What Makes Design Good or Bad?

We have all been in spaces or used objects that are well designed or poorly designed. But what makes the good design and what makes the bad design? First, good design starts with function, adaptability, and enrichment. Whether it be a space or a tool, the design of it needs to have a function with intent. If it isn't functional, then it won't be able to be used. Adaptability is important because everyday life is different. Design needs to be able to adapt and be flexible with anyone's everyday life depending on what might happen. The design of a space or object needs to be enriching, meaning it needs to bring joy and beautification to your life. The user will not want to use the space or object if it does not bring joy to them. When you have all three of these elements, there is good design. On the opposite side of that is bad design. Bad design is not functional and does not enrich the users of the space. Bad design could be poor lighting, no windows, or even dangerous material. Imagine being in a room designed with no windows. No one would want to be in that space.

An exceptional example of good design is the Metropol Parasol in Seville, Spain. This wooden structure reaches about 90 feet high and about 500 feet long. The contemporary structure is woven among the historic city of Seville, combining a mix of new and old. The structure is functional because it can be used for a multitude of things like an outside pavilion to host events and merchants. It is adaptable because of the number of uses that users can get out of the structure. These include but are not limited to a museum, restaurants, and shops. One of the most striking things about the Metropol Parasol is its magnitude and its mushroom like design. This design is not only functional, but it enriches the eyes of those that see it and the area around it. The Metropol Parasol has functionality, adaptability, and enrichment to the eye.

One example of bad design is this step down. First, there is no differentiation between the step down. This could easily be a fall hazard to anyone. The colors are so similar that you cannot tell what is what. This could be especially confusing and dangerous for those with visual impairments. Also, to enter to the hallway to the right, one must step down and then step right back up. This is a tripping hazard for anyone trying to simply walk from hallway to hallway. There is no functionality within this design as you have to put in more effort to step down and then step back up. Overall this example shows the different sides of bad design.