The design dictionary is an essential tool for any serious discussion on design. It provides a comprehensive and structured foundation for understanding the language of design and its many nuances. With its categorical approach, the dictionary allows designers to communicate their ideas with clarity and precision, facilitating a more effective international discourse on design.
Moreover, the design dictionary serves as a source of inspiration for designers looking to expand their vocabulary and explore new concepts. By offering definitions, examples, and historical context, the dictionary encourages designers to think critically about their work and its place in the broader design landscape. Ultimately, the dictionary is an indispensable resource for anyone interested in design, providing a rich tapestry of ideas and insights that can inform and inspire creative endeavours across all disciplines.
The Alhambra Table Fountain, created in 1852-1853, embodies Moorish art and Victorian aesthetics, showcased through intricate design, symbolism, and its historical journey.Read More →
A hallmark is a symbol or device struck at an assay office on gold or silver, indicating that article conforms to legal standards of manufacture established by the monarch, local guilds, government etc. Literally, mark applied at Goldsmith’s Hall (London assay office since 1300) but extended to cover e.g. all five stamps found on Victorian silver until 1890: assay office mark specific to each assay office; Read More →
Manufacturers and designers recreated some ancient Egyptian and Roman glassmaking processes in the early 20th century.Read More →
Chromium has been a game-changer in the decorative and applied arts for over 150 years. This versatile metal, known for its lustrous appearance, has revolutionized design in various mediums. From furniture and automobiles to ceramics and gemstones, chromium’s impact is undeniable. Its reflective properties and corrosion resistance make it ideal for creating striking metallic finishes. However, it’s crucial to consider the environmental impact of chromium and work towards sustainable alternatives. Discover the transformative power of chromium in the arts and its continued inspiration in contemporary design.Read More →
The Pantone Colour Matching System is a system for identifying, matching and communicating colours across product design, graphic design and marketing. It utilises a unique numbering system for identifying its colours.Read More →
Silvered glass, invented by F. Hale Thompson in 1849, revolutionized glassmaking with its unique double-walled technique, inspiring artisans across Europe to create exquisite variations.Read More →
The Jacquard loom, invented by French weaver Joseph-Marie Jacquard in 1805, revolutionized the textile industry by simplifying the weaving process and creating intricate patterns with minimal human intervention. The loom combined advancements from previous inventors, including Bouchier’s needles and hooks, Falcon’s chain of cards, and Vancauson’s prism and lantern wheel mechanism. The loom’s impact on weaving technology and automation is significant, as it paved the way for further advancements in weaving technology and automation. Read More →
Slipware is pottery known by its primary decorating method in which slip is added before firing by dipping, painting or splashing on the leather-hard clay body surface. Slip is an aqueous clay body suspension that is a combination of clays and other minerals, such as quartz, feldspar, and mica.Read More →
Japonisme describes the Western fascination with Japanese art and design, notably influencing artists like Van Gogh and Monet, and impacting aesthetics significantly since the 1850s.Read More →
Neon Lighting. Semiflexible, hollow tubes of clear acrylic with small bulbs inside that can be connected to light up all at once or sequentially to produce a “chasing” effect. It’s also known as disco lighting, and it’s given homeowners new illumination alternatives. Lights designers consider neon lighting to be an art form.Read More →