Colloquia

Samenvatting

This research examines the concept of timelessness in design by connecting contemporary frameworks for designing for longevity with historical approaches to timeless design. Through an analysis of designers and movements from the past two centuries, such as the Arts and Crafts movement, Neue Sachlichkeit, and Gute Form, this study explores how the idea of timeless design has developed over time and how it can be understood today.

In contemporary design theory it is seen that a distinction is made between visually simplistic timelessness and timelessness due to exquisite beauty. The focus is then mostly put on visually simplistic timelessness as the best way of designing timeless products. To broaden this view a study was done on designers and design movements from the past 200 years, and their view on timeless objects.

This research was then compared to findings on the public perception of timelessness. This was done through a survey, semi-structured interviews, and a workshop. By comparing these perspectives, this research shows that timeless design cannot be reduced to a single aesthetic outcome, such as minimalism or neutrality. Instead, it should be understood as a combination of form, function, and cultural relevance. The study concludes that applicability is a more nuanced way of expressing timelessness within the context of the visual expression of a product.