This article forms part of the Decorative and Applied Arts Encyclopedia, a master reference hub providing a structured overview of design history, materials, movements, and practitioners.
Ergonomi design, founded in Stockholm in 1969, has led in combining aesthetics with functionality, especially in designs for people with disabilities. This human-centred approach aligns closely with the principles of Henry Dreyfuss, whose work emphasised usability and ergonomics in industrial design. By 2003, the company had grown to include 27 industrial designers, engineers, and ergonomists. Key figures like Maria Benktzon and Sven-Eric Juhlin joined the team in the 1970s, significantly contributing to its innovative approach. Moreover, Ergonomi design operates within the broader tradition of Swedish Modernism, where clarity, simplicity, and social responsibility define the design ethos.
Veryday – A New Era
In recent years, Ergonomi design has been rebranded and is now known as Veryday. This change signifies a broader scope and a deeper commitment to human-centred design. Consequently, the studio continues to explore the relationship between form and function, ensuring that design solutions respond directly to real human needs in everyday contexts.
Design Innovations
A blend of elegance and practicality characterises their work. Noteworthy projects demonstrate how design can improve accessibility while maintaining aesthetic value:
- Ideal Kitchen Knife (1974): This knife was functional and aesthetically refined, designed specifically for people with arthritis. Its significance is reinforced by its inclusion in the Museum of Modern Art’s permanent collection. It also sits within a broader history of cutlery design, where usability and craftsmanship intersect.
- Eating and Drinking Tableware (1978): This range, recognised for its design excellence, caters to people with disabilities while maintaining a strong visual identity. It represents an important tableware design, where accessibility enhances everyday experience.
- Ambulance Stretcher (1983): A critical design for Swedish ambulances, this project was widely recognised for its innovation. It highlights the importance of ergonomics in high-pressure environments, particularly within medical and emergency contexts.
- BabyBjörn Baby Carrier: A testament to practical and safe design, this product has achieved global recognition. It reflects the broader evolution of product design, where comfort, safety, and usability are essential.
- Genotropin Injection Pen (1996): This medical device, designed for children with hormone growth deficiency, represents a milestone in product design. It demonstrates how thoughtful design can significantly improve user experience in healthcare settings.
Expansion and Recognition
- Japanese Expansion (2002): Ergonomi design established its first Japanese branch, showcasing its international reach and winning significant awards for its innovative designs.
- Awards and Accolades: Veryday has been recognized for its excellence in design with over 240 national and international awards, including prestigious honours like the Red Dot Design Team of the Year award.
Contributions to Literature
- “Func” by Susanne Pagold and Gábor Palotai (2006): This book delves into the principles and philosophy underpinning Veryday’s design ethos.
Related Articles
Sources
Byars, M., & Riley, T. (2004). The design encyclopedia. Laurence King Publishing.
Wikipedia contributors. (2020, December 8). Veryday. In Wikipedia, The Free Encyclopedia. Retrieved 21:24, January 22, 2021, from https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Veryday&oldid=992956989
Woodham, J. (2004). A Dictionary of Modern Design. : Oxford University Press. Retrieved 22 Jan. 2021
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