“Design Feeling” and Neo-Transitional Objects

Designer objects fraught with meaning counterbalance uncertainty in the digitally dependent reality

by Stefano Caggiano Everyday objects shape our lives into cognitive patterns. Often, however, these objects are ill-designed. Design thinking is then called in to untangle the not-always-coherent running of our object-related routines. However important, this design thinking—or making user-experience more seamless—cannot solve all problems. The greater meaning of an object experience has at least as much importance as the function in the perceived quality of …

Project A:LOG

A group of architects are creating the ultimate notebook for designers

Three aspiring architects from Columbia’s GSAPP program, Paul Chan, Richard Angus Duff and Ebberly Strathairn took it upon themselves to end their unrewarding quest for the ultimate notebook by making their own. Part technical reference manual, part sketchbook, A:LOG simplifies the creative process by combining reference materials and a gridded sketchbook all in one beautiful and convenient travel-size notebook. We spoke to the guys about …

Interview: Jay Sae Jung Oh

The designer discusses her jute-wrapped sculptural "Savage" series, environmental sustainability and her next step

The sculptural furnishings by Korea-born designer Jay Sae Jung Oh are stop-you-in-your-tracks beautiful—a complicated, show-stopping mix of materials that references centuries-old weaving techniques and yet feels entirely unexpected. Made from discarded plastic objects woven and wrapped around broken-down patio chairs, Oh’s “Savage” series of functional seating and side tables are the perfect marriage of her degree in sculpture from Kookmin University in South Korea and …