Sorry FT and Helen Barrett, but design is for the masses, whether we like it or not (“A new design democracy”, House & Home, FT Weekend, April 13).
By its very definition, to design is to plan and make decisions about something that is being built or created. Everything we manufacture (or make) has to be designed and sadly that pivotal role of the designer has too often been overlooked — hence the demise of our great British manufacturing industry of the last century. In our capitalist society, it’s the consumer’s choice as to what wins through — the longevity and value of design can be seen in the design classics and antiques that endure today.
Interestingly, William Morris, the socialist activist and parent of the Arts and Crafts movement, was a champion of good design to be shared and appreciated by all — ironically the quality and desirability of his work created exclusivity too.
He was also a great advocate for sustainability, long before the term was even invented. Nearly a century later, Terence Conran (Habitat) and Bárbara Hulanicki (Biba) brought good design to the people.
Sadly, in this country our champions of design are fast disappearing. We have become a society of consumers and possessors of things.
Our government’s responsibility for design appears to be delegated to the Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport of all things.
Say no more.
Myles Pinfold
Holmfirth, West Yorkshire, UK
