You’ve probably heard it before: when designs work well, they go unnoticed, fading into the background of our lives. This idea comes from phenomenology, with concepts like ready-to-hand and present-to-hand, which suggest that we notice things when they fail or don’t work as intended. I notice things when they don’t work, as I’m sure you do, too.
But I also notice and appreciate designs when they work and/or when they set a new bar for experience.
In my everyday life, I encounter lots of examples of good design, from the buttery smooth glide of a great gel pen (love those..) to the satisfying thud of a well-crafted car door (love those, too). These types of experiences draw attention to themselves.
When a design is truly exceptional, it can elevate our experience and leave a lasting impression.
Take, for example, the simple act of slipping on a comfortable running shoe. I notice how it hugs my foot–how the force of the hug increases just a little more with each pull of the laces–providing just enough support and cushioning. I notice the materials; the way the they morph and shape to my foot.
Shoes change the experience of standing, walking, and running. They create, or contribute to, a room’s atmosphere. Heck, they change the experience of looking down.
When it comes to digital products, I appreciate well-designed interfaces that allow me to navigate websites and apps, making my experiences efficient and, at times, delightful.
When a design is intuitive and pleasing and comfortable, it’s hard not to notice and, perhaps, appreciate the work that went into creating it.