then

DESIGN FOR FEW:
LUXURY GOODS

For years, designers focused on making beautiful objects to be used and appreciated only by the richest individuals. Good design was a luxury. The creators of objects such as Bugatti race cars and gold Rolex watches viewed their designs as works of art. The finest materials and workmanship went into designs that only the wealthy could afford.

Creating a thing of beauty is worthwhile; however, in recent years, designers have realized that their talents and hard work could also be used to solve some of the world’s problems. Focus has shifted to the ways design can make a difference. The thought and skill that goes into a product can make people’s lives better, easier and healthier.

PHOTO: LEAP KYE — FLICKR

& now

DESIGN FOR MANY:
ONE LAPTOP PER CHILD

In 2005, Nicholas Negroponte, a professor at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, envisioned providing inexpensive computers to school children in the world’s poorest countries. He created One Laptop Per Child to give all kids access to the same opportunities as kids in more fortunate circumstances.

Negroponte commissioned designer Yves Behar and his design firm FuseProject to come up with a rugged, kid-friendly laptop that would cost just $100 per unit. The laptop stands out for its bright green color, its rabbit ear antennae and its swivel screen. It has made a difference in the lives of many children already. Its founders hope to reach 50 million kids worldwide.

PHOTO: FUSEPROJECT.COM

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Want to discover more about the field of product design? Click here for a list of fun websites and cool books!

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