Design conventions are a set of established rules, principles, and standards that govern how designers create and present their work. These conventions are based on best practices, industry standards, and common design principles that have been proven to be effective over time. While following design conventions can be a safe and reliable way to create effective designs, there are times when it’s necessary to break the rules and challenge established norms. In this blog post, we’ll explore when and how to challenge design conventions and share examples of designers who have successfully done so.
Understanding Design Conventions
Design conventions are an essential part of the design process. They provide a foundation for designers to build upon and help to ensure that designs are functional, aesthetically pleasing, and easy to understand. Some common design conventions include the use of grid systems, color theory, typography, and visual hierarchy. By following these conventions, designers can create designs that are consistent, predictable, and easy to use.
However, there are limitations to following design conventions. Design conventions can become outdated or no longer relevant, limiting creativity and innovation. In some cases, following design conventions can lead to a lack of originality and make designs feel uninspired. It’s important for designers to understand design conventions and when it’s appropriate to challenge them.
When to Challenge Design Conventions
There are several situations where it’s appropriate to challenge design conventions. For example:
When the design convention is outdated or no longer relevant
Design conventions can become outdated as technology advances and society changes. When a design convention is no longer relevant, it can limit creativity and innovation. For example, the “fold” on a website is a design convention that used to be crucial when most users accessed the internet on desktop computers. However, with the rise of mobile devices, the “fold” is less relevant as users can easily scroll through a website. By challenging the “fold” and creating designs that take advantage of the full screen, designers can create more engaging and effective designs.
When the design convention is limiting creativity or innovation
Design conventions can sometimes limit creativity and make designs feel predictable or uninspired. When a design convention is not allowing a designer to fully express their vision or creativity, it may be time to break the rules. For example, this interior designer in the Netherlands challenges the convention of using neutral colors and instead often uses bold, vibrant colors to create a unique and memorable space.
When the design convention is not appropriate for the specific project or audience
Not all design conventions are suitable for every project or audience. Designers should consider the specific goals and audience of a project and determine whether or not the design convention is appropriate. For example, using a minimalist design for a luxury brand might not be the best choice, as it may not communicate the opulence and luxury that the brand represents. In this case, a designer might challenge the convention of minimalism and create a more ornate and luxurious design.
When the designer has a unique vision or perspective
Sometimes, designers may have a unique vision or perspective that goes against established design conventions. In these cases, it’s important to trust your instincts and break the rules. For example, the famous Dutch graphic designer Wim Crouwel challenged established design conventions in the 1960s and 70s by using grid systems and typography in a new and unconventional way, creating designs that were both functional and visually striking.
How to Challenge Design Conventions
Challenging design conventions requires a combination of creativity, research, and experimentation. Here are some tips for breaking the rules effectively:
Conducting research and gathering inspiration
Before breaking a design convention, it’s essential to understand why it exists and how it has been used in the past. Conducting research and gathering inspiration can help designers gain a better understanding of design conventions and how they can be challenged. This can involve studying the work of other designers, exploring different cultures and design movements, and keeping up with emerging trends in the design industry.
Understanding the purpose and goals of the project
Designers should always consider the purpose and goals of the project when breaking design conventions. They should ask themselves how breaking a convention will benefit the project and help achieve its goals. For example, if the goal of a project is to create a brand identity that stands out in a crowded market, breaking the convention of using subdued colors might help the brand stand out and be more memorable.
Experimenting with different approaches and alternatives
Breaking design conventions requires experimentation and trial and error. Designers should be willing to try different approaches and alternatives until they find one that works. This might involve brainstorming different ideas, sketching out concepts, and creating multiple design iterations until the right solution is found.
Collaborating with others and seeking feedback
Challenging design conventions can be risky, so it’s important to seek feedback and collaborate with others. Designers should share their ideas with peers, mentors, or clients and get feedback on their designs. This can help identify potential pitfalls and ensure that the final design is effective and well-received.
Examples of Successful Design Conventions
There are many examples of designers who have successfully challenged design conventions and achieved success. Here are some examples:
Apple’s minimalist design
Apple’s design philosophy has always been to simplify and remove any unnecessary elements from their products. This minimalist approach was unconventional when it was first introduced, but it has become a hallmark of Apple’s brand identity and has helped them stand out in a crowded market.
IKEA’s flatpack furniture
IKEA revolutionized the furniture industry by introducing flatpack furniture, which allowed customers to assemble furniture at home. This was a departure from traditional furniture design, which often required professional installation. IKEA’s unconventional approach has helped them become one of the world’s largest furniture retailers.
Wim Crouwel’s typographic experiments
Dutch graphic designer Wim Crouwel challenged established design conventions in the 1960s and 70s by using grid systems and typography in a new and unconventional way. His experiments helped to push the boundaries of graphic design and influenced a generation of designers.
Conclusion
Design conventions are an important part of the design process, but there are times when it’s necessary to break the rules and challenge established norms. By understanding when and how to challenge design conventions, designers can create more innovative, engaging, and effective designs. Whether it’s challenging an outdated convention or breaking a rule to express a unique vision, designers should always be willing to experiment and push the boundaries of design. The key is to do so in a thoughtful and deliberate way, always keeping the purpose and goals of the project in mind.