Form follow function - less is more …
Principle Designer: Pam J Lambert
Form Follows Function! Less is More ... The principle of 'form follows function' stands as a beacon of influence in modern design. Its profound impact is felt in the idea that the shape and appearance of an object should be determined by its purpose and function, rather than by ornamentation or decoration.
The shape and appearance of an object should be determined by its purpose and function rather than by ornamentation or decoration. This principle was popularised by architects and designers such as Louis Sullivan, Frank Lloyd Wright, and Ludwig Mies van der Rohe, who advocated for simplicity, clarity, and honesty in design. However, applying the 'form follows function' principle is not without its challenges. It requires a deep understanding of the object's function and the ability to balance it with aesthetic considerations. One of the consequences of applying the form follows function principle is that less is more. This means that the best design is the one that uses the least amount of elements to achieve the desired effect and that avoids unnecessary complexity and clutter. This principle was also championed by Mies van der Rohe, who famously said: "I don't want to be interesting. I want to be good." Less is more implies that good design is not about adding more features but about removing the ones that are not essential.
Form follows function, and less is more applicable to architecture, design, and other fields and aspects of life. For example, in writing, form follows function means that the style and structure of a text should match its content and message and that less is more means that the best writing is the one that uses the most precise and concise words to convey the meaning. In art, form follows function, which means that the medium and technique of artwork should reflect its concept and expression and that less is more means that the best art is the one that uses the most minimal and elegant forms to create the most powerful and profound impact. Form follows function, and less is more, as are principles, values, and attitudes. They represent a way of thinking and living that values quality over quantity, essence over appearance, and substance over style. They challenge us to be more mindful, intentional, and creative in everything we do and to seek the beauty and meaning in the simple and the essential.
