Minimalism – Less is More
Minimalism is a philosophy that emphasizes clarity and intentional living by removing unnecessary elements, resulting in stronger design, deeper experiences, and enhanced focus.Read More →
January 31, 2025

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.
Minimalism is a philosophy that emphasizes clarity and intentional living by removing unnecessary elements, resulting in stronger design, deeper experiences, and enhanced focus.Read More →
Affichiste. Name (literally ‘poster designer’) taken by the French artists and photographers Raymond Hains (1926-) and Jacques de la Villeglé (1926-), who met in 1949 and created a technique to create collages from pieces of torn-down posters during the early 1950s. These works, which they displayed for the first time in 1957, were called affiches lacérées (torn posters). Read More →
The Shaker furniture style is characterised by simplicity and functionality, made from high-quality materials and features clean lines and minimal ornamentation. It fell out of favour in the early twentieth century but is now appreciated for its timeless elegance and practicality.Read More →
Regimental silverware is owned by military regiments for display and utilitarian use. Centrepieces, two-handled cups, tureens, and rose-water basins are used for their intended purposes and serve as symbols of unity and camaraderie within the regiment. They are taken with the regiment wherever it is stationed, reminding them of their history and traditions.Read More →
Spool beds, known as Jenny Lind Style, feature intricately turned spindles resembling spools. Once popular, now a relic, still prized by antique collectors.Read More →
A method of printing from a design drawn directly on a slab of stone or other suitable material. The design is not raised in relief as in woodcut or incised as in line engraving, but drawn on a smooth printing surface. Initially, this surface was provided with a slab of unique limestone, but metal (usually zinc or aluminium) or more recently plastic sheets were prefered because they are less bulky. Read More →
Regency tankards, crafted in England between 1811-1820, showcase intricate low-relief figures, making them valued collectibles representing historical artistry and conversation pieces.Read More →
The term “wrought iron” refers to the material rather than the products made of iron. Modern mild steel has supplanted wrought iron, a forgeable ferrous material used up until about the middle of the twentieth century. Because of the extensive forming required during its production—under power hammers and through rollers—it was originally referred to as “wrought” (or “worked”). Read More →
The brandy bowls, produced in 17th and 18th century Holland and Friesland, were used in childbirth ceremonies. This silver example showcases detailed engraving and religious iconography.Read More →
The quaich is a traditional Scottish drinking vessel with two handles, used mainly during ceremonies. It symbolizes unity and incorporates unique customs like “kissing the quaich.”Read More →