minds are filled with preconceived notions about how a design should look. However, by setting aside these expectations and focusing on perfecting the function, we open ourselves up to a universe of possibilities, often leading to outcomes far more intriguing and pleasing than initially envisioned.

When we prioritize function, we put problem-solving at the heart of the design process. It encourages us to think deeply about the purpose our design is meant to serve and how it can do so most effectively. This focus on utility and efficiency often leads to innovative solutions that may not have been apparent if we were confined by a predetermined form.

Freeing ourselves from the constraints of a specific form allows the creative process to flow more freely. As we work on perfecting the function, the form naturally evolves to accommodate it. This process often leads to forms that are unique, inventive, and at times, revolutionary.

Moreover, a form that emerges from the function is inherently more harmonious. It carries an innate balance between its aesthetic appeal and its utility. It doesn't just look good; it feels right. It is intuitive to use because its form is a direct reflection of its function. This harmony often leads to a design that exceeds our initial expectations, both in terms of aesthetics and usability.

In essence, by letting go of our preconceived notions of form and allowing it to manifest through function, we harness the power of organic design. This approach not only leads to an effective and efficient solution but also unveils a form that is genuine, intuitive, and sometimes, surprisingly beautiful. The result is often a design that is better than we could have ever imagined, a testament to the transformative power of the principle 'form follows function.' The principle "form follows function" is a cornerstone of design, an ideology uniting the realms of aesthetics and utility. Unravelling this principle begins with distinguishing between form and function.

Dave Clare, CEO & Founder - Circle Leadership

WEEKLY CLARISM

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