Industrial Design

The selection of design posts and articles about the last 150 years of industrial design is a fascinating journey through the evolution of modern technology. From the early days of mass production in the late 19th century to the sleek, minimalist designs of today, this collection offers a comprehensive overview of the major trends and movements that have shaped industrial design over the years.

You’ll discover how designers have responded to changing social, economic, and cultural conditions, from the rise of consumerism in the 1920s to the emergence of sustainability as a key concern in recent decades. Along the way, you’ll encounter some of the most iconic products and brands in history, including Apple, Coca-Cola, and IKEA.

Whether you’re a designer looking for inspiration or simply interested in learning more about this fascinating field, this collection is sure to offer something new and exciting.

Set of six French Art Deco armchairs by Jean Pascaud, ebonised wood with pink embroidered upholstery, circa 1930

Jean Pascaud: Architectural Discipline and Luxury Craft in French Art Deco Furniture

Jean Pascaud, a notable French Art Deco designer, uniquely blended engineering and craftsmanship, emphasizing structural clarity and material richness in his influential furniture designs.Read More →

Ric Gath: The Reluctant Revolutionary of Surf Safety

Ric Gath, an Australian surfer-inventor, created the first surf-specific helmet in 1989, redefining surf safety and leaving a lasting legacy in protective design, despite industry resistance.Read More →

Portrait of Ross Littell, a celebrated mid-century modern designer known for his contributions to textile and furniture design.

Ross Franklin Littell (1924 – 2000) American Textile and Furniture Designer

Ross Franklin Littell (1924 – 2000) was an American textile and furniture designer known for his practical, innovative, and minimalist style as part of theRead More →

Vintage PIFCO Electric Massager with original packaging, instruction manual, and massage attachments from the mid-20th century.

The PIFCO 1960 Electric Massager: A Look Back at Vintage Personal Care Technology

The PIFCO Electric Massager from the 1960s represents early personal care innovation, reflecting mid-century consumer trends and marketing claims of health benefits for various ailments.Read More →

Streamliner Meat Slicer – A 1940s aluminum and steel meat slicer designed by Egmont Arens and Theodore C. Brookhart, showcasing streamlined industrial design.

The Streamliner Meat Slicer: A Masterpiece of American Industrial Design

The Streamliner Meat Slicer, designed in the 1930s, exemplifies American industrial design’s blend of aesthetics and functionality, showcasing sleek materials and innovative engineering.Read More →

Hand-drawn sketch of the Pye Model CS17 television designed by Robin Day, depicted as a friendly, walking retro TV with a speech bubble saying 'Where do you want me?'. The vintage-style illustration is signed by Simon Judge.

Pye Model CS17: A Mid-Century Masterpiece by Robin Day

The Pye Model CS17, designed by Robin Day in 1956, showcased modern aesthetics and functionality, influencing mid-century design and becoming a celebrated classic in British electronics.Read More →

A laptop displaying a CAD design next to a 3D printer creating a prototype in a well-equipped industrial design workshop.

Occupational Outlook for Industrial Designers: Career Prospects and Growth Trends

Industrial design merges art and engineering to create functional products. Key roles include research, prototyping, and collaboration, with a positive job outlook and emerging trends in sustainability.Read More →

ndustrial Design classroom at NC State University featuring modern workstations, colorful chairs, and industrial lighting, fostering creativity and innovation.

Exploring Industrial Design at NC State University: Innovation at the Intersection of Art and Technology

NC State’s Industrial Design program emphasizes human-centered design, technology-driven innovation, and sustainability, preparing students for impactful careers in various design fields.Read More →

Exploring Canadian Industrial Design: ACID and Its Impact

The Association of Canadian Industrial Designers (ACID) promotes industrial design, offering various membership tiers with benefits such as networking, advocacy, and professional development since 1948.Read More →

An image of detailed mosaics inside a Mosque.

Understanding Geometric Patterns in Mosque Mosaics

The image showcases intricate mosque mosaics featuring geometric patterns, arches, zellij tiles, calligraphy, chandeliers, carpets, and symmetry, highlighting Islamic architectural artistry.Read More →