Design

Design Philosophy: Form Follows Function

Kristi Dawn Riggs
Upskilling
3 min readMay 28, 2022

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Photo by Obi - @pixel6propix on Unsplash

Form follows function is a design principle that dictates that the form of an object should be based on its purpose. In other words, the form of an object should be dictated by its function.

This principle is often used in the design of products, buildings, and other objects.

Imagine a chair. The function of a chair is to provide a place to sit. The form of the chair should be based on this function. It should be comfortable to sit in and should be able to support the weight of a person. The chair should also be stable so that it does not tip over when someone is sitting in it.

Photo by Virender Singh on Unsplash

This principle can also be applied to the design of buildings. The form of a building should be based on its function.

An office building, for example, should be designed to be a place where people can work. It should have plenty of light and should be comfortable to work in.

A factory, on the other hand, should be designed to be a place where products can be made. It should have wide-open spaces and high ceilings to accommodate the machinery.

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Kristi Dawn Riggs
Upskilling

Advisor, University Faculty Adjunct, M.A. Georgetown University.