As society's dialog begins to recenter around "rebuilding", we continue to reflect on how the elemental values of design can help foster meaning, intentionality, and help in people's lives going forward. This is in mind, we're reminded of one of our favorite design heroes: Dieter Rams.
During the intense rebuilding process following World War II, Dieter presented a novel new vision of clarity through his mantra of "Less but More". This notion has always rung true to us - a timeless beacon encouraging design to distill the essentials of function and experience in ways that allow people to feel present and free in their lives. The "more" is significant because it implies a value that's human-centric not object-centric. With all the complexities of life today - this mantra is ever resonating: How can our surroundings bring us peace and focus on the truly important things in life?
As we spend more time reflecting on everything, we are reminded of the value to continue to rediscover the things that have inspired us and still continues to do so. Ever since we were students studying design years ago, Dieter's ethos has formed the core of what we believe as designers and try to instill in our everyday practice. In honor of that, we'd like to share our genuine admiration for Dieter Rams and what makes him so inspiring.
L&G RECOMMENDATIONS SERIES NO.3: REDISCOVER
Studio
OBJECT SHRINE
Dieter's 606 Universal shelving system installed in our Red Hook studio serves as a 3D inspiration board that holds our experiments, books, and collections from friends and travels. It's our shrine and a daily reminder to always stay curious and explorative. See how L&G arranges things HERE!
Book
THE POWER OF GOOD DESIGN
We love this perfect pocket-size book from Vitsoe that shares Dieter Rams' 10 Principles of Design. It's still just as relevant today as it was 60 years ago. Read or print the digital version HERE!
Watch
RAMS: A FILM ABOUT DIETER RAMS
Starting this week, Film director, Gary Hustwit is streaming Rams film about Dieter Rams for FREE! It's a beautifully shot film that highlights his philosophy and reminds us how we always learn and strive to better as designers. Watch the whole film for free HERE. (until April 21st)
Discover
VITSOE SHELVING
VItsoe is the company that has been producing Dieter Ram's shelving and furniture design since 1960. Still to this day the design has stayed true to its original vision since day one....60 years ago! It's no mistake why the system is named 606 Universal Shelving. See this incredible universal system HERE.