In the evolution of modern European furniture design, a clear tension has always existed between the "avant-garde" and the "mainstream." This contrast is not just about aesthetics but represents deeper philosophical and cultural differences. The avant-garde approach in design focuses on using furniture as a medium for communication. It aims to express the designer’s vision, not just solve practical problems or introduce new innovations. Rather, it seeks to convey a personal perspective on how furniture interacts with users, how it relates to production processes, and its broader social implications.
The designs from the avant-garde movement, such as those from the Wei School, often stand in stark contrast to mainstream furniture. This difference arises because the avant-garde places greater emphasis on the communicative power of design. As a result, more design elements are used to convey meaning, making the work more expressive and thought-provoking.
Richard Buchanan once described this kind of communication through design by focusing on its semantic nature. According to him, a design carries a strong theme that inevitably sparks discussion whenever someone interacts with it. Based on this theory, any design concept contains three core elements that shape its communicative power: technical rationality, characteristics, and emotion.
Technical rationality forms the foundation of the design theme. It is based on an understanding of natural scientific principles, the structure of materials, and the physiological and cultural needs of users. This rationality isn’t just about the object itself—it's closely tied to the people who will use it. It influences how the design meets user expectations, whether directly or indirectly.
Characteristics represent the most distinctive part of a design. They reflect the designer’s unique way of expressing their ideas. When characteristics and technical rationality work together, they can enhance the overall impact of the design. In some cases, they can even mask minor technical shortcomings.
Emotion plays a particularly vital role in the semantics of furniture, especially chairs. A chair can evoke powerful feelings through physical contact, past experiences, and the intended function. Many emotional responses come from personal experiences, like sports or relaxation. These emotions make the design more relatable, bridging the psychological gap between the object and the user. As a result, people are more likely to connect with the design and choose to use it when needed.
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