The Hunter Museum of American Art in Chattanooga, TN has recently opened a new exhibit, Good Design: Stories from Herman Miller.  Inspired by the book “Herman Miller: The Purpose of Design” by John R. Berry, the focus of the exhibition is the process and design behind the creation of a product rather than the end result itself.  This is truly a thought provoking show.

The introduction of the book has a wonderful perspective on design.  Here is a quote…

“Design is a process, not a formula.  It follows a logic but is open to those unexpected discoveries that come from experimentation and from making connections between seemingly disconnected ideas.

Design is a noun, a verb, and a problem-solving process.  It is art with a purpose.  In order to produce solutions, design requires a clear understanding of the conditions, constraints, and opportunities of a particular situation.  Good design does not happen in a vacuum.  A good designer is able to recognize a need, identify the relevant limitations, and devise a solution.

The word design evokes a wide range of images and meanings.  The term is applied to objects and processes, brands and environments, critical reviews and experiences – all of which can be good or bad.  Design can be elitist or egalitarian, a profession, and a result.  Any way you look at it, design in some way affects everyone….

…Common to all design professions is the desire to make something better.”