for our first project we chose a manufactured object that best embodied Dieter Rams' ten principles of good design. after some visual exploration and careful consideration i chose a Phillips brand electric shaver.
the shaver was designed with these principles in mind: useful, aesthetic, understandable, unobtrusive, thorough, and as little design as possible. the shaver itself is inherently useful, at least every other day it is required for a task that it completes more efficiently than its manual counterpart, or previous models. its organic, flowing form is aesthetic from all angles, as are the contrasting materials and textures it is made of. a single push on-off button, combined with a shape that clearly defines its purpose, makes it easily understandable. the compact volume of the body and slender profile allow it to be unobtrusive when sitting upright in its designated position on a countertop. the thoroughness of the design process can be seen in each of these principles: no piece was haphazardly added, nor are there any missing pieces. in turn, this creates as little design as possible. the shaver fulfills its purpose without excess materials used, space occupied, or added functionality.
the shaver also has quality design aspects aside from Rams' principles.
ergonomics were given much attention in the shaver's design. its form fitting handle indicates thoughtful process, and real life testing were a part in its development. a "tri-flexing"razor head gives comfort to the user, as does the angle at which it tangents from the handle.
when an object is designed well it develops a personality. broad shoulders and an elegantly molded torso can be depicted sustaining an intelligent head equipped with the appropriate tools for the job. in an upright position, the shaver conveys a proud yet humble sense of intention, meanwhile the aerodynamic curves imply it is almost patiently waiting to be used.
