Functional and symbolic relations of the object in design

Abstract

Design contributes in a very unique way to the material culture, for it is present in everything around us - from regular products to complex technology solutions. Every day new products are launched in the market and the problem is that they are not always really useful and necessary. There has been an exaggerated increase in consumption and desire for possession, a relationship that has become unsustainable. The relationship between function and symbolism in design is closer than ever: a product is considered “good” if “the form follows the function”, but it should also be visually attractive and arouse emotions. This balanced approach ensures that design projects are more successful and useful. Thus, design contributes to the material culture while shedding light to social and sustainability issues - considered fundamental aspects today.

Keywords

• Objeto
• Forma
• Função
• Símbolo