Michael Roller

My Favorite Things: Four New Quadrant Maps

With a longer list of favorites, I created a new series of quadrant maps to do further analysis. Granted this whole project is very subjective, I’m starting to see some trends appear. I’m inclined towards objects that are semantically familiar, visually simple, relatively geometric forms. However, there consistently appears a small number of objects that are the extreme opposite in some way – unusual, visually complex objects that stand out from the crowd. These are mostly high design objects and furniture. The pink markers represent designs that I created myself, which mostly fall into place with the rest of the objects.

My preferences appear focused but not absolute. There is a place for something surprising or novel to break from the potential monotony of similar objects. It reminds me of how a graphic designers follows a grid system but breaks it for visual interest at key times. What do you think?

1 Comment to My Favorite Things: Four New Quadrant Maps

1. 

   Mike-
   This is a good exercise for all of us to do for self reflection. Most designers make assumptions about what they find visually appealing and this would be a good way to reinforce, or dispel those personal beliefs. It does not eliminate bias, but it helps to recognize it. Three suggestions:
   1) Try a few more matrices. I’d like to see one with out an organic/sharp type axis; possibly look into some gestalt aesthetic concepts to define the axis.
   2) Make your class and friends do this with your selections, to see how you compare to a designer baseline.
   3) Make you class do this on their own and see if they find it valuable.

   Great.
   Rford
Ramsey Ford on October 29th, 2008

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